FrontageFrontage vs Checkatrade & Trade Directories
Directories sell the same lead to 5 competitors. Frontage builds your independent brand with a professional website, portfolio app, and exclusive leads for £49/mo.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Checkatrade | Frontage |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | High monthly fee + pay-per-lead / annual contract | £49/month flat fee |
| Lead Ownership | Shared with 3–5 competing tradesmen | 100% exclusive to you |
| Brand Building | Directory profile on Checkatrade URL | Your own dedicated custom domain & Google rank |
| Customer Price Competition | High — quotes compared side-by-side | Low — direct focus on your quality & portfolio |
| App & Portfolio Manager | ||
| Guaranteed Local SEO Setup |
Stop renting space on someone else's directory. Own your online presence and build a lasting business asset.
100% Commission-Free & Direct
Directory platforms charge heavy subscription fees while continuing to charge for individual lead credits. Frontage gives you unlimited leads for £49/mo.
Own Your Business Asset
If you stop paying Checkatrade, your profile, leads, and reviews disappear. With Frontage, your website and domain remain your company's permanent asset.
No Race to the Bottom
Directories encourage homeowners to post a job and pick the lowest quote. A dedicated site builds trust around your craftsmanship and professionalism.
Zero Admin Headache
Updating your portfolio is as effortless as sending a photo on WhatsApp. We handle all hosting, security, and updates for you.
Where Checkatrade is stronger
Frontage and directories serve different strategies. If you want instant directory traffic without building a brand, Checkatrade might suit your stage.
Checkatrade may be better for you if:
- You are brand new and have 0 existing reputation — Directories like Checkatrade can occasionally provide immediate volume for brand new trades who don't yet have Google reviews or word-of-mouth referrals.
- You rely heavily on directory trust badges — Some homeowners look specifically for directory membership badges. If your entire sales pitch relies on directory vetting, directory platforms offer that specific badge.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Checkatrade | Frontage |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated Custom Domain | ||
| Exclusive Unshared Leads | ||
| Mobile Portfolio App | ||
| Local SEO Optimisation | ||
| No Per-Lead Charges | ||
| Job Lead & Client Management App | ||
| Zero Maintenance / No Developer Needed | ||
| Under £50/month Flat Fee |
Ready to break free from directory fees?
Get your independent trade website up and running in under an hour for £49/month.
Get started now