Checkatrade vs MyBuilder vs Buildela vs Rated People: Which Platform is Best for Tradespeople?
Choosing the right platform to connect with customers and grow your trade business can be challenging, especially when you have several options to consider. In this guide, we’ll compare four popular platforms: Checkatrade, MyBuilder, Buildela, and Rated People. Each of these platforms has its strengths, but not all are cost-effective or risk-free for tradespeople. Let’s dive in and see which one is the best fit for your business.
What is Checkatrade?
Checkatrade is a well-established platform that connects homeowners with vetted and trusted tradespeople. It is known for its strong focus on building trust and credibility through background checks and customer reviews. However, to access leads and be visible on the platform, tradespeople must pay a monthly membership fee.
How It Works
- Tradespeople pay a monthly fee to be listed and gain access to leads.
- Homeowners can search for tradespeople, read reviews, and contact them directly.
- A strict vetting process ensures only qualified professionals are listed.
Membership & Fees
- Essentials Bundle: £45+VAT per month.
- Advanced Membership Options: Prices vary depending on location and trade type.
- Additional advertising and visibility upgrades may cost extra.
Target Audience:
- Tradespeople looking to build long-term credibility with verified customer reviews.
- Businesses willing to pay a fixed monthly fee rather than per lead.
What is MyBuilder?
MyBuilder allows tradespeople to find jobs by applying for leads posted by homeowners. However, it operates on a pay-per-lead model, meaning you pay for each lead you receive—whether you win the job or not.
How It Works
- Homeowners post jobs.
- Tradespeople express interest in jobs for free.
- If a homeowner shortlists a tradesperson, they must pay a lead fee to access the customer’s contact details.
What Does Shortlisting Mean on MyBuilder?
- Shortlisting occurs when a homeowner selects a tradesperson they want to contact.
- Once shortlisted, tradespeople must pay for the lead, regardless of whether they secure the job.
- Fees range from £7 to £50 per lead, depending on job size and type.
- Your account can run negative if you get shortlisted but don’t win jobs, leading to unexpected financial risks.
Target Audience:
- Tradespeople who prefer bidding on jobs.
- Those willing to risk paying for leads without job guarantees.
What is Buildela?
Unlike Checkatrade, MyBuilder, and Rated People, Buildela is completely free. It allows tradespeople to receive leads without paying any fees. There are no membership fees, no per-lead charges, and no bidding wars.
How It Works:
- Tradespeople create a free profile and go through a vetting process.
- Once approved, they start receiving leads for free.
- Homeowners connect with tradespeople without lead fees or bidding wars.
Membership & Fees:
- 100% Free. No hidden costs.
Target Audience:
- Tradespeople looking for a free, transparent, and flexible lead generation platform.
- Businesses that want to avoid the financial risks of pay-per-lead systems.
What is Rated People?
Rated People is a pay-per-lead platform where tradespeople purchase access to job leads. However, multiple tradespeople apply for the same job, and only one can win it. This means you pay for leads whether you win the job or not, leading to potential financial losses.
How It Works:
- Homeowners post jobs.
- Tradespeople buy leads to access job details.
- Multiple tradespeople pay for the same job, but only one wins.
Membership & Fees:
- Free to join, but you must pay per lead.
- Lead fees range from £10 to £50.
- Fees range from £7 to £50 per lead, depending on job size and type.
- No refunds for unsuccessful applications, meaning high risk for tradespeople.
Target Audience:
- Tradespeople willing to pay for multiple leads, knowing they may not win the job.
- Businesses that prefer a pay-as-you-go model over fixed membership fees.
Comparison: Checkatrade vs MyBuilder vs Buildela vs Rated People
| Feature | Checkatrade | MyBuilder | Buildela | Rated People |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost to Join | Paid membership (£45+VAT/month) | Free, but pay-per-lead (£7-£50 per lead) | 100% Free | Free, but pay-per-lead (£10-£50 per lead) |
| Lead Generation | Membership-based | Pay-per-lead (shortlisting fees) | Unlimited free leads | Pay-per-lead (competitive bidding) |
| Risk of Paying Without Winning Jobs | Low (fixed cost) | High | None | High |
| Customer Reviews | Verified customer reviews | Customer reviews, not verified | Verified customers, tradespeople are vetted | Customer reviews, no formal verification |
| Lead Quality | High-quality, verified | Varies by job post | Transparent & free | Varies based on job listings |
| Exposure | High (with membership) | Limited (pay to bid) | High exposure, no cost | Limited (pay per lead) |
| Target Market | Businesses wanting fixed costs | Independent tradespeople bidding on jobs | Tradespeople looking for free lead generation | Tradespeople looking for high-volume leads |
Which Platform Is Right for You?
- ✔ Checkatrade: Best for tradespeople who want a fixed monthly fee with verified customer reviews. However, it’s costly compared to alternatives.
- ✔ MyBuilder: Best for tradespeople who prefer bidding on jobs, but the pay-per-lead model is risky.
- ✔ Rated People: Ideal for tradespeople who want a steady stream of job leads, but competition is fierce, and lead fees add up quickly.
- ✔ Buildela: The only platform that is 100% free, making it the best choice for tradespeople who want risk-free, cost-effective lead generation.
Why Buildela is the Best Alternative
If you're looking for a completely free, flexible, and transparent platform that doesn’t charge for leads, Buildela is the best option.
Why Choose Buildela?
- ✅ 100% Free for Tradespeople No membership fees, no per-lead costs.
- ✅ No Hidden Fees Unlike competitors, Buildela has no financial risk
- ✅ No Bidding Wars You get direct job leads without competition.
- ✅ Predictable & Cost-Effective Buildela provides free lead generation, saving you thousands per year
- ✅ High Trust & Quality Verified tradespeople and trusted homeowners.
Final Verdict: Why Choose Buildela?
If you’re tired of paying for leads without job guarantees, Buildela is the best choice. With unlimited free leads, no risk, and no hidden costs, Buildela is the smartest, most cost-effective solution for tradespeople.
🚀 Join Buildela Today and start receiving job leads for free! 🚀
