Google Business Profile vs a website: do you need both?
Short answer: start with a free Google Business Profile, then add a simple website. They do different jobs, and they work best linked to each other.
What each one does
| Feature | Google Business Profile | Your own website |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | From $0 (DIY) to thousands; Brightstoop is $149 |
| Shows on Google Maps | Can, once verified (placement isn't guaranteed) | No, but your profile can link to it |
| Reviews | Yes, from customers on Google | Only real ones you choose to show |
| You control the layout and wording | Partly; Google decides how it looks | Yes |
| Explains every service and area in detail | Limited | Yes |
| Looks professional when a customer checks you out | Helps | Often helps, especially for bigger jobs |
A simple order that works
- Check you qualify: Google only allows profiles for businesses that meet customers in person (going to their homes counts). If customers don't come to you, list a service area and hide your home address. Then claim or create the profile and verify it.
- Fill in your real phone number, hours, services and service area. Add real photos of your work.
- Get a simple website with the same name, phone and services, and a phone number customers can tap.
- Put the website link on the profile, and ask every customer the same way for an honest review on Google. Don't pick only the ones you expect to be positive.
Keep your business name, phone number and services the same everywhere. Mismatched details confuse customers and search engines.
Quick answers
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Google does not charge for a Business Profile. Be wary of anyone who calls claiming you must pay Google to keep it.
Can a Google Business Profile replace a website?
For some very small businesses it is enough to start. A website adds a page you control, works when people search your name, and gives Google and AI assistants more to read about your services and area.
Which should I set up first?
The Google Business Profile, because it is free and shows on Google Maps. Then a simple website, and link the two to each other.
Want to see what yours could look like? Ask for a free preview (no card), or run our free quick check on your current site, with do-it-yourself tips.
More guides
- How much does a website cost for a plumber, HVAC or roofing business? (2026)
- Does a small plumbing, HVAC or roofing business need a website?
- All guides
Last updated 2026-10-30. Written by Brightstoop with help from AI tools and checked before publishing (how we work).