How to Get Found Online: Local SEO Tips for Trades & Property Services

If you run a trade, property or home improvement business, getting found online isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential.

When someone searches for "plumber near me" or "electrician in Grimsby," they’re ready to buy.

But if you’re not showing up in that moment, you’re missing out.

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is what gets you seen. And the good news? It’s not as complicated as it sounds. Let’s break it down.

📍 1. Set Up (and Optimise) Your Google Business Profile

This is your single most important local ranking tool.

Here’s what to do:

• Set up your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) if you haven’t already

• Add your business name, category and full service list

• Include your opening hours and service area

• Add real photos of your work, team and vehicles

• Post updates (just like social media — before/after jobs, reviews, offers)

Don’t forget reviews. Reviews are key for trust and visibility. Ask every happy customer for one — and make it easy by sending them a direct link (our free Review Request Tool helps with this).

🧭 2. Be Consistent Across Online Directories

Local SEO isn’t just about Google. It’s also about where else your business shows up — and how consistent that info is.

Start by listing your business on:

• Yell

• TrustATrader

• Thomson Local

• Checkatrade

• Industry-specific or trade association directories

Make sure your Name, Address and Phone Number (NAP) are exactly the same on every site. Google looks for consistency.

🔑 3. Use Local Keywords on Your Website

You don’t need to be a copywriter. You just need to be specific.

Examples:

• "Gas Safe registered engineer in Lincoln"

• "Kitchen fitter in Cleethorpes"

• "Landlord services across North East Lincs"

Mention your trade and location clearly on your:

• Homepage

• About page

• Services pages

• Image file names (e.g. "boiler-install-cleethorpes.jpg")

📷 4. Show Your Work and Location

Google rewards content that proves what you do and where you do it.

• Add project photos to your website and Google listing

• Write short job summaries: "Installed new boiler in Scartho"

• Use alt text on images (e.g. "bathroom refit in Humberston")

It’s great for real people — and great for search engines too.

🛠️ 5. Keep It Active

Google likes businesses that are alive and active.

• Add posts to your Google Business Profile (weekly if you can)

• Reply to every review (especially the good ones!)

• Keep your hours up to date

• Refresh website content now and again (even small edits help)

🔁 TL;DR (Too Long Didn’t Read)

• Set up your Google Business Profile and use it actively

• Be consistent across directories and listings

• Use trade and location keywords clearly on your website

• Add photos, project details and reviews

• Keep things updated — Google rewards activity

If you want help setting any of this up, or you're not sure where to start, get in touch with us here. This is exactly what we help trades and property businesses with every day.

Or head back to The Ultimate Marketing Guide for Trades & Property Services to see how Local SEO fits into the bigger picture.