What customers search for
These are the kinds of searches that bring builders their calls. Your profile and your reviews decide who shows up.
- builder near me
- house extension [your town]
- loft conversion [your town]
- kitchen fitter [your town]
- bathroom renovation near me
When to ask for a review
Ask when the project is complete and the snagging list is closed, while the customer is enjoying the result. For long jobs, send the request after the final walk-through, not at the final invoice. Ask the customer to mention what the project was, so the review is useful to the next reader.
Set up your Google profile properly
- Choose the category that matches most of your work, for example General contractor, then add others such as Home builder or Kitchen remodeler where they apply.
- Add before and after photos for each project type, with the customer's permission.
- Write a plain description: the kinds of project you take on, the area you cover and how you price and schedule.
- Post a short update after each finished project. Recent activity tells a prospect you are still working.
- Answer the questions section on your profile yourself, so the first answers come from you.
For the full set-up routine, use our Google Business Profile checklist.
Example messages
Short, honest and easy to act on. Edit them so they sound like you.
Hi Sam, thanks for choosing [Your business] for the kitchen extension. I would really appreciate your honest feedback on Google. It only takes a minute and helps other people find a trusted local builder: [your review link] Thanks, [Your name]
Hi [name], it was a pleasure working on your [project]. I would really appreciate your honest feedback on Google, as reviews help other people choosing a builder: [link]. Thanks, [your name]
Hi [name], thanks for trusting us with the [project]. If you have a minute, an honest review on Google would mean a lot: [link]
The wording asks for honest feedback and does not offer anything in return. That keeps you within Google's rules and UK consumer law. What you can and cannot ask.
One thing to avoid
Ask every customer, including the ones where a project had difficulties. Asking only people you expect to be delighted is review gating, and it is against Google's rules.
Replying when it goes wrong
An example of a calm, specific reply for this trade:
Thank you for the feedback, [name]. I'm sorry about the delays on your project. I understand how disruptive that was. I'd welcome a conversation about it. Please call me on [number]. [Your name]
Common questions
When should a builder ask?
After the final walk-through and snagging sign-off, when the customer has seen the finished result.
Should I ask for photos in reviews?
You can mention that people are welcome to add photos, but never offer anything in return.
Our website includes a printable review kit with your Google review link, a QR card and message templates like this one.
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