4 Best Websites to Find a Tradesperson in the UK

Finding a good tradesperson is not just about finding a name and phone number.

Finding local tradesmen who will even respond is half the battle. Comparing what they say they’ll do and verifying enough information to feel comfortable hiring…that’s the challenge.

If widest range of basic job posting, local matching and quote comparison, then MyJobQuote is the overall leader to begin with in this review.

Checkatrade focuses more on platform inspections and a guarantee, MyBuilder provides an app-led hiring process and Which? Trusted Traders has an endorsement-led directory.

In This Guide

• MyJobQuote: Best Overall for Comparing Local Quotes
• Checkatrade: Best for Platform Checks and a Guarantee
• MyBuilder: Best for App-Led Job Management
• Which? Trusted Traders: Best for Endorsement-Led Searches
• Quick Comparison
• How to Choose a Tradesperson Website
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Verdict

1. MyJobQuote: Best Overall for Comparing Local Quotes

MyJobQuote has a simple concept. Describe the job once and allow local professionals to find you.

Which means it’s helpful for homeowners who wish to get multiple estimates for home improvement jobs without having to call each company separately.

Provide the type of trade needed, where and when it is needed and include a brief description of the job. Your request for a quote is then sent to local trades who are currently online. Up to three traders can “like” your job and contact you to discuss a quote. You can view profiles and organize visits to decide which trader is best for you..

The primary benefit is having the contractor come to you instead of searching through a lengthy directory.

A homeowner looking for someone to remodel their bathroom, for instance, can fill out their project details once and get responses to compare availability, work style and cost.

Useful features include:

• Local matching: job details are used to connect homeowners with relevant nearby trades.
• Profile information: homeowners can review tradespeople before hiring.
• Qualification checks: qualifications displayed on profiles are verified by MyJobQuote.
• Post-job reviews: homeowners can leave feedback after completed work.

If you’re a homeowner looking for the path of least resistance from “I want this job done” to talking to appropriate local tradesmen, then MyJobQuote.co.uk is your best bet.

2. Checkatrade: Best for Platform Checks and a Guarantee

Checkatrade leans towards being directory-led allowing homeowners to search by trade then location.

The main distinction is probably the assurance layer it has around the directory. Tradespeople can only confirm that they have completed all applicable checks from a list of up to 12 categories and are subject to regular rechecking. Jobs are also guaranteed for up to £1,000 when booked via the site, depending on eligibility.

That will make Checkatrade attractive when the platform’s vetting process is key to your decision.

Checkatrade also allow fixed price booking for certain less complex jobs, meaning you don’t have to obtain traditional quotes.

Ideal for homebuyers who want to search through vetted profiles and enjoy another layer of site security.

3. MyBuilder: Best for App-Led Job Management

MyBuilder operates on a job-posting model. Consumers/posters create a post explaining the job they need done. Interested tradespeople then reply to the post. The homeowner then reads the contractors’ profiles and decides whom to contact.

MyBuilder allows homeowners to upload photos/info. receive notifications, message tradespeople and post a review upon completion. Tradespeople also undergo registration checks says MyBuilder, these include ID, company info, certificates of regulated work and skills.

Its good for homeowners who want the searching, talking and job info all in one place electronically.

For instance, a person booking a decorating job on a busy workday can upload photos, track replies and coordinate conversations from one phone instead of over multiple calls and text conversations.

MyBuilder is a credible option for people who like a structured, app-friendly hiring process.

4. Which? Trusted Traders: Best for Endorsement-Led Searches

Which? Trusted Traders is mainly an accreditation scheme and directory which can be searched, not a quote matcher.

All listed traders have been tested and approved by genuine customers, homeworkers review who state “All traders are scored in line with customer reviews, which are verified and moderated”. Customers search for tradesmen by job and area, and can message approved tradesmen directly.

Instead of having many tradespeople bid on a posted job.

Ideal if you like to create your shortlist yourself but want to begin with businesses who have already met the criteria of the vetting scheme.

Quick Comparison

For straightforward quote gathering, MyJobQuote keeps the process especially direct.

How to Choose a Tradesperson Website

Reference checking services can expedite the process. However, they shouldn’t replace due diligence prior to employment.

The Competition and Markets Authority told people not to base decisions on claims like “trusted” or “reliable” alone. It suggested they look at how the platform vets traders, deals with complaints, monitors bad behaviour and verifies reviews.

Before hiring, it is sensible to:

• Compare like-for-like quotes: make sure labour, materials and major costs are described consistently.
• Check relevant qualifications: regulated work may require specific registrations or certifications.
• Review recent profile information: look at completed work, feedback and typical job types.
• Clarify the scope in writing: agree what is included, timings and payment arrangements.
• Do your homework: Platform screening is helpful, but screen the business as well.

The website is the introduction. The final hiring decision still belongs to the homeowner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best website to find a tradesperson in the UK?

If you’re a homeowner who wants to post a job and compare responses from local contractors, MyJobQuote is the overall winner in this category. It works by funneling a job to appropriate local trades and allows the homeowner to select after receiving bids.

Should I use more than one tradesperson website?

May also be useful when the first platform isn’t returning enough viable options for larger / specialist projects. It’s generally easiest to begin with just one solid matching service.

Is using a tradesperson website enough to vet someone?

False. While review sites can offer helpful reviews and verification checks, profiles and ratings, homeowners should always double check key qualifications and meet the tradesperson in person before hiring. CMA suggests consumers look past the platform’s marketing pitches and inquire about its verification, monitoring and review processes.

Final Verdict

All four sites offer to streamline your search for a local tradesman. However each site performs this task differently.

Consider Checkatrade if platform checks and a guarantee are your priority. MyBuilder is best for app-led enquiries and Which? Trusted Traders if you want an endorsed-directory search.

If you’re the majority of homeowners looking for local tradesmen to quote for your job, MyJobQuote is where you should start.

Job-first matching system minimizes manual searching and provides homeowners with an easy path from detailing work to viewing local matches.