Local SEO for Trades: Rank #1 on Google Maps in 90 Days

TL;DR: Local SEO helps your trades business appear at the top of Google Maps when someone nearby searches “plumber near me” or “electrician in [your town]”. With a properly optimised Google Business Profile, consistent reviews, and a few technical fixes on your website, most tradespeople can reach the local top 3 within 60–90 days — […]

Google Ads for Tradespeople: The Ultimate UK Guide (2026)

TL;DR: Google Ads can generate consistent, high-intent leads for UK tradespeople — but only if set up and managed correctly. The average cost per click for plumbing keywords is £5–£14, and a well-optimised campaign typically delivers leads at £25–£60 each. This guide covers everything: budgets, keywords, Local Services Ads, and the mistakes that silently drain […]

The Complete Guide to Getting More Leads for UK Trades Businesses in 2026

The Complete Guide to Getting More Leads for UK Trades Businesses in 2026 TL;DR: Getting more leads as a tradesperson in 2026 means combining Google visibility, a solid online reputation, and a simple system that converts enquiries into booked jobs. Word of mouth alone won’t scale — but add Google, reviews, and one or two […]

How to Price Plumbing Jobs for Profit (Not Just to Win)

TL;DR: Most plumbers undercharge because they price to win work, not to make money. To price for profit, you need to know your actual costs — labour, materials, overheads, and your own time — then build a margin on top. A healthy plumbing business should be clearing 30–40% net profit on every job. Most plumbers […]

How should I handle a bad Google review?

TL;DR: When you get a bad Google review as a plumber, reply within 24-48 hours. Keep it professional—thank them, acknowledge the issue without arguing, apologise where appropriate, offer to fix it privately, and invite them to contact you. Even if the review is unfair, a calm, constructive response shows future customers you’re accountable. Never ignore […]

Are Google Ads Worth It for Small Trades Businesses?

TL;DR: Google Ads can work for one-person trades businesses if you average £300+ per job and can commit £750–£1,500/month for 2–3 months while campaigns learn. Expect £20–£80 per lead in the UK. Below £500/month budget, most sole traders see poor returns because you can’t gather enough data to optimise. Local Services Ads may be a […]

How Do I Stop Working on the Tools and Work on the Business?

TL;DR: Getting off the tools doesn’t mean abandoning the work you love — it means stepping back so your business can grow without you doing every single job. You need to hire your first employee, build simple systems so they can do the work your way, and accept that your role is shifting from doing […]

How to Get on a Preferred Contractor List

Learn how to get on a preferred contractor list in the UK. Practical steps for construction directors targeting larger contracts with tier-1 clients and frameworks.