How Local Tradies Actually Show Up on Google (Without Wasting a Cent)

Kosta Diamantopoulos | DigiTradie Founder

Every day, people are searching for the exact work you do; blocked drains, leaking taps, bathroom renovations, roof repairs.

If you're not showing up, you're essentially digitally invisible. Simple as that.

Paid Ads Does NOT Equal SEO Success

Let’s be clear from the start: Google doesn’t let you pay to rank higher organically. Your paid ads don’t impact your rankings. They’re completely separate systems, and Google isn’t allowed to favour businesses just because they spend money.

So if you want to show up when someone searches “plumber Preston” or “bathroom renovation Melbourne,” here’s what actually matters.

Google Reviews That Say Something Useful

When a client writes “Thanks for unblocking our drain in Reservoir,” that’s gold. That’s Google being told exactly what you do, and where you do it. That review has more SEO weight than a thousand generic testimonials.

A Real Business Profile That’s Fully Built Out

Photos. Service areas. Hours. Short, clear descriptions. This is the thing that shows up on maps, and 90% of tradie leads come from maps. If your profile is half-empty, you’re already behind.

A Website That Talks Like Your Customers Search

You don’t need a full-blown website with a hundred pages. But if all you’ve got is a one-pager with no mention of the actual services you offer, don’t expect Google to send you work.

Start with one service per page. Use the terms people actually search. You can’t lean on “premium plumbing solutions”, because, seriously, who is searching that? You’re better off keeping it simple, headlining or sub-headlining “blocked drain repair” or “gas heater installation”.

Don’t Run Google Ads Unless It’s Urgent Work

We only recommend Google Ads if you’re doing same-day callouts or emergency jobs. Someone types “emergency plumber near me”, you want to show up at the top — that’s when it’s worth paying. Otherwise, build the organic presence that earns trust.

And Finally — Do Good Work

This guide only helps if the work you do holds up. If your customers aren’t happy, they won’t leave reviews, they won’t refer you, and Google won’t reward you. We can’t teach you how to do your trade — that’s your job.

What we can do is make sure that when someone searches for exactly what you do, in the exact suburb you work in — you’re the one they find.

That’s what wins jobs.