Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Review 1 by Partners

Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Review

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Based on checking the website, Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk appears to be a legitimate service offering web design and development for small businesses and tradesmen in the UK. They focus on affordability, transparency, and providing essential services like hosting and management in their packages. However, several critical elements typically found on trusted, professional web development sites are missing, which raises concerns regarding their overall transparency and client assurance.

Overall Review Summary:

  • Service Offerings: Web design, WordPress development, website cloning, web management, maintenance, SEO.
  • Target Audience: Small businesses, tradesmen, startups in the UK.
  • Key Selling Points: Affordability, building the website before invoicing, free consultation, free logo, first year hosting and management included, client ownership of the website.
  • Missing Information: No clear pricing structure, no demonstrable portfolio with live links, no client testimonials or reviews (only a “satisfied customers” counter stuck at 0%), no team information, no clear terms and conditions or privacy policy links visible on the homepage.
  • Ethical Consideration: The services offered (web design, development, SEO) are permissible and can be highly beneficial for businesses seeking an online presence. However, the lack of transparency in crucial areas like pricing, portfolio, and legal documentation is a significant red flag for a professional service.

While Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk presents itself as a budget-friendly option, the absence of crucial information like a public portfolio, detailed pricing, and clear legal terms makes it difficult to fully assess their reliability and quality of work. For any business, especially small ones, clarity and trust are paramount when investing in a critical service like website development. The claim of “satisfied customers 0%” and “websites made 0” on their homepage, despite claiming to serve many tradesmen, is a glaring inconsistency that needs immediate attention from the provider. Without these foundational elements, it’s challenging to recommend them wholeheartedly.

Best Alternatives for Website Development & Digital Presence:

For businesses seeking reliable and transparent web development services, focusing on providers with established portfolios, clear pricing, and robust client support is essential. Here are some highly regarded alternatives that align with ethical business practices and transparency:

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  • Squarespace

    • Key Features: All-in-one platform for websites, online stores, and portfolios; award-winning design templates; integrated SEO tools; 24/7 customer support; domain registration; e-commerce functionality.
    • Average Price: £13 – £37 per month (billed annually), depending on the plan.
    • Pros: Excellent aesthetics and user experience; intuitive drag-and-drop builder; strong mobile responsiveness; reliable hosting.
    • Cons: Less flexibility for deep customisation compared to WordPress; app integrations can be limited.
  • WordPress.com (Managed WordPress Hosting)

    • Key Features: User-friendly interface, managed hosting, vast plugin ecosystem, strong SEO capabilities, scalable for various business sizes, daily backups, security features.
    • Average Price: £3 – £35 per month (billed annually) for various plans.
    • Pros: Highly flexible and customisable; massive community support; excellent for content-heavy sites and blogs; good for SEO.
    • Cons: Can have a steeper learning curve for beginners compared to drag-and-drop builders; maintaining themes and plugins can require some technical knowledge.
  • Shopify (E-commerce Focused)

    • Key Features: Comprehensive e-commerce platform; robust inventory management; secure payment processing; marketing tools; app store for extended functionality; 24/7 support.
    • Average Price: £25 – £259 per month (billed annually), plus transaction fees.
    • Pros: Best-in-class for online stores; incredibly easy to set up and manage products; scalable for growing businesses.
    • Cons: Primarily for e-commerce, not ideal for simple informational websites; transaction fees can add up if not on specific plans.
  • Wix

    • Key Features: Drag-and-drop website builder; extensive template library; Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) for quick site creation; app market for added features; built-in SEO tools.
    • Average Price: £10 – £30 per month (billed annually) for premium plans.
    • Pros: Very user-friendly for beginners; huge variety of design options; excellent for creative businesses and portfolios.
    • Cons: Once a template is chosen, it’s difficult to switch; less robust for large-scale e-commerce compared to Shopify.
  • Webflow

    • Key Features: Visual web design platform for professional designers and developers; highly customisable; integrated CMS; e-commerce capabilities; no-code animation tools.
    • Average Price: £15 – £40 per month for site plans, plus account plans for advanced features.
    • Pros: Unparalleled design flexibility; clean code output; powerful CMS for dynamic content; excellent for bespoke designs.
    • Cons: Steeper learning curve for those without design/development experience; can be more expensive for basic sites.
  • Hostinger Website Builder

    • Key Features: Affordable pricing, intuitive drag-and-drop builder, AI tools for logo and content generation, free domain and SSL certificate, e-commerce functionality.
    • Average Price: £2 – £10 per month (often with promotional pricing).
    • Pros: Very budget-friendly; easy to use; good for quick site launches; offers a decent set of features for the price.
    • Cons: Less advanced features and customisation compared to more established builders; customer support can sometimes be slower.
  • Fiverr Pro (For custom development by verified professionals)

    • Key Features: Access to top-tier, vetted freelancers for custom web development, highly project-specific, diverse skill sets available, milestone-based payments.
    • Average Price: Varies widely, typically from £500 to several thousand pounds depending on project complexity.
    • Pros: Get a bespoke website tailored to exact needs; direct communication with developers; quality assurance with Pro sellers.
    • Cons: Requires active project management; cost can be higher than DIY builders; finding the right freelancer takes effort.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Table of Contents

cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of simplicity, bordering on minimalist. The site aims to convey its core message: “creating affordable websites for small businesses.” It quickly highlights its primary services: Web Design, WordPress Website, Website Cloning, Web Development, Website Management, and Website Maintenance. The headline “LOOKING FOR A CHEAP WEBSITE?” directly addresses its target audience, suggesting a solution to the often-high costs associated with professional web services in the UK.

Initial Impressions and Value Proposition

The website’s primary value proposition revolves around affordability and a unique “build before invoicing” model, which is certainly eye-catching. This approach aims to build trust by allowing clients to see the work before committing financially. They claim to include the first year’s hosting and management, and assure clients of full website ownership. This is a crucial point, as some less reputable agencies might tie clients into proprietary platforms or hold domains hostage. The site mentions serving “many tradesmen and small businesses,” listing examples like electricians, plumbers, and beauticians, which paints a picture of their typical clientele.

Missing Key Information

However, a critical review reveals several significant omissions that detract from the professional credibility one expects from a web development agency.

  • No Clear Pricing: Despite “cheap” being in their name and central to their pitch, there’s no transparent pricing on the homepage or easily navigable pages. This is a major red flag. Most reputable agencies, even those offering custom solutions, provide ballpark figures, package tiers, or at least a clear “request a quote” process that outlines what influences the cost. The absence of this forces potential clients into direct contact without any prior cost expectation.
  • Lack of Demonstrable Portfolio: While they mention having “created” websites for various trades, there’s no visible portfolio with live links to their work. This is perhaps the most glaring omission for a web design and development company. How can a potential client assess the quality, design aesthetic, or functionality of their output without seeing actual examples? The “Portfolio” link in the navigation leads nowhere.
  • Zero Customer Metrics: The section “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS 0%”, “WEBSITES MANAGED 0”, “WEBSITES MADE 0”, and “WEBSITES HOSTED 0” is alarming. If these are dynamic counters meant to update, they are clearly malfunctioning. If they are static, it completely undermines their claim of having served “many tradesmen.” This contradictory information raises serious questions about their current operational status or transparency.
  • No Client Testimonials: Beyond the broken counters, there are no textual testimonials or reviews from past clients. Trust signals like genuine client feedback are paramount in service-based industries.

cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Features (and Lack Thereof)

Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk outlines several features and services they offer, aiming to cover the full spectrum of web presence needs for small businesses. While the list of services is comprehensive, the details surrounding them often fall short.

Core Service Offerings

The site lists the following services: Themeghnatandoori.co.uk Review

  • Website Design: Emphasises clean, fresh, and uniquely designed sites, adherence to World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) accessibility standards, and cross-browser testing.
  • Website Development: General offering for “any kind of business or industry.”
  • SEO Optimization: Focus on “on-page and off-page optimization” to improve search engine rankings, with a somewhat simplified explanation of educating “the robot.”
  • Website Management: Keeping existing websites updated and “safe from cyber attacks.”
  • Website Maintenance: Addressing issues or updates for existing sites.
  • Website Cloning: Moving existing websites to a WordPress platform to save costs, particularly for those tied into contracts.

Included in All Packages

They list several “no extra cost” inclusions:

  • Free Consultation: Standard for most agencies.
  • Free Logo for Your Business: A potentially valuable addition for startups, though the quality and design process for this “free logo” are not detailed.
  • Free Help and Management: Vague, but presumably tied into the first year’s hosting and management.
  • Updates & Improvements: Also vague, but implies ongoing care.
  • Monthly Maintenance Service: This duplicates the “Website Maintenance” service and is listed as an inclusion.

Inconsistencies and Missing Information in Features

Despite these listed features, the website lacks the depth of information that would instill confidence.

  • Vague Descriptions: Descriptions for services like “Website Development” are very generic, offering no insight into their approach, technologies used, or typical project scope.
  • “Free” Logo Quality: While a free logo is a nice perk, professional branding is crucial. Details on the design process for this free logo are absent, leaving questions about its quality and suitability for a business.
  • Security Claims: They mention keeping sites “safe from cyber attacks” but offer no specifics on their security protocols, firewalls, or update schedules, which are critical for website integrity.
  • SEO Methodology: The explanation of SEO is simplistic (“educate the robot”). A professional SEO service would elaborate on keyword research, content strategy, technical SEO, and reporting.

cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Pros & Cons

A thorough assessment of Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk reveals a mix of potential advantages and significant drawbacks. For businesses, especially small ones looking to establish an online presence, understanding these points is crucial before making a decision.

Potential Pros

While the website leaves much to be desired in terms of transparency, certain aspects could be appealing to a budget-conscious small business owner.

  • Stated Affordability: The primary draw is the promise of “cheap websites.” For startups with limited capital, this could be a major factor. The site explicitly states they are “very affordable/reasonable.”
  • “Build Before Invoicing” Model: This is a bold and trust-building proposition. Being able to see the website before paying can significantly reduce risk for the client, ensuring they are satisfied with the initial design and functionality before any money changes hands. This is highly unusual in the industry and, if genuinely offered, is a significant advantage.
  • Full Website Ownership: The assurance that clients “completely own your website” and “can take it anywhere you want” is a positive. This prevents vendor lock-in, a common concern where agencies might restrict a client’s ability to move their website to another provider.
  • First Year Hosting and Management Included: This simplifies the initial setup process and reduces immediate overhead costs for the client, bundling essential services into the main package.
  • Free Consultation and Logo: These additional perks can be beneficial for nascent businesses looking to economize on initial setup costs.
  • UK-Based Focus: For businesses operating specifically in the UK, a local provider might offer a better understanding of the market, local SEO nuances, and easier communication.

Significant Cons

The drawbacks largely revolve around a severe lack of transparency and professionalism, which are critical for any service provider dealing with a business’s online presence. Workspace-ergonomics.co.uk Review

  • Lack of Transparent Pricing: This is the biggest red flag. A company explicitly marketing “cheap websites” should have at least some form of public pricing, even if it’s package-based or a starting rate. The absence creates uncertainty and forces engagement without clear cost expectations.
  • No Live Portfolio/Examples of Work: For a web design and development company, a visible portfolio is non-negotiable. The inability to review past projects means potential clients cannot assess the quality, design capabilities, or technical proficiency of the agency. The “Portfolio” link in their navigation leads nowhere.
  • Conflicting “Client Statistics”: The counters showing “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS 0%”, “WEBSITES MANAGED 0”, “WEBSITES MADE 0”, and “WEBSITES HOSTED 0” are incredibly damaging. This directly contradicts their claims of serving “many tradesmen” and fundamentally undermines their credibility. This could be a technical error, but it’s a critical one.
  • Absence of Client Testimonials/Reviews: Genuine social proof is vital. Without testimonials, trust is difficult to build, especially when combined with the zero-value counters.
  • No “About Us” Section or Team Information: There’s no page detailing who is behind Cheap Websites UK, their experience, or their team members. This lack of transparency about the people operating the business is a significant concern for building trust.
  • Missing Legal Pages (Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy): Standard business websites, especially those collecting contact information, are legally required to have clear Terms and Conditions, a Privacy Policy, and often a Cookie Policy. Their absence on the homepage or through accessible links is a serious oversight and a legal risk.
  • Generic Service Descriptions: The descriptions of their services are very high-level and generic, providing little insight into their processes, technologies, or specific methodologies (e.g., for SEO).
  • Unlinked Navigation Items: Several navigation links, such as “About,” “Services,” “Portfolio,” and various solution sub-menus like “Web Design,” lead to the same homepage or nowhere at all (marked with ‘#’). This indicates a poorly constructed or incomplete website.

cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Alternatives

Given the significant transparency issues and lack of crucial information on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk, exploring robust and reputable alternatives is essential for any business serious about its online presence. The web development landscape offers numerous options, ranging from DIY website builders to full-service agencies, each with its own advantages. The key is to choose a platform or service that provides clarity, proven results, and ethical business practices.

Here are some established and highly-regarded alternatives, categorised by their primary approach, that offer much greater transparency and reliability:

DIY Website Builders (For Budget-Conscious & Hands-On)

These platforms empower individuals and small businesses to create and manage their own websites with relative ease, often without needing coding knowledge. They provide templates, drag-and-drop interfaces, and integrated hosting.

  • Squarespace

    • Ideal For: Designers, artists, photographers, small businesses prioritizing aesthetics and a polished look. Excellent for portfolios and simple e-commerce.
    • Key Differentiators: Known for elegant, modern templates; strong built-in SEO tools; excellent customer support. Transparent tiered pricing.
    • Why it’s better: Provides a complete solution with clear features and costs upfront. You see exactly what you’re getting and can easily manage it yourself.
  • Wix App-elec.co.uk Review

    • Ideal For: Small businesses, freelancers, and individuals who want maximum design flexibility with a drag-and-drop interface.
    • Key Differentiators: Offers a huge variety of templates; Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) can build a site for you; extensive app market for added functionality. Transparent pricing.
    • Why it’s better: Extremely user-friendly with a vast array of options. You can start for free and upgrade as needed, understanding the costs involved.
  • Hostinger Website Builder

    • Ideal For: Those on a very tight budget needing a quick, simple website with basic functionality.
    • Key Differentiators: Very affordable pricing, simple drag-and-drop interface, AI tools for content and logos.
    • Why it’s better: Clear, low-cost entry point with included hosting and domain. More transparent about what you get for your money.

Managed WordPress Hosting (For Scalability & Customisation)

For businesses that need the power and flexibility of WordPress without the hassle of server management, managed hosting providers handle the technical heavy lifting.

  • WordPress.com

    • Ideal For: Blogs, content-heavy websites, and small businesses needing a scalable platform without managing a server.
    • Key Differentiators: Official managed WordPress service; handles updates, security, and backups; tiered plans for different needs.
    • Why it’s better: Provides a reliable, secure, and actively managed environment for WordPress, backed by the creators of the platform. Clear features and pricing.
  • Kinsta (Premium Managed WordPress)

    Kinsta Prindo.co.uk Review

    • Ideal For: Growing businesses, e-commerce sites, and high-traffic blogs that demand speed, security, and top-tier support.
    • Key Differentiators: Google Cloud infrastructure, daily backups, robust security, expert WordPress support, built-in performance optimisation.
    • Why it’s better: While more expensive, Kinsta offers enterprise-level performance and support, ensuring your site is always fast and secure. Full transparency on features.

E-commerce Specific Platforms (For Online Stores)

If selling products online is the primary goal, dedicated e-commerce platforms offer specialised tools for inventory, payments, shipping, and marketing.

  • Shopify
    • Ideal For: Businesses of all sizes looking to sell products online, from small boutiques to large retailers.
    • Key Differentiators: Comprehensive e-commerce features, secure payment gateway, extensive app store, robust inventory management, 24/7 support.
    • Why it’s better: The industry standard for online stores, providing all the tools you need to run a successful e-commerce business with clear pricing and capabilities.

Custom Development & Freelance Marketplaces (For Bespoke Solutions)

For complex projects or highly specific needs, engaging a professional web development agency or a vetted freelancer is the way to go.

  • Fiverr Pro

    • Ideal For: Businesses seeking a custom website design or specific development tasks, with access to highly-rated, vetted professionals.
    • Key Differentiators: Access to top-tier freelancers, project-based pricing, quality assurance through Fiverr’s vetting process.
    • Why it’s better: Offers a way to commission bespoke work from proven experts, with more transparency on the freelancer’s past work and reviews than Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk.
  • Upwork

    • Ideal For: Businesses looking for a wide range of web development talent, from front-end to back-end, on a project or hourly basis.
    • Key Differentiators: Large pool of global talent, ability to interview and vet candidates, secure payment system, milestone tracking.
    • Why it’s better: Provides a structured platform to find, hire, and manage freelance web developers, with transparent profiles, portfolios, and client reviews.

How to Cancel Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Subscription (Hypothetical)

Given the lack of detailed information on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk’s website, particularly regarding terms of service, subscriptions, or a client dashboard, any advice on cancellation is purely hypothetical and based on industry standards. This absence of clear policy is itself a significant concern for potential customers. Mayohorsecomfort.co.uk Review

The Missing Cancellation Process

On a typical professional website development and hosting service, you would expect to find:

  • A dedicated “Billing” or “Account Settings” section within a client portal where you can manage your subscriptions.
  • Clear terms and conditions outlining cancellation policies, notice periods, and any associated fees.
  • Information on data retention or website transfer procedures post-cancellation.
  • A specific contact method (e.g., email address, support ticket system) for cancellation requests.

None of this information is readily available on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk’s homepage. The site only provides a “Contact Us” form and a direct email link.

Hypothetical Steps Based on Industry Norms

If you were a client of Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk and needed to cancel, the most likely steps, based on how most reputable services operate, would be:

  1. Review Any Agreement or Invoice: Look at any contract, proposal, or invoice you received from Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk. This document should ideally contain terms related to service length, renewal, and cancellation policies. Pay close attention to any notice periods required before cancellation (e.g., 30 days).
  2. Contact Support Directly: Since there’s no evident client portal or dedicated cancellation page, your primary method would be to contact them through their provided “Contact Us” form or the direct email address mentioned on their site.
    • Subject Line: Make it clear, something like “Cancellation Request – Your Business Name – Domain Name.”
    • Body: Clearly state your intention to cancel services (web design, hosting, management, etc.). Include your business name, website URL, and any client ID you might have. Ask for confirmation of cancellation and details on when the service will cease.
    • Request Website Files/Database: If you wish to migrate your website elsewhere, explicitly request all website files (including themes, plugins, images) and the database (usually a .sql file). Inquire about the process for transferring your domain name.
  3. Document Everything: Keep a record of all communications, including dates, times, and the content of emails or messages sent and received. This is crucial for any potential disputes.
  4. Check for Automatic Renewals: If you provided credit card details, ensure they confirm that any recurring payments will be stopped. Check your bank statements after the cancellation period to confirm no further charges are made.
  5. Be Prepared for Data Transfer: If you own your domain, ensure you have access to its registrar account. If Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk registered the domain for you, clarify how transfer can occur, or if they can simply point it to new hosting.

The Problem of Undefined Terms

The absence of clear cancellation terms and processes on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk’s website is a significant drawback. It creates uncertainty and potential friction for clients who might need to terminate their services. Reputable companies clearly define these processes to ensure a smooth transition for clients and maintain transparency.

cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Pricing (The Unseen Cost)

One of the most striking aspects of Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk, especially given its name, is the complete absence of any public pricing information. For a service that explicitly targets clients seeking “cheap websites” and claims to offer “very affordable/reasonable” prices, this lack of transparency is a major red flag. Plsgroup.co.uk Review

The Opaque Pricing Model

Instead of displaying packages, tiers, or even a starting price point, the website funnels all enquiries through a “Contact Us” form. This means potential clients cannot:

  • Compare costs with competitors without initiating contact.
  • Budget effectively for their website project.
  • Understand what specific features are included at different price points.

They mention “all of our packages,” implying tiered offerings, but no details are provided about what these packages entail or their respective costs. The only cost-related assurance is the “build your website before invoicing you once you’re happy” promise, which addresses payment terms rather than the actual price.

Why Transparent Pricing Matters

In the world of web services, transparency in pricing is crucial for several reasons:

  • Building Trust: Clearly laid out pricing demonstrates honesty and allows potential clients to make informed decisions. It suggests the company stands by its value proposition.
  • Managing Expectations: Public pricing helps manage client expectations regarding what they get for their money, reducing potential friction later on.
  • Efficiency: It allows potential clients to self-qualify. If a service is outside their budget, they won’t waste their time or the provider’s.
  • Industry Standard: Most reputable web design agencies, especially those targeting small businesses, either have fixed packages or provide clear guidelines on how they quote projects (e.g., hourly rates, project-based pricing, features influencing cost). Companies like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify (as mentioned in alternatives) all have clear, publicly available pricing structures.

The “Cheap” Dilemma

The company’s name, “Cheap Websites UK,” suggests a focus on competitive pricing. However, without actual prices, it’s impossible to verify if their services are genuinely competitive or simply a marketing hook. What one person considers “cheap” might be overpriced for another, especially if the quality or features are not clearly defined.

Hypothetical Cost Factors (Based on Industry Norms)

While Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk doesn’t reveal its pricing, typical factors that influence website design and development costs include: Miteratraining.co.uk Review

  • Number of Pages: Simple brochure sites often cost less than multi-page websites.
  • Functionality: E-commerce capabilities, booking systems, custom forms, member areas, and integrations significantly increase complexity and cost.
  • Design Complexity: Bespoke designs are more expensive than template-based solutions.
  • Content Creation: Whether the agency provides copywriting, photography, or video services.
  • SEO Services: Ongoing SEO requires additional investment.
  • Maintenance & Support: Post-launch support, updates, and security usually come with recurring fees.

Without knowing how Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk scopes its projects or what its “packages” include, it’s impossible to gauge the true value. The lack of pricing combined with the absent portfolio makes it very difficult for a potential client to make an informed decision.

cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk, it’s crucial to compare its offerings against the broader market of web development services in the UK. This comparison highlights not just its strengths (few as they may be) but, more importantly, its significant shortcomings when placed against industry standards and more reputable alternatives.

Key Differentiators of Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk (Claimed)

  • “Build Before Invoicing” Model: This is the most unique and appealing aspect, significantly reducing client risk. No major competitor offers this as a standard practice, as it places considerable financial risk on the developer.
  • Affordability (Claimed): The name itself suggests a price advantage, though this is unverified due to the lack of transparent pricing.
  • Inclusion of First Year Hosting & Management: Many agencies bundle this, but it’s a good inclusion for new businesses.
  • Full Website Ownership: This is an important ethical practice that not all budget providers guarantee.

How Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk Falls Short Against Competitors

The primary areas where Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk trails behind most reputable web development services or even DIY website builders are in transparency, demonstrable quality, and professional presentation.

  1. Transparency in Pricing:

    • Competitors (e.g., Squarespace, Wix, Shopify): Provide clear, tiered pricing structures, often with free trials, allowing customers to easily compare plans and budget.
    • Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk: Offers no public pricing. This forces engagement and makes it impossible to assess value without direct communication. This is a significant competitive disadvantage.
  2. Portfolio and Social Proof: Nextposition.co.uk Review

    • Competitors (Agencies & Freelancers): Showcase extensive portfolios with live links to past projects, case studies, and client testimonials with names and often photos.
    • Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk: Has no visible portfolio and displays “0%” for satisfied customers and “0” for websites made/managed. This is a critical failure in demonstrating capability and trustworthiness.
  3. Professionalism and Website Quality:

    • Competitors (Agencies & Builders): Have polished, well-structured websites that often serve as examples of their own design capabilities. They include clear “About Us” sections, team bios, legal terms, and robust FAQs.
    • Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk: Its own website lacks basic professionalism. Unlinked navigation, contradictory statistics, and generic content create a poor impression. The absence of legal pages (T&Cs, Privacy Policy) is a major concern.
  4. Service Specificity and Expertise:

    • Competitors: Often specialise (e.g., e-commerce, specific industries, advanced SEO) and provide detailed explanations of their processes, technology stack, and methodologies.
    • Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk: Offers very generic service descriptions without delving into their specific approach, tools, or expertise, making it hard to differentiate their quality.
  5. Support and Account Management:

    • Competitors: Typically offer multiple support channels (phone, chat, email), dedicated account managers, and clear processes for client communication and project updates.
    • Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk: Only provides a contact form and email, with no mention of client portals or structured project management.

Conclusion of Comparison:

While the “build before invoicing” model is an attractive offer, it’s overshadowed by the overwhelming lack of fundamental transparency and professional practices that are standard across the web development industry. Reputable alternatives, whether they are DIY builders or full-service agencies, consistently outperform Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk in providing clear information, demonstrable quality, and reliable support. For any business, especially one investing in its digital foundation, opting for an alternative with a proven track record and clear terms is a far safer and more prudent choice. Cavendishvenues.co.uk Review

Ethical Considerations for Website Services

When it comes to engaging with any service, particularly one that shapes your digital presence like website design and development, ethical considerations are paramount. For Muslim businesses and individuals, ensuring that the services align with Islamic principles of honesty, transparency, and fair dealing is crucial. The issues observed with Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk touch upon several areas relevant to these ethical standards.

Transparency (Gharar and Ghish)

In Islamic finance and business, gharar (excessive uncertainty or deception) and ghish (deception or misrepresentation) are strictly prohibited. These principles extend to all business dealings, demanding clarity and full disclosure.

  • Missing Pricing: The complete absence of pricing information on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk directly contributes to gharar. Clients are left with significant uncertainty regarding the cost of the service before engaging, which goes against the principle of clear and transparent contracts.
  • Broken Statistics/Misrepresentation: The display of “0%” satisfied customers and “0” websites made, despite claims of serving “many tradesmen,” is a form of misrepresentation (ghish). Whether intentional or a technical error, it creates a deceptive impression that undermines trust. A business should accurately reflect its capabilities and track record.
  • No Portfolio: The lack of a demonstrable portfolio means clients cannot verify the quality of work. This lack of transparency about past performance makes it difficult to assess the true value and expertise, again contributing to uncertainty.

Trustworthiness and Reliability (Amanah)

The concept of Amanah (trustworthiness, integrity, and fulfilling trusts) is central to Islamic business ethics. A business should be reliable and deliver on its promises.

  • Broken Promises (implied): If the claims of serving “many tradesmen” are true, but the counters show zero, it suggests a failure in accurately representing their operations, which impacts their Amanah.
  • Website Functionality: A web design company’s own website should be a testament to its quality. Unlinked navigation items and broken statistics indicate a lack of attention to detail and potentially a reliability issue with their own digital presence. If their own site isn’t fully functional, how reliable will their client projects be?

Fair Dealing and Honesty (Adl and Sidq)

Adl (justice and fairness) and Sidq (truthfulness) are foundational. This includes fair pricing, honest communication, and avoiding exploitation.

  • Fair Pricing: While “cheap” is subjective, true fairness in pricing requires transparency. Without knowing the cost, it’s impossible to judge if the price is fair for the value delivered.
  • Honest Communication: All information presented by a business should be truthful and not misleading. The conflicting information on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk’s homepage falls short of this standard.

Recommendations for Ethical Engagement

For Muslim businesses seeking website services, it is advisable to: Doyoutakecard.co.uk Review

  1. Prioritise Transparency: Always choose providers who offer clear pricing, detailed service descriptions, and easily accessible terms and conditions.
  2. Demand a Portfolio: Insist on seeing live examples of their work to verify quality and style.
  3. Seek Social Proof: Look for genuine client testimonials, reviews, and case studies.
  4. Verify Claims: Be cautious of vague promises or contradictory information.
  5. Understand Ownership and Exit Terms: Ensure you retain full ownership of your website and domain, and that cancellation/transfer processes are clear and fair.

In conclusion, while the services themselves (web design, SEO) are permissible, the manner in which Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk presents itself raises significant ethical concerns due to its lack of transparency, conflicting information, and absence of essential professional disclosures. It deviates from the Islamic principles of clarity, trustworthiness, and honesty in business dealings.

FAQ

What is Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk is a web design and development service based in the UK that claims to offer affordable website solutions for small businesses and tradesmen, including services like WordPress development, website cloning, SEO, and maintenance.

Is Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk a legitimate company?

Based on the website’s content, while it offers legitimate services like web design, the lack of transparency regarding pricing, client portfolio, and the presence of conflicting statistics (e.g., “0% satisfied customers” despite claiming to serve many businesses) raises significant questions about its operational legitimacy and professionalism.

How much does Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk charge for a website?

The website does not provide any public pricing information or package details. To get a quote, you are directed to contact them directly, which is a significant drawback for transparency.

Can I see examples of websites built by Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

No, the website does not feature a visible portfolio with live examples of their past work. The “Portfolio” link in their navigation does not lead to a functional portfolio page. Smokersheavenshop.co.uk Review

Does Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk offer free consultations?

Yes, the website states that a free consultation is included in all of their packages, along with a free logo for your business.

What is the “build before invoicing” promise from Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk claims they will build your website before invoicing you, and only charge once you are happy with the work. This is an unusual and potentially risk-reducing offer for the client, if genuinely implemented.

Is hosting included with Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk services?

Yes, according to their website, the first year’s hosting and management are included in all of their packages.

Do I own my website if I use Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

Yes, the website states that you completely own your website and can take it anywhere you want, unlike some companies that might force you to stay.

What services does Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk provide?

They offer a range of services including web design, WordPress website development, website cloning, web development, website management, website maintenance, and SEO optimization. Uchi.co.uk Review

Are there any testimonials or reviews from Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk clients?

No, the website does not display any client testimonials or reviews. Furthermore, their “satisfied customers” counter is prominently displayed as “0%,” which contradicts their claims of serving many businesses.

Does Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk handle SEO?

Yes, they claim to offer SEO optimization services, focusing on both on-page and off-page techniques to help websites rank better in search engines.

What is “website cloning” according to Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

Website cloning, as offered by them, involves moving an existing website to a WordPress platform, especially for clients who might be tied into expensive contracts elsewhere, aiming to save them money.

Is Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk good for small businesses?

While they target small businesses with promises of affordability, the significant lack of transparent pricing, a visible portfolio, and clear client reviews makes it difficult to definitively recommend them as a reliable partner for small businesses seeking to establish a professional online presence.

What are some reliable alternatives to Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

Reliable alternatives include DIY website builders like Squarespace, Wix, or Hostinger Website Builder, managed WordPress hosting providers like WordPress.com, e-commerce platforms like Shopify, and professional freelancer platforms like Fiverr Pro or Upwork for custom development. Flightreclaim.co.uk Review

How do I contact Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

You can contact them via a “Contact Us” form on their website or directly through the email address provided on their site.

Does Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk offer any guarantees?

Beyond the “build before invoicing” promise, the website does not explicitly state any other guarantees regarding performance, timelines, or client satisfaction in a formal sense.

Are there any legal terms and conditions or a privacy policy on Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

No, clear links to essential legal documents like Terms and Conditions or a Privacy Policy are not prominently displayed or easily accessible on their homepage, which is a significant legal and ethical oversight for a business website.

What industries does Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk claim to serve?

They claim to serve various tradesmen and small businesses, including electricians, plumbers, builders, mechanics, plasterers, beauticians, hairdressers, small shops, and service industries.

What is the typical turnaround time for a website from Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk?

The website does not specify any typical turnaround times or project durations for building a website. Bestgarden.co.uk Review

Can Cheapwebsitesuk.co.uk help with an existing website that needs updates or is experiencing issues?

Yes, they offer “Website Maintenance” services specifically for existing websites that need updating or are experiencing issues, as well as “Website Management” for ongoing updates and security.



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