Platform Guides
How to Use the Service Providers Directory
Complete step-by-step guide to finding, vetting, and managing UK-based contractors and service professionals through the Social Home directory.
Overview
The Service Providers Directory connects property managers and housing associations with verified UK-based contractors. Whether you need a registered gas engineer, an emergency plumber, or a compliance inspector, the directory makes it simple to find trusted professionals.
Every provider in the directory undergoes basic verification. You can review their credentials, see ratings from other social housing providers, and set up framework agreements directly through the platform.
When to Use the Directory
Sourcing New Trades
When you are expanding your portfolio and need reliable contractors in a new geographic area.
Compliance Inspections
When you require certified professionals for Gas Safety, EICR, or HMO compliance checks.
Framework Agreements
When establishing long-term contracts and standard rate cards with preferred suppliers.
Emergency Repairs
When you need rapid response from local tradespeople for urgent out-of-hours maintenance.
Step-by-Step Guide
Search the Directory
Navigate to the 'Service Providers' tab in your back-office dashboard. Enter a trade (e.g., 'Plumber') and location (e.g., 'Birmingham') to view available contractors.
Review Credentials
Click on a provider's profile to view their insurance documents, trade certifications (like Gas Safe or NICEIC), and ratings from other housing providers.
Note: Always check that a provider's insurance matches the requirements of your specific properties.
Send an Inquiry
Use the 'Contact Provider' button to send an initial message. You can describe your typical repair volume and ask for a standard rate card.
Tips for success:
- Be clear about your payment terms (e.g., 30 days net).
- Mention if you require emergency call-out availability.
Establish a Framework Agreement
Once terms are agreed, use the 'Add to Preferred Providers' action. You can upload your framework agreement and set their standard rates within the system for automated work order pricing.
Understanding Provider Verification
What a verification badge means in Social Home:
Troubleshooting Common Issues
No Providers in Area
Problem: Search returns no results for a specific location or trade.
Solution: Try expanding your search radius or using broader trade terms. You can also invite your existing offline contractors to join the platform for free.
Expired Credentials
Problem: A preferred provider's profile shows an expired insurance or trade certificate.
Solution: The system automatically notifies the provider. However, you should hold off on assigning new compliance-critical work until they upload their renewed documents.
Provider Unresponsive
Problem: A provider hasn't responded to your initial inquiry.
Solution: Providers usually respond within 24 hours. If they don't, we recommend reaching out to other highly-rated providers in the directory to ensure your repairs aren't delayed.
Security & Privacy
Data Protection
- Your contact details are hidden until you initiate contact
- All messages are encrypted and stored securely
- Tenant details are never shared during initial inquiries
Vetting Assurance
- Providers are required to submit valid ID and insurance
- Certifications are periodically spot-checked
- Suspicious accounts are immediately flagged and removed
Benefits of the Directory
For Property Managers
Save Time
No more calling around or browsing search engines for reliable tradespeople.
Ensure Compliance
Easily verify that contractors have the required certifications for specific compliance jobs.
Quality Control
Rely on ratings and reviews from peers in the social housing sector.
For Your Organisation
Cost Management
Compare rate cards from multiple providers to ensure competitive pricing.
Risk Mitigation
Reduce liability by ensuring all active contractors hold valid public liability insurance.
Centralised Procurement
Keep all your preferred supplier frameworks and rate cards in one system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cost money to use the directory?
No, browsing the directory and contacting service providers is completely free for Social Home users.
Can I invite my existing contractors?
Yes! You can send an invite link to your current contractors. It's free for them to create a basic profile and manage your work orders.
How are the reviews verified?
Reviews can only be left by housing providers who have successfully assigned a work order and paid the invoice through or alongside the Social Home system.
What happens if a contractor's insurance expires?
The contractor receives automated reminders. If it expires, their profile badge changes to reflect this, and you will see a warning before assigning new work orders.
Support
If you need help with the Service Providers Directory:
- • In-App Support: Go to Settings → Help & Support
- • Contact Form: Submit a support request via our contact form