An answering service built for builders

Builders lose fewer calls to genuine emergencies than plumbers or electricians, and more to something arguably worse: a missed call from someone ready to commit to a large job, who rings the next builder on their list when nobody picks up. AllCalls makes sure that call gets answered properly, whether it's a homeowner enquiring about an extension or a subcontractor chasing a delivery.

The calls builders actually get

• New enquiries for extensions, renovations or new builds. Often the caller has done some research and is comparing a few builders. The assistant takes down what they want, roughly where and when, and their contact details, so you can follow up with a proper quote instead of a rushed phone estimate.
• Existing clients checking on a project. Questions about timelines, deliveries or access. It takes a clear message with what the call relates to, so you're not guessing which job it's about when you call back.
• Subcontractors and suppliers. Scheduling, material queries, access arrangements. If you've set up transfer rules for certain people, it can try putting the call straight through during working hours; otherwise it takes a detailed message.
• Planning and building control related calls. It won't interpret regulations or planning status, but it will capture exactly what's being asked so you know what you're dealing with before you call back.
• Cold enquiries and price-shoppers. Not every enquiry turns into a job. It treats every caller the same way regardless, so you don't lose a genuine one by accident.

How urgency is handled

Building work has fewer minute-by-minute emergencies than trades like plumbing or heating, but site safety issues, break-ins or storm damage to an open structure can still need a fast response. You set the rules for what counts as urgent on your jobs, and AllCalls flags anything that matches by push and text notification, rather than leaving it to sit in a message queue.

If a call ever touches on a suspected gas leak, for example during works near an existing gas supply, the assistant tells the caller to leave the area and call the National Gas Emergency number, 0800 111 999, and 999 if anyone's in danger. That rule applies automatically, on every account.

What it won't do

It won't estimate a build cost, interpret planning permission, or commit you to a start date. It takes the information and passes it on, clearly and completely, so the follow-up call is the one that actually wins or loses the job.

Read How much do missed calls really cost UK tradespeople? for a look at what a missed enquiry can mean in lost work.

See how AllCalls works, check pricing, or hear it for yourself. Back to all trades.