Short answer
Yes, if you want work from people who don't already know you. Most customers check a business online before they call, even after a recommendation, and a simple website with your services, area, photos and reviews makes that check work in your favour. If you're fully booked from repeat customers and referrals, a free Google Business Profile may be enough for now.
Why it matters even with word of mouth
A recommendation gets your name into someone's head. Before they call, most people still look you up to check you're real, local and still trading.
If there's nothing to find, or only an old Facebook post, some of them will call someone they can check instead. A website backs up the recommendation instead of leaving it to chance.
What a Google Business Profile does, and doesn't, do
Your free Google Business Profile puts you on Google Maps and shows your reviews, so every trade should have one.
It has limited room to explain your services, show your best jobs or prove your qualifications, and Google decides how it looks. A website gives your profile somewhere to send people and helps Google understand what you do and where.
What a good trade website needs
Most trade websites don't need to be big. They need to do a few things well:
- A clear way to contact you on every page
- A page for each main service you want more of
- The towns and villages you cover
- Real photos of your work
- Genuine reviews
- Your qualifications, registrations and insurance
- Fast loading on a phone, because that's where most people will find you
What it should cost
Prices range from a few pounds a month for a DIY builder to several thousand pounds from an agency. Our website cost guide compares the options, and our own prices start at £250 setup plus £49 a month with hosting and support included.
When you might not need one yet
If you're fully booked months ahead from repeat customers, a website is less urgent. Set up your Google Business Profile anyway, so you're ready when you want to grow or need to replace a big customer.
Written by Jamie Faulkner, founder of Made to Ring, Ashford.
Common questions
Is a Facebook page enough for a tradesperson?
It helps, but it isn't a replacement. A website shows up in Google searches, belongs to you and is built to bring in enquiries. Our guide on websites and Facebook pages explains the difference.
How long does a trade website take to set up?
With us, a one-page site can be live within 5 working days once you've approved it. Bigger sites usually take two to three weeks.
Will a website get me on Google straight away?
Not straight away. New websites usually take weeks to appear in Google and longer to compete for busy searches. A Google Business Profile and genuine reviews often bring results sooner.
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