Google Business Profile for Contractors: Complete 2025 Setup Guide
Master Google Business Profile optimization to dominate local search results and get more emergency contractor calls from the local map pack.
Published August 15, 202512 min read
Why Google Business Profile is Critical for Contractors
73% of contractor searches include "near me" or local intent. Your Google Business Profile controls whether you appear in the coveted local map pack and Knowledge Panel.
Local Search Impact:
- • 92% of customers click on businesses in the map pack
- • Local pack generates 44% of all contractor website clicks
- • Optimized GBP profiles get 5x more calls than basic listings
- • 86% of people look up business locations on Google Maps
Complete Google Business Profile Setup
1. Business Information Optimization
Essential Information:
- Business Name: Use your legal business name (don't stuff keywords)
- Primary Category: Choose the most specific category (e.g., "Plumber" not "Contractor")
- Address: Use consistent address across all directories
- Phone Number: Local number preferred over toll-free
- Website: Link to your homepage or relevant landing page
- Hours: Include emergency hours if you offer 24/7 service
2. Categories and Services
Contractor Category Examples:
Primary Categories:
- • Plumber
- • Electrician
- • HVAC Contractor
- • Roofing Contractor
- • General Contractor
Additional Categories:
- • Emergency Plumbing Service
- • Water Heater Service
- • Drain Cleaning Service
- • 24-Hour Plumber
3. Photo Optimization Strategy
Visual content is crucial for contractor credibility. Profiles with 20+ photos get 40% more clicks.
Essential Photo Types:
- Logo: High-resolution company logo
- Team Photos: Staff in uniform with company vehicles
- Work Examples: Before/after project photos
- Equipment: Professional tools and equipment
- Vehicles: Branded trucks/vans at job sites
- Certifications: Licenses, insurance, certifications
Advanced GBP Features for Contractors
Google Posts Strategy
Effective Post Types:
- • Emergency service availability updates
- • Recent project completions with photos
- • Seasonal maintenance tips
- • Special offers and promotions
- • Company news and certifications
- • Weather-related service reminders
Reviews Management
Reviews are the #1 ranking factor for local search. 91% of customers read reviews before hiring contractors.
Review Generation System:
- • Ask for reviews immediately after job completion
- • Send follow-up texts with direct Google review links
- • Include review requests in invoices and emails
- • Respond to ALL reviews within 24 hours
- • Address negative reviews professionally and publicly
Local SEO
Ready to Optimize Your Google Business Profile?
Get your free GBP audit and discover exactly what's keeping you from the local map pack.