Is Checkatrade Worth the Cost?

When you're considering a platform to help grow your business and generate leads, Checkatrade is often one of the first names that come up. However, with membership fees and extra charges stacking up quickly, it’s important to ask: Is Checkatrade worth the cost? In this guide, we'll explore Checkatrade's pricing structure and compare it to the value offered by Buildela, a free platform that offers a flexible, transparent pricing model with no hidden fees.

Published: 01 Jan, 2025
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Checkatrade Membership Costs and Benefits

Checkatrade has several membership tiers, each offering varying levels of benefits. Here’s an overview of Checkatrade's pricing structure:

Checkatrade Membership Tiers: Are They Worth the Cost?

Approved Affiliate

£36/month or £432/year
  1. No leads are provided, but you get business cards and van vinyl prints to promote your business.
  2. Limited to one trade and a set number of postcodes.
  3. 12-month commitment.
  4. If you don’t need leads and just want to advertise your business, this could be a budget-friendly option. However, without leads, you’ll have to drive your own business through other marketing channels.

Lite

£85.20/month or £1,022/year
  1. 84 leads per year (7 per month). Limited to one trade and specific postcodes.
  2. Leads are limited, and you may need to purchase extra credits for more visibility
  3. 12-month commitment
  4. This plan offers a decent number of leads, but the extra charges for additional leads and locations could make it less cost-effective for small businesses.

Standard

£126/month or £1,512/year
  1. 168 leads per year (14 per month). More visibility and exposure.
  2. Limited to one trade and specific postcodes. Additional charges for extra leads or locations.
  3. 12-month commitment.
  4. If you're ready to scale, this plan could help you get more leads, but the extra charges could add up quickly.

Pro

£216/month or £2,592/year
  1. 336 leads per year (28 per month). Maximum exposure and priority placement.
  2. Still limited to one trade and specific postcodes. Extra costs apply for more leads or locations.
  3. 12-month commitment.
  4. For large businesses or those that need a constant flow of leads, this could work. But it still has limitations in terms of flexibility and cost.
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Are Checkatrade’s Costs Justified?

The pricing for Checkatrade can quickly add up, especially if you need additional leads or want to expand your service area. The 12-month contract commitment can also be a deterrent, as you’re locked into paying for the full year even if you decide the platform isn’t the right fit for you.

In addition to the base fees, Checkatrade also charges for extra leads, location coverage, and additional services. This can make it an expensive option, especially for smaller businesses or those just starting out.

Buildela: A Completely Free Alternative to Checkatrade

Unlike Checkatrade, Buildela is completely free for tradespeople. You won’t have to worry about paying membership fees or dealing with hidden charges. Here’s why Buildela offers more value:

  • Free Membership: Buildela is completely free for tradespeople with no upfront costs. You can create a profile, get leads, and start booking jobs without spending a penny.
  • No Long-Term Contracts: With Buildela, there are no 12-month commitments. You’re free to use the platform without the worry of being locked into a contract.
  • Target Multiple Trades and Locations: Buildela allows you to target multiple trades and locations under a single, flexible account—no need to pay extra for each service area or additional trade.
  • No Hidden Fees: Unlike Checkatrade, there are no surprise charges for leads, location changes, or extra services. Buildela is clear and transparent in its offerings.

Whether Checkatrade is Worth the Cost

Checkatrade membership fees range from £36 per month for the "Approved Affiliate" plan, up to £216 per month for the "Pro" plan. These charges vary depending on your trade and location.

Yes. In addition to the membership fee, Checkatrade charges for extra leads, location coverage, and additional services. If you need more flexibility, these charges can quickly add up.

Checkatrade requires a 12-month minimum contract. If you cancel early, you will still be responsible for paying the remaining months.

Each Checkatrade membership is typically limited to one trade and a set number of postcodes. You will need to pay extra if you want to cover more trades or expand your service area.

Why Buildela is the Better Choice for Tradespeople

If you’re looking for a more cost-effective and flexible way to grow your business, Buildela is an excellent alternative to Checkatrade. With zero membership fees, the ability to target multiple trades and locations, and no long-term contracts or hidden charges, Buildela helps you stay in control of your business and expenses.

Start building your business with Buildela today—completely free of charge—and experience a more transparent, flexible, and rewarding way to find leads and grow your business.