Key takeaways
- Pick the most specific primary category for the work that makes you the most money.
- Service-area businesses should hide their address and list the cities they serve.
- Upload real job photos every week — before, during and after.
- Ask for a review after every job and reply to every one.
Why your profile matters more than you think
For contractors, remodelers, roofers and other trades, the Google Business Profile is often the first — and sometimes only — thing a customer looks at before calling. A complete, active profile gets shown more often and converts more of the people who see it.
The setup checklist
- Verify ownership of the profile.
- Use your real business name — adding keywords to it can get the profile suspended.
- Choose the most specific primary category (for example "Roofing contractor," "Kitchen remodeler" or "General contractor").
- Add secondary categories only for work you actually do.
- If you work at customers' homes, set a service area and hide your street address.
- Add your phone number, website and accurate hours.
Services and description
List each service with a short description in plain language. Write a business description that says what you do, who you do it for and which areas you serve. Avoid stuffing it with city names — write it for customers.
Photos: your biggest advantage
- Upload before, during and after photos from real jobs every week.
- Include your team, vehicles and signage so customers know you're established.
- Skip stock photos — customers and Google both value real work.
Reviews and replies
Ask every customer for a review right after the job, with a direct link sent by text. Reply to every review within a few days. When it fits naturally, mention the type of job in your reply.
Keep it active
- Share posts about recent projects, seasonal offers and availability.
- Answer questions in the Q&A section.
- Update hours for holidays and weather closures.
- Make sure your website's service and city pages match the services on your profile.
Frequently asked questions
Should contractors show their address on Google Business Profile?
If customers don't visit your location, set a service area and hide your street address. If you have an office or showroom customers visit, show it.
How often should contractors post on Google Business Profile?
Weekly is a good rhythm: recent projects, photos and seasonal updates keep your profile active and give customers fresh proof of your work.
Can I add keywords to my business name on Google?
No. Use your real business name. Adding keywords goes against Google's guidelines and can get your profile suspended.
Want this done for your business? Book a free strategy call — no contracts, no pressure.
Get a free strategy callRelated services →Get a free audit →