20 Ways to Get Free Leads for Your Trade Business

Getting more leads doesn’t always mean spending more money and it doesn't have to be challenging or stressful. If you're a builder, plumber, landscaper, sparkie, roofer—or any kind of tradesperson—there are plenty of free ways to drum up work across the UK.

Here are 20 tried-and-tested ways to fill your diary without spending a penny 💪

1. ✅ Google Business Profile

Set up and optimise your Google Business Profile. Add photos, services, location areas, and get reviews—this boosts local visibility and helps you appear on Google Maps.

2. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Word of Mouth

Still one of the most powerful tools. Do a great job, be polite, turn up on time—and people will talk.

3. 🛠️ Facebook Community Groups

Post in local "Buy, Sell & Recommend" groups. Keep it helpful, not salesy. Share before/after pics of your work and join the conversation.

4. 📷 Post on Your Facebook Page

Have a business page and post regularly—photos of jobs, reviews, tips. Keep your name fresh in people's minds.

5. 📸 Instagram = Visual Proof

Trades are perfect for Instagram. Post job updates, time-lapses, and before/afters using local hashtags like #EssexPlumber or #BirminghamBuilder.

6. 🧱 Job Boards

Check local Facebook job boards and community hubs. Many people post looking for trades. Be first to reply!

7. 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates

Use your WhatsApp status to show off your work—friends and family often pass it on when someone asks for a recommendation.

8. 🏡 Nextdoor App

List your business on Nextdoor—a local app where neighbours recommend services. It’s growing fast in the UK.

9. 🌐 Free Online Directories

Add your business to sites like Yell, FreeIndex, and Thomson Local. Even the free listings can rank on Google.

10. 👕 Branded Clothing

Logo on your t-shirt or hoodie = free advertising. People will stop you in the street or café to ask for a quote.

11. 🧰 Branded Van

If you’ve got a van, make it your billboard. Park near jobs, in busy car parks, or at DIY stores.

12. 🧾 Ask for Reviews

Always ask happy customers for Google reviews. It builds trust and helps your Google listing show up more.

13. 🧑‍🏫 Trade Referrals

Link up with other trades—if you're a plasterer, refer a decorator, and vice versa. Build a local network and share leads.

14. 💬 Online Forums & Reddit

Get active in forums like Screwfix Community or the UKTrades subreddit. Share advice, answer questions, and quietly mention your services.

15. 📧 Email Your Past Customers

Drop a polite message to past clients offering a check-up or seasonal service—many will say yes or pass your name on.

16. 🏘️ Leaflet Drop (DIY Print)

Print 100 simple leaflets at home and post them around your street. Focus on your area to build a local reputation.

17. 🗣️ Speak to Local Businesses

Offer your services to estate agents, cafés, salons, or barbers—they're often asked for “a good local tradesperson”.

18. ✍️ Blog on Your Website

Write short, helpful blog posts like “5 Signs You Need a New Boiler” or “Best Patio Ideas”. Good for Google—and shows you know your stuff.

19. 📍 Add Location Tags to Posts

Always tag where the job is (town/village) in your social media posts. It helps people nearby find you when they search.

20. 🚀 Free Website Tools from SMB Booster

If you’ve already got a website, SMB Booster can add free quote forms, review widgets, and lead tools—even on your current site. Want help getting more leads without paid ads? That’s what we do 👉 smbbooster.co.uk

💥 Final Tip: Just Get Visible

You don’t need to do all 20 right away. Start with 3 or 4 and do them consistently. Free leads are out there—you’ve just got to put yourself where people are looking.

Need help getting your website to actually bring in leads?
Let’s chat 👉 smbbooster.co.uk