When to ask, by job type
| Job | Best moment to ask |
|---|---|
| Emergency leak or burst pipe | Once the water is off and the fix is done, before you leave |
| Water heater install | The next morning, after their first hot shower |
| Drain cleaning | Right after you show them it's running clear |
| Sewer or repipe | At the final walkthrough, when the yard or walls are put back |
Scripts techs can copy
"Glad we got that stopped for you. If you were happy with how it went, a quick Google review really helps a local company like ours. I'll text you the link."
"Hi [name], hope you enjoyed that first hot shower! If you have a minute, a quick review helps us a lot: [link]. Thanks for choosing [company]."
Make it every tech's habit
- Add "send review link" to the job-close checklist.
- Have each tech ask, not just the office; customers remember the person who fixed it.
- Reviews that mention a tech by name are great to share with the team.
Replying, including to the bad ones
Thank each reviewer and mention the job ("Glad the new water heater is working great!"). For a negative review, stay calm, acknowledge it, and offer to make it right by phone. Future customers read your replies as much as the reviews. Never offer discounts in exchange for reviews; it's against Google's rules.
Frequently asked questions
How many Google reviews does a plumber need?+
There's no magic number. What matters is having more recent, genuine reviews than the plumbers you compete with in your area, and getting new ones steadily.
Should plumbers ask for reviews on emergency calls?+
Yes. Customers are often most grateful after an emergency. Ask once the problem is fixed, and follow up with a text link.