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Interactive 10-point checklist that scores your GBP completeness and identifies what to fix first.

Take the GBP Readiness Checklist

Google Business Profile Checklist for Contractors

Your Google Business Profile is the first thing most customers see when they search for a contractor in their area. This checklist covers every item that affects whether you show up, whether customers trust what they see, and whether they pick up the phone.

Setup checklist

1

Claim or create your profile at business.google.com

2

Choose a specific primary category (e.g., "HVAC Contractor" not "Contractor")

3

Add 2-3 secondary categories for other services

4

Set your service area by city or zip code

5

Add your phone number (direct, not a call center)

6

Set accurate business hours

7

Write a clear business description — what you do, where, why customers choose you

Content checklist

8

Add every service you offer as a separate service listing

9

Upload at least 10 photos: truck, completed work, team, equipment

10

Add your logo and a cover photo

11

Post at least once per week — job photos, tips, seasonal reminders

12

Answer any questions posted on your profile

Review checklist

13

Ask every satisfied customer for a Google review on completion day

14

Aim for 5+ reviews in your first month, then 1-2 per week ongoing

15

Respond to every review — thank positive, address negative professionally

Common mistakes

  • -Choosing a generic category like "Contractor" instead of your specific trade
  • -Listing service areas you do not actually cover
  • -Uploading fewer than 5 photos
  • -Setting up the profile once and never posting again
  • -Not responding to reviews (positive or negative)
  • -Having different phone numbers on GBP vs your website or other directories

Use the interactive GBP Readiness Checklist tool to score your profile completeness and see which items to fix first.

-- Richard

FAQ

How many items should I complete on this checklist?

All of them. Each incomplete item reduces your visibility in local search. Profiles with every field completed, 10+ photos, and consistent activity outperform incomplete profiles.

How long does it take to fully optimize GBP?

Initial setup takes 30-60 minutes. Ongoing optimization — weekly posts, review responses, new photos — takes about 10 minutes per week.

Does GBP really matter that much?

For local service businesses, GBP is the single most important free marketing tool. It controls what customers see when they search for your service in your area.

What is the most common GBP mistake?

Choosing a generic primary category instead of a specific one. "HVAC Contractor" ranks better than "Contractor" for HVAC searches.

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Related

This article is educational only -- not professional legal, tax, insurance, or licensing advice. Requirements vary by state and trade. Always verify with the appropriate authority or professional.