Local SEO for Contractors: How to Get Found Online
When homeowners need a contractor, they search Google. Here's how to make sure you show up first.
What is Local SEO?
Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is how Google decides which contractors to show when someone searches for "plumber near me" or "roofing contractor in [your city]." It's like having a digital storefront that Google recommends to potential customers.
How Google Picks Which Contractors to Show
Google looks at three main things when deciding which contractors to show in local search results:
1. Your Google Business Profile
This is your free listing on Google that shows your business name, address, phone number, and hours. Think of it as your digital business card that Google uses to understand what you do and where you work.
What matters: Having complete, accurate information and keeping it updated.
2. Customer Reviews
Google loves fresh, positive reviews. The more 5-star reviews you have, the higher you rank. Google sees reviews as proof that you do good work and that customers are happy.
What matters: Getting regular reviews (not just a few old ones) and responding to them professionally.
3. Your Website
Google looks at your website to understand what services you offer and how professional you are. A good website tells Google you're a serious business.
What matters: Having a website that loads fast, looks professional, and clearly explains your services.
Why Reviews Are So Important
Reviews are the single biggest factor in local SEO for contractors. Here's why:
- Google trusts reviews: When customers leave reviews, Google sees this as real feedback from real people
- Fresh reviews matter: Getting regular reviews shows Google you're actively working and customers are happy
- 5-star reviews boost rankings: Higher ratings help you appear before competitors with lower ratings
- Reviews answer customer questions: They help potential customers decide to call you instead of someone else
How to Improve Your Local SEO
Here are the simple steps every contractor should take:
1. Set up your Google Business Profile
Go to Google My Business and create a complete profile with your business information, photos, and service areas.
2. Ask for reviews after every job
Make it easy for happy customers to leave reviews by sending them a direct link to your Google review page.
3. Keep your information updated
Update your business hours, services, and contact information whenever they change.
4. Add photos to your profile
Show off your work with before/after photos and team photos to build trust.
The Bottom Line
Local SEO isn't complicated, it's all about making sure Google knows who you are, where you work, and that your customers are happy. At the end of the day, contractors who consistently get reviews and keep their information updated are the ones who show up first when homeowners search for help.
Want to make getting reviews easier?
Dave make it easy to send review requests with before and after photos to your clients, making it simple to get more reviews and rank higher in local search results.
Learn More About Dave's Review Tool