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Claim Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile is how you show up in local search and Google Maps. This is essential for getting found by homeowners in your area.

Watch: How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile
Step-by-Step: Create Your Profile
1 Go to business.google.com (button below) and sign in with the Google account you want to own this business. Use a business email if you have one — it makes it easier to transfer ownership to staff later.
2 Enter your business name exactly as it appears on your signage or legal documents. Don't add extra keywords — Google strictly enforces this and will suspend profiles that stuff keywords into the name (e.g., don't do "Smith Hardscaping - Best Patio Builder in Boston").
3 Select your Business Type: choose Service Business if you go to customers (most contractors), Local Store if customers come to you, or Online if you have no physical location.
4 Choose your Primary Category. This is the biggest factor in how Google ranks you locally. Be specific — choose "Patio Builder" or "Swimming Pool Contractor" instead of just "Contractor." You can add up to 9 secondary categories later.
5 Set your location or service area. If you have a storefront, enter your full street address. If you're a service-area business (most contractors), select "No" to a physical address and list the cities or zip codes you serve.
6 Add your phone number (local numbers rank better than 1-800 numbers) and your website URL. Google may also prompt you to link social media profiles to help verify your business.
Verification (Important)

Google needs to confirm you're a real business. The most common method now is Video Verification, though other options (phone, email) may be available depending on your business type:

1 You'll be prompted to record a short video on your mobile device.
2 Show your surroundings — street signs or nearby landmarks so Google can confirm your location.
3 Show proof of business — your signage, branded vehicle, equipment, or tools of the trade.
4 Show management proof — you unlocking your shop, opening your POS system, or logging into your business laptop.

Don't wait on verification. It can take a few days to process. Move on to Step 4 and come back when it's approved.

Finish Your Profile

While you wait for verification, fill in the rest:

✦ Business Description — write up to 750 characters about what you do. No links or HTML.
✦ Photos — upload at least 3–5 real project photos. Google prioritizes authentic photos over stock photography.
✦ Hours — set your regular business hours and any holiday hours.
Keep It Active

Your Google profile isn't "set it and forget it." Google rewards businesses that stay active. Post weekly updates using the "Add Update" button, and respond to every review (good and bad) within 48 hours. This is what keeps you showing up at the top of local search results.

Set Up Google Business Profile

Opens Google Business in a new tab

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