How plumbers can get more Google reviews
Last updated: 6 October 2026
Why do reviews matter?
Customers choosing between plumbers often compare star ratings and read what other people said. Reviews also give Google more information about your business. A steady flow of genuine, recent reviews helps on both counts.
When should you ask?
Ask while the job is fresh, usually the same day or the next, when the customer has seen the result and you are still top of mind. Waiting weeks makes people less likely to bother.
How do you make it easy?
- Send a direct link. Your Business Profile has a link you can share for customers to leave a review. Send it by text or email once the job is done, or add it to your invoice.
- Use a QR code. A QR code on an invoice, business card or van leads straight to the review page.
- Keep the ask short. One friendly line is enough: "If you were happy with the work, a short Google review would really help."
If you text customers, follow the rules in our guide to texting customers.
What does Google not allow?
Google's policy allows you to ask for reviews that reflect a genuine experience. It does not allow you to:
- Offer incentives. That includes payment, discounts or free work in exchange for a review, or for changing or removing a negative one.
- Selectively ask only happy customers, or discourage negative reviews. This is sometimes called review gating.
- Pressure customers to leave a review or tell them what to write.
The simplest way to stay inside the rules is to ask everyone, in the same way, and not to offer anything for it.
How should you reply to reviews?
- Thank people for positive reviews, and use their name if they gave it.
- Reply calmly to negative ones. Say sorry that the experience fell short, say what you will do or offer to talk it through, and take the details offline. Future customers read how you respond.
- Do not argue in public, and do not reveal private details about the job.
Keep asking
A few reviews from long ago look stale. Build asking into every job, so reviews keep arriving. Customers you service every year are among your best sources, and our guide to getting customers to rebook covers keeping in touch with them.