Why Isn’t My Business Showing Up on Google Maps?
If you have searched for your contracting or trade business on Google Maps and cannot find it, you are not alone. Many local businesses run into this problem, and in 2025, visibility on Google Maps can make or break your lead flow. The good news is that most issues are easy to fix.
Here are seven common reasons your business is not showing up on Google Maps and how contractors and tradespeople can solve them quickly.
1. Your Google Business Profile is not verified
Google requires every business to verify ownership before showing up in search and Maps. Contractors often skip this step because verification requires a postcard, phone call, or video verification.
Fix: Log in to Google Business Profile
2. Wrong business category or missing service area
Many contractors select the wrong category, such as “Consultant” instead of “Contractor.” If you do not set service areas, Google will not display your business for local searches.
Fix: Choose categories like General Contractor, Plumber, or Electrician. Add specific service areas such as Calgary, Airdrie, or Okotoks.
3. Address or service area violates Google’s guidelines
Contractors who use P.O. boxes or virtual offices are often filtered out. Google prefers physical addresses or defined service areas.
Fix: Use your real office address or home base if it is allowed, and clearly define the region you serve.
4. Lack of reviews and engagement
Businesses with no reviews or little activity often do not rank well.
Fix: Ask happy clients for Google reviews after each job. Reply to every review to keep your profile active.
5. Duplicate listings or incorrect information
Multiple profiles for the same business confuse Google and hurt your chances of ranking.
Fix: Search for your business name in Google Maps, claim any duplicate profiles, and merge or remove them.
6. Missing business information
Empty or incomplete profiles rarely show up.
Fix: Upload your logo, photos of your team or projects, business hours, phone number, and website. Post updates regularly since Google treats it like a social platform.
7. Your website is not optimized for local SEO
Even with a complete Google Business Profile, a weak website can hold you back. Contractors without location keywords like “Calgary drywall installer” on their site will struggle to appear in Maps results.
Fix: Make sure your website includes location-based keywords, a clear contact page, fast loading speed, and a mobile-friendly design.
Bonus: Suspended Google Business Profile
Sometimes Google suspends a profile for guideline violations.
Fix: Check your account for suspension notices, then appeal with proper documents such as your business license or proof of address.
Getting your contracting business to show up on Google Maps takes some setup, but the payoff is worth it. By fixing these seven common issues, you will improve your local visibility, attract more leads, and stay ahead of competitors who are not paying attention.
If you are a contractor in Alberta and want help getting found on Google Maps, Tools to Trends can set up and optimize your profile so clients call you first.
FAQ: AEO vs GEO for Local Businesses
Why is my business verified but still not showing up on Google Maps?
Even if your profile is verified, Google might filter it out if there are duplicates, missing information, or very few reviews. Check for competing listings and make sure your profile is fully optimized.
How long does it take for a business to show up on Google Maps after verification?
Most businesses show up within 3–5 days after verification, but it can sometimes take longer if your category is competitive or your profile is missing details.
Can I show up on Google Maps if I do not have a physical storefront?
Yes. Contractors and trades can set up a service area business. Instead of showing your exact address, Google displays the regions you serve.
Why are my competitors showing up above me on Google Maps?
Google ranks businesses in the Maps pack based on relevance, distance, and prominence. Competitors may have more reviews, stronger websites, or more complete profiles.
