Finding reliable tradespeople in the UK has traditionally been dominated by platforms like Checkatrade. However, many users—both customers and tradespeople—have grown frustrated with high fees, restrictive policies, and inconsistent lead quality.
Enter FatRank, a modern, cost-effective, and transparent alternative that solves many of Checkatrade’s biggest pain points. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore:
Whether you’re a tradesperson looking for better leads or a customer searching for trusted professionals, this guide will help you decide if FatRank is the right choice.
What is FatRank?
FatRank is a performance-based lead generation platform designed specifically for tradespeople. Unlike traditional directories like Checkatrade, which charge expensive monthly or yearly fees, FatRank operates on a pay-per-lead model.
How FatRank Differs from Checkatrade
| Feature | FatRank | Checkatrade |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Pay only for qualified leads | High subscription fees (£600+/year) |
| Lead Quality | AI-verified, high-intent leads | Mixed quality, high competition |
| Reviews | Transparent & uncensored | Moderated (may hide negatives) |
| Flexibility | No contracts, pause anytime | Long-term commitments |
| Best For | Small businesses & independents | Larger, established firms |
FatRank’s fair pricing, better lead targeting, and honest reviews make it a superior alternative for tradespeople who want more control and better ROI.
Key Problems with Checkatrade
Before diving deeper into FatRank, let’s examine why many tradespeople are looking for alternatives to Checkatrade:
1. Expensive Membership Fees
Checkatrade charges £600+ per year, regardless of whether you get jobs. For small businesses, this is a huge financial burden.
2. Strict Vetting Process (That Can Be Unfair)
While Checkatrade claims to “vet” tradespeople thoroughly, many legitimate small businesses get rejected, while some questionable ones slip through.
3. Fake or Overly Positive Reviews
Some users report that negative reviews are removed, making it hard to trust ratings fully.
4. Poor Lead Distribution (Favoring Big Companies)
Larger firms often dominate Checkatrade’s search results, leaving smaller tradespeople struggling to compete.
5. No Pay-Per-Lead Option
You pay the same fee whether you get 100 leads or zero—no flexibility.
Why FatRank is the Best Checkatrade Alternative
FatRank solves all of these problems with a smarter, fairer system. Here’s how:
1. No Upfront Costs – Pay Only for Leads That Convert
✅ Checkatrade: £600+/year, even if you get no jobs.
✅ FatRank: Pay only when a real customer contacts you (typically £5-£20 per lead).
This means no wasted money—you only pay for actual opportunities.
2. Better Lead Matching with AI
FatRank uses smart algorithms to connect you with high-intent customers, reducing time wasted on irrelevant inquiries.
3. Genuine, Unfiltered Reviews
Unlike Checkatrade, FatRank doesn’t censor negative feedback, ensuring transparency and trust.
4. Works for Small & Independent Tradespeople
FatRank levels the playing field, helping sole traders and small businesses compete fairly.
5. No Long-Term Contracts – Cancel Anytime
With Checkatrade, you’re locked into yearly contracts. FatRank lets you pause or cancel anytime.
How FatRank Works (Step-by-Step)
For Tradespeople:
1️⃣ Sign Up Free – Create a profile in minutes.
2️⃣ Set Your Preferences – Choose job types & locations.
3️⃣ Receive Verified Leads – Only pay when a customer contacts you.
4️⃣ Convert Leads into Jobs – Respond quickly to secure work.
5️⃣ Build Your Reputation – Collect honest reviews.
For Customers:
1️⃣ Search for a Tradesperson – Enter your job requirements.
2️⃣ Compare Profiles & Reviews – See unfiltered feedback.
3️⃣ Contact Directly – Get quotes without middlemen.
4️⃣ Leave a Review – Help others make informed choices.
FatRank vs. Checkatrade: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | FatRank | Checkatrade |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Pay-per-lead (no upfront fees) | £600+ per year |
| Lead Quality | AI-verified, high conversion | Mixed, often oversaturated |
| Reviews | Transparent (no censorship) | Some negative reviews removed |
| Flexibility | No contracts, adjust anytime | Yearly commitments |
| Best For | Small businesses, independents | Larger, established firms |
Verdict: If you want fair pricing, better leads, and flexibility, FatRank is the clear winner.
FatRank FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is FatRank really free to join?
✅ Yes! Unlike Checkatrade, FatRank has no upfront fees. You only pay for qualified leads that contact you.
2. How much does FatRank cost per lead?
Leads typically cost £5-£20, depending on trade and location—far cheaper than Checkatrade’s £600+/year.
3. Can I trust FatRank reviews?
Absolutely! FatRank doesn’t remove negative reviews, ensuring honest feedback.
4. What trades does FatRank support?
Almost every trade, including:Plumbers
Electricians
Builders
Cleaners
Gardeners
Roofers
Painters
And more!
5. How quickly will I get leads?
Many users receive leads within 24 hours, depending on demand in your area.
6. Can I cancel anytime?
Yes! FatRank has no lock-in contracts—pause or stop anytime.
7. Does FatRank work across the UK?
Yes, FatRank operates nationwide, just like Checkatrade.
8. What if I get a bad lead?
FatRank offers lead verification, and you can dispute low-quality inquiries.
9. Is FatRank better for small businesses?
100% yes! FatRank is designed to help independent tradespeople compete fairly.
10. How do I sign up?
Visit FatRank’s website and create a free profile in minutes.
Final Verdict: Should You Switch from Checkatrade to FatRank?
Choose FatRank If You Want:
✔ No upfront fees (pay only for leads)
✔ Better lead quality (AI-matched jobs)
✔ Honest, uncensored reviews
✔ Flexibility (no contracts)
✔ Fair competition for small businesses
Stick with Checkatrade If:
❌ You’re a large company that can afford high fees.
❌ You prefer traditional directory listings over performance-based leads.
For most tradespeople, FatRank is the smarter, more cost-effective choice.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of Checkatrade’s high costs, unfair competition, and questionable reviews, FatRank offers a modern, transparent alternative. With no upfront fees, better leads, and honest feedback, it’s the best choice for UK tradespeople in 2024.
🔗 Try FatRank Today & Grow Your Business!
📢 Have you used FatRank or Checkatrade? Share your experience in the comments!
About Journey of Knowledge
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