Construction and builder leads from planning applications
Extensions, conversions and new homes that need planning permission are published on the council register. Area alerts emails you the new applications and decisions near a postcode, so you can use them as construction project leads for the area where you work.
For builders, the useful project types are extensions and conversions, and new homes. Each digest lists the proposal, the address and the recorded outcome, with a link to the council record. Contractors who also take on shop and office work can add commercial and change of use when they set up the alert.
Check recent applications for building work near a postcode
Proposal wording that signals building work
An Area alerts digest for extensions and conversions and new homes lists proposals with wording like this, with the address, the date and a link to the council record.
| Proposal wording | What it indicates |
|---|---|
| Single-storey rear extension | A homeowner adding ground-floor space. Check the plans for size and materials. |
| Two-storey side extension | Larger structural work, often with foundations and a new roof. |
| Loft conversion with rear dormer | Work inside the roof space and a new dormer structure. |
| Erection of 2 dwellings | A small housing scheme, usually with groundworks and services. |
| Conversion of garage to habitable room | Internal alterations and a new front or side wall. |
Marketing for builders
Most builders find work through referrals, local reputation and directory sites. Planning applications add a list of homeowners and developers who have already decided to build, with the address and a description of the work.
- Set your areas around where you can work. Choose a postcode and radius for each area you can reach for a job. Extension work usually suits a short radius; contractors who build small housing schemes may want a wider one.
- Contact approved projects first. Homeowners usually look for a builder once permission is granted. A decision in your digest is a reason to write with a quote offer, while a new application is a chance to offer design-stage advice.
- Write about the type of work. Mention the type of project, such as a rear extension, and nearby work you have completed. Do not quote the application or name the applicant.
- Keep a record of each approach. Note the council reference and the date you wrote, then check the record before you follow up, as an application may have been refused or withdrawn.
Area alerts subscribers can have an introduction letter printed and posted to the address of a matched application for £1.95 a letter. Letters are addressed to the owner or occupier and do not name the applicant. Copy the letter template.
What Area alerts includes
- £29 a month or £290 a year, up to 3 areas.
- Each area is a postcode with a radius of 1 to 25 miles.
- A daily or weekly email with new applications and decisions, sent only when there is something to report, up to 50 updates in each.
- Project types are matched from proposal wording, so read the council record before you contact anyone.
Coverage is incomplete.
Councils that do not publish coordinates for an application are not included in area alerts. Check coverage for your councils.
Digests are sent daily or weekly, not as applications arrive, and each digest lists up to 50 updates.
Get emailed about new planning applications in your area
Area alerts send a daily or weekly email with new applications and decisions near a postcode, filtered by project type. £29 a month, up to 3 areas. Records are limited to the councils we collect.
Set up an area alertRead how to find building work from planning applications before you contact a homeowner.