How to Ask for Google Reviews (and Get More 5-Star Ratings Without Sounding Pushy)
When homeowners search for a remodeling contractor, they almost always start in the same place: Google.
They’ll type in something like “kitchen remodeler near me” or “bathroom renovation contractor in [city],” and immediately they’re met with a list of local companies, each with a rating next to its name. Those stars are their decision drivers.
The problem is…consumers are more likely to leave a review after a bad experience. If you want them to share good news about your company, you a) have to do good work, and b) you have to ask your clients for Google reviews.
Let’s talk about why Google reviews are so important, how to get more 5-star reviews for remodeling, and most importantly, how to ask for Google reviews without it feeling awkward or transactional.
Why Google Reviews Matter for Remodeling Contractors
A homeowner thinking about a $50,000 kitchen upgrade or a full-gut bathroom remodel isn’t making that decision lightly. They’re not just buying your design style or construction expertise. They’re buying peace of mind. And nothing builds that peace of mind faster than hearing from people who’ve been in their shoes.
Here’s why reviews are mission-critical for your remodeling business:
1. They Build Instant Trust
No matter how polished your website is, potential clients want to hear what real customers have to say. Reviews are the modern version of word-of-mouth referral, and arguably even more powerful because they’re visible at the tap of a finger.
2. They Improve Your Local SEO
Google’s algorithm loves fresh, consistent, high-quality reviews. More reviews, and especially recent ones, can improve your rankings in the “map pack” (the section with the business names, star ratings, and location pins). Showing up higher means more traffic to your website, more calls, and more booked projects.
3. They Speak Your Client’s Language
Reading your reviews can give you incredible insight into what clients value most about your work. Maybe it’s your attention to detail, your team’s professionalism, or the way you stayed on budget. These details help you refine your messaging, guide your sales conversations, and double down on what’s working.
How to Get More 5-Star Reviews for Remodeling Projects
The question most remodelers ask is simple: “How do I actually get clients to leave reviews—especially the good ones?”
The answer lies in a process that’s consistent, thoughtful, and easy for the client.
Here’s how to ask for Google reviews in a way that feels natural and earns results.
Step 1: Ask at the Right Time
Timing matters more than you think. You don’t want to wait weeks after the project wraps up when the excitement has faded. The best time to ask is right after a positive milestone, when the client is thrilled with their new space, the final punch list is complete, and they’re already singing your praises.
For example, during a final walkthrough or post-project check-in, say something like:
“We’ve really enjoyed working with you on this project. If you’re happy with how everything turned out, we’d be incredibly grateful if you’d be willing to share a quick Google review. It helps other homeowners find us and feel confident working with us too.”
Keep it personal. Keep it timely. And don’t wait until weeks have gone by.
Step 2: Make It Easy
Even the happiest clients won’t leave a review if it feels like a hassle. You need to remove friction completely.
That means:
- Send a direct link that opens the Google review form for your business.
- Include simple instructions on where to click and what to expect.
- Offer a few suggested talking points if they’re not sure what to write (without scripting it for them).
You’re not being pushy—you’re being helpful. And most people appreciate the clarity.
If you’re not sure how to create a direct review link, Google offers a free tool via your Google Business Profile. Or, ask your marketing partner (like us) to help create a short, branded URL you can reuse with every client.
Step 3: Send a Follow-Up via Email or Text
Sometimes people are enthusiastic in person but forget once life gets busy. A simple follow-up message a day or two later can go a long way in turning good intentions into 5-star reviews.
Here’s a message you could send:
Subject: Thank You for Trusting Us — One More Favor?
“Hi [Client First Name],
It was a pleasure working with you on your [kitchen/bathroom/whole-home] remodel. We’re so glad you’re enjoying the new space.
If you have a minute, would you be willing to leave us a quick review on Google? Your feedback not only means a lot to us, but it also helps other homeowners find a remodeler they can trust.
Here’s the link: [insert Google review link]
Thanks again — we truly appreciate your support.”
Personal, specific, and respectful of their time. That’s the formula that works.
Step 4: Build Reviews Into Your Process
The most effective way to get more 5-star reviews isn’t just to ask once—it’s to build it into your process.
At Hughes Integrated, we help remodelers create systems so review requests happen automatically as part of your client wrap-up. That might include:
- A templated email sent after every project
- A follow-up reminder if no review is submitted
- A handoff script your project manager can use at closeout
- A quarterly check-in where you revisit past clients and invite reviews if they didn’t leave one initially
When reviews become a regular part of your process—not a one-off—your reputation will begin to grow steadily and organically.
Step 5: Respond to Every Review (Even the Positive Ones)
When a client takes time to write a thoughtful review, acknowledge it. A simple “Thank you for your kind words—we’re honored to have worked on your home” goes a long way.
Responding to positive reviews shows you care and keeps your business profile active in Google’s eyes. It also sends a message to future clients that you’re responsive, professional, and client-focused.
And yes, if you ever get a negative review, respond with grace, not defensiveness. It shows maturity, accountability, and commitment to doing better. In some cases, a well-handled response can turn a negative into a win.
What If You Don’t Have Many Reviews Right Now?
That’s okay. Every strong reputation starts somewhere.
Start by reaching out personally to the last 5 to 10 clients you’ve served in the past 6–12 months. Let them know how much their feedback would mean to you. Most clients, especially ones you’ve built trust with, will be happy to help when asked the right way.
Then, create a repeatable system for requesting reviews from every new project going forward. This is where consistent growth happens.
How Hughes Integrated Helps Remodelers Build a Better Online Reputation
At Hughes Integrated, we understand that for home remodelers, trust is everything. And in today’s digital landscape, trust is built online long before a phone call ever happens.
We help remodeling companies build smart, systemized marketing plans that include:
- Google Business Profile optimization
- Done-for-you review request templates
- Follow-up systems to increase review volume
- Messaging strategies that pull language from real client feedback
- SEO-driven blogs and web content to strengthen your authority
Whether you’ve got two reviews or 200, we’ll help you build a plan that attracts better-fit clients, closes more jobs, and reflects the quality work you’re already doing.
If you’re ready to stop relying on referrals alone and build a reputation that works for you 24/7, we’re here to help.
Let’s talk about what’s next. Schedule a call with our team today!
