Do MyBuilder Leads Cost Too Much?

For tradespeople in the UK, MyBuilder is a well-known name in the lead generation space.

The platform offers a unique bidding-style model that appeals to many, but not everyone sees consistent results, and the cost of securing jobs can feel unpredictable.

In this guide, we outline how MyBuilder works, share insights from public trade commentary, and explore lower-risk alternatives for generating new business.

1. How MyBuilder Works

MyBuilder connects homeowners posting job requests with relevant tradespeople. Unlike traditional pay-per-lead platforms, MyBuilder works on a "pay if shortlisted" basis:

• You express interest in a posted job
• The homeowner reviews applicants
• If you're shortlisted (i.e., the homeowner shows interest), you're charged a fee to receive their details

While this model offers more control than platforms that charge upfront per lead, there's still no guarantee of a reply, job, or income and the charges can add up quickly if you're shortlisted often but win few jobs.

This is where many trades get burned: you pay when shortlisted, then you're in a race to quote.

And because speed is everything, even a short delay can mean the homeowner hires someone else — before you've even had a chance to quote.

2. What Tradespeople Are Saying

ToolTalk, a review site for trade professionals, has a number of reviews from tradespeople who seem to be facing similar issues - poor lead quality:

"I've had countless jobs where I can get no answer from the supposedly client no matter how many times I ring, then eventually after a few weeks the number goes deadline."

3. Key Takeaways from Public Commentary

Summarising insights from the reviews on ToolTalk and broader feedback:

• Lead quality is poor: Numerous reports of low-quality leads and no response from the homeowner
• Drives prices down: Trades frustrated that homeowners just shop around for the cheapest quote
• Not ideal as a sole lead source: Even proponents suggest using it alongside other outreach

These comments reflect user sentiment, not official platform policy, and may not represent every user's outcome.

4. Alternative Approaches to Consider

If you're spending heavily on shared leads with mixed results, it may be time to diversify or shift your lead strategy.

1. Convert the Traffic You're Already Getting

One of the most valuable (and most overlooked) sources of leads is the traffic you already get to your website.

Think about it: the time and money you put into Google reviews, your website, Facebook, Instagram and paid ads all pushes people to your site.

But if visitors can't get quick answers, most won't turn into enquiries.

Kantr fixes that.

Kantr is an AI sales assistant that sits on your website and replies instantly. So you capture enquiries while the visitor is still on the page, when their intent is highest.

With Kantr, you're always first. Even when you're on-site.

2. Local SEO and Google Business Profile

Many successful trades rank in Google Maps for "[your trade] near me."

This free visibility drives organic leads and builds long-term trust through reviews and consistent presence.

Google Maps search is a huge driver of traffic so don't neglect it.

3. Referral Networks and Social Proof

Never underestimate word-of-mouth and a strong review trail, especially on Facebook.

Many households rely on Facebook to find and verify trades and the value of good reviews can't be overstated.

Add photos, contact details and post every now and again so that visitors can see your work and know you're actively working in the area.

5. Final Thoughts

MyBuilder has helped many tradespeople win work — particularly those who can quote fast, work flexibly, and compete on price. But if you're finding the shortlist charges hard to manage or the competition unsustainable, you're not alone.

If you're already investing in reviews, SEO, social media, or ads, the fastest win is usually converting more of the traffic you already get — because if you can respond instantly, you're dramatically more likely to win the job.