How to Write a Letter That Gets You Building Jobs

18/08/2025

In today’s competitive market, tradespeople can’t rely on word-of-mouth alone. The most effective way to stand out is by reaching homeowners before your competitors. One proven method is sending a clear, professional letter that gets you building jobs. A well-written letter shows credibility, demonstrates local knowledge, and invites the homeowner to take the next step with you.

With BuildAlert, you can find live planning applications in your area and send branded letters for just £2. These aren’t cold leads—they’re warm, motivated homeowners already planning extensions, loft conversions, or major renovations.

What Makes a Letter Win Building Jobs?

The secret is balancing professionalism with approachability. Homeowners want someone skilled but also personable and trustworthy. Your letter should include:

A clear introduction – State who you are and your trade (e.g. “Local builder specialising in extensions and loft conversions”).
Relevant experience – Mention similar projects in their area.
Local knowledge – Reference their neighbourhood or planning application type.
A call to action – Invite them to arrange a site visit or call.

Trade-Specific Examples

Builders: Highlight completed extensions, structural works, and project management.
Roofers: Mention re-roofing, Velux installations, or heritage roofing experience.
Electricians: Talk about rewires, lighting design, or EV charger installations.
Plasterers: Emphasise smooth finishes, MF ceilings, and reliable turnarounds.

Tips for Writing Strong Letters

Keep it to one page—busy homeowners won’t read long letters.
Use plain English. Avoid jargon.
Add one photo or testimonial for credibility.
Personalise it by mentioning the area or project type.

Why BuildAlert Letters Work

Unlike cold calls or leaflet drops, BuildAlert connects you with homeowners who have already submitted a planning application. These are genuine, active projects. By sending a £2 branded letter through our system, you make a professional first impression before others even know the job exists. One of our users in Manchester secured a £40k extension after sending just three letters.

To learn how builders can maintain a steady flow of enquiries, see our guide on getting a steady stream of local leads in 2025.

Step-by-Step: Sending a Winning Letter with BuildAlert

Register with BuildAlert and set your preferred radius.
Filter planning applications by project type (e.g. extensions, lofts, roofing).
Choose your lead and draft a tailored letter.
Send it for £2 and track responses.
Follow up within a week with a call or second letter.

Get Started Today

Writing effective letters is easier than you think. With BuildAlert, you’ll know exactly who to contact, what to say, and how to make a strong first impression. Start sending letters that win building jobs today, and grow your pipeline with qualified, motivated leads. Explore our Pricing page to see how affordable it is to get started.

FAQs: Writing Letters for Building Jobs

1) Do letters really win building jobs in 2025?

Yes. A targeted, well-written letter sent to a homeowner who has just applied for planning permission is one of the most effective ways to secure new work. Tradespeople using BuildAlert regularly report high conversion rates from letters.

2) How should I personalise my letter?

Reference the type of project they’ve applied for (e.g. “loft conversion” or “rear extension”) and mention the local area. This shows you’ve done your homework and aren’t just sending a generic flyer. For more guidance, see the Planning Portal’s homeowner projects guide.

3) What’s better—leaflets or letters?

Leaflets are often ignored as junk mail. A personalised letter, addressed directly to the homeowner, feels more professional and trustworthy. Combined with BuildAlert’s Construction Leads, letters consistently outperform leaflets in winning jobs.

4) Should I include prices in my letter?

No—avoid quoting prices without seeing the site. Instead, invite the homeowner to arrange a free site visit. This gives you a chance to build rapport and properly assess the scope before quoting.

5) How quickly should I send a letter after spotting a lead?

Speed is key. Send your letter within 48 hours of the application appearing. This gives you a head start over competitors and maximises your chance of being the first builder they speak to.