Platform Guides
Service Provider Registration & Profile Setup
Complete step-by-step guide for contractors to register, set up their professional profile, upload certifications, and receive work from UK social housing providers.
Overview
Joining the Social Home Service Provider Directory puts your business in front of property managers, housing associations, and local authorities across the UK who need verified tradespeople.
A complete, verified profile is your digital business card. The more comprehensive your profile—including up-to-date insurance and trade certifications—the higher you will rank in search results, leading to more inquiries and framework agreements.
What You Need to Register
Company Information
Your Companies House Registration Number (if a limited company) or Sole Trader details.
Insurance Documents
A digital copy (PDF or photo) of your current Public Liability Insurance certificate.
Trade Certifications
Registration numbers for industry bodies like Gas Safe, NICEIC, or NAPIT.
Payment Details
Your business bank details to receive payments for completed work orders.
Step-by-Step Guide
Create Your Account
Go to the Service Provider signup page. Enter your email, create a secure password, and confirm your email address via the verification link.
Set Up Your Profile
Fill in your business name, operating radius (e.g., 20 miles from your postcode), and select your primary trades (e.g., Electrician, General Maintenance).
Note: Your operating radius determines which property managers can find you in their local searches.
Upload Compliance Documents
Upload your Public Liability Insurance and enter the expiry date. If applicable, add your trade body registration numbers so we can automatically verify them.
Tips for success:
- Ensure document scans are clear and readable.
- Double-check expiry dates before submitting.
Get Verified
Our system runs automated checks on your submitted documents. Once approved, your profile receives a 'Verified' badge and becomes visible in the national directory.
Profile Visibility Parameters
Factors that affect how high you appear in search results:
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Verification Failed
Problem: Your uploaded documents were rejected.
Solution: Ensure the uploaded file is clear, the dates match what you entered, and the document is in your registered business name. Re-upload the corrected document.
Not Receiving Inquiries
Problem: Your profile is live but you aren't getting messages.
Solution: Check your operating radius to ensure it covers enough area. Also, ensure your selected 'Trades' accurately reflect all the services you offer.
Missed Job Notifications
Problem: You aren't receiving email or SMS alerts for new jobs.
Solution: Go to Settings → Notifications and ensure both email and SMS alerts are toggled on. Add our sending address to your email safe sender list.
Security & Privacy
Data Protection
- Your business documents are stored securely via encrypted storage
- Bank details are processed via secure Stripe integrations
- Your direct contact info is only shared with approved clients
Account Security
- Support for Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Suspicious login alerts and prevention
- Strict password requirements
Benefits of Registering
Grow Your Business
More Work
Get discovered by housing associations that manage hundreds of properties.
Free Marketing
Your verified profile acts as a trusted advertisement in the sector.
Streamlined Payments
Invoice directly through the platform for faster payment cycles.
Better Management
One Portal
Manage all your social housing jobs from a single dashboard.
Automated Reminders
Never miss an insurance renewal with our automated alerts.
Clear Instructions
Receive detailed work orders with photos before arriving on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to join?
Creating a basic profile and receiving work orders is completely free for contractors. Premium placement options may be available in the future.
How long does verification take?
Automated checks are instant. If manual review is required for complex documents, it typically takes 1-2 business days.
Do I need to accept every job I'm offered?
No. You can review the details, location, and photos for every inquiry before deciding to accept or decline.
Can my team use my account?
Yes, you can invite sub-users (like your office admin or field engineers) to your company account to help manage jobs and messages.
Support
If you need help setting up your profile:
- • In-App Support: Go to Settings → Help & Support
- • Contact Form: Submit a support request via our contact form