MyBuilder vs Rated People for Electricians: 2026 In-Depth Comparison
Which platform delivers better lead quality, lower waste, and higher return on investment for UK electrical contractors? Here is the real data.
Between the two shared directory marketplaces, MyBuilder is generally the safer option because it charges zero monthly subscription fees; you only pay when a customer reviews your profile and explicitly shortlists you. Rated People locks you into monthly membership fees plus individual lead purchases, creating higher risk of negative ROI. However, both platforms suffer from the same fatal flaw: homeowners are actively encouraged to collect 3 to 4 competing quotes.
1. Pricing & Fee Structures Compared
| Feature | MyBuilder | Rated People |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Membership Fee | £0 / month | £30 – £80+ / month |
| Lead Payment Model | Pay only when shortlisted (£5–£35) | Pay to buy lead details (£12–£45) |
| Shortlist Competition | Homeowner shortlists 1 to 3 sparks | Sold to up to 3 competing trades |
| Lead Refund Policy | Strict (refunds only if uncontactable) | Credit refund for bogus phone numbers |
| Consumer Price Sensitivity | Moderate to High | Very High |
2. How MyBuilder Works in Practice
On MyBuilder, homeowners post their job description (e.g. "Replace old fuse board in 3-bed semi"). Contractors browse local jobs and click "Express Interest" with a short introductory pitch.
You pay nothing to express interest. You only pay a shortlist fee (typically £14 to £24 for a consumer unit replacement) if the homeowner reviews your profile and clicks to invite you for a quote.
The Catch: Even after being shortlisted, you are typically competing against 2 other shortlisted electricians. If the homeowner ghosts your messages or decides not to proceed with the work, you rarely get your shortlist fee back.
3. How Rated People Works in Practice
Rated People uses a direct lead-purchase model. When a homeowner posts an inquiry, up to three contractors can immediately purchase the customer’s phone number and address.
The Catch: Because up to three tradespeople buy the lead simultaneously, the race is on. The homeowner’s phone rings three times within 5 minutes. If you are on a ladder or driving your van and call 20 minutes later, the homeowner has often already arranged two site visits and won't answer your call. You still pay for the lead.
We build dedicated, high-speed digital engines that produce 100% exclusive homeowner inquiries directly to your phone. Zero directory commissions.
4. The Real Alternative: Building an Exclusive Digital Pipeline
Whether you use MyBuilder, Rated People, or Checkatrade, you remain on a "borrowed platform". You pay rent to access someone else’s customers.
By contrast, when you own your web platform and pair it with Google Ads and Google Guaranteed LSAs:
- Every lead is 100% exclusive: Nobody else gets the homeowner’s contact details.
- You protect your profit margins: Homeowners contact you because they value your NICEIC credentials and professional brand, not because you were the cheapest quote.
- You build permanent business equity: Your domain authority and Google review asset grow more valuable every single month.
