How to Claim Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
How to Claim Your Google Business Profile (GBP) and Start Ranking in Google’s Local Map Pack
If you run a landscaping or tree service business, you don’t have time to “figure out marketing.” You want the phone to ring.
The fastest way to do that? Claim your Google Business Profile (GBP).
That’s the box that shows up when someone types “landscaper near me” or “retaining walls in [city], [state}.”
If you don’t own it, you’re invisible.
Why this matters:
46% of all Google searches are local (Google).
The Local Map Pack (those 3 listings above the websites) shows up in 93% of local searches (SEO Tribunal).
78% of local mobile searches lead to a purchase within 24 hours (Google).
👉 Translation: If you want landscaping jobs, you’ve got to be in the Map Pack. The average landscaping job is worth $3,648 (Angi). Even one new customer a month from Google = $40k+ a year.
And it all starts by claiming your GBP.
Step 1. Search for Your Business on Google Maps
Type in your business name.
If you see “Own this business?” → it’s unclaimed.
📌 Example: Type “[Your Company Name City, State].”
If that button shows up, Google doesn’t know who owns it.
That means calls could be leaking to competitors.
👉 Google Support: Claim your business
Step 2. Click “Own this business?”
Hit the button.
Follow the prompts. It takes 2–3 minutes.
Think of it like putting your name on your truck: until you do, it doesn’t really belong to you.
👉 Google Support: Claim your business
Step 3. Verify Your Business
Google wants proof you’re real.
Verification options:
Phone call or text (instant, if available) If your business profile has been around for a while but unclaimed, it will likely have the option to verify with a phone call.
Email verification (sometimes offered) The email verification option is often present alongside the call verification option. In most cases, this is only available to listings that have been active but unclaimed.
Video recording (upload) In 2025, most new profiles and address changes seem to have a high likelihood of triggering video verification without any other options although it’s possible to consistently avoid this with this process:
→ Upload one continuous video showing:
Your location (street signs, landmarks)
Your business exists (signage, trucks, tools)
You manage it (unlocking doors, invoices, equipment access)
Google usually reviews verification videos in a few days.
👉 Verify your Business Profile
👉 Verify with a video recording
Step 4. Access Your Dashboard
Once verified, go to 👉 business.google.com.
Here’s what you can (and should) do:
Add service areas (up to 20 nearby cities)
Upload logo + photos of your work
Set categories + services
Update hours & special hours
Collect & respond to reviews
Keep in mind:
Google states that a video verification for a Business Profile can take up to 5 business days for review. However, in some cases, it may be approved instantly.
This blog:
👉 5 Quick Wins to Boost Your Landscaping Business on Google provides visuals and step-by-step instructions landscaper's can take advantage of to optimize their GBP and immediately see improvements.
Why Claiming Your GBP Is Non-Negotiable
GBP is the #1 local ranking factor — proximity + reviews + complete info decide who shows up (Moz Local Search Ranking Factors).
56% of local businesses haven’t claimed their profile (Search Engine Journal). Half your competition hasn’t even started.
Homeowners trust GBP more than a random website. Reviews + photos = instant credibility.
💡 Bottom line: If you don’t claim it, you’re leaving money on the table.
Quick FAQ
What if someone else claimed my GBP? → You can request ownership (Google Support).
What if I don’t have a storefront? → Service-area businesses (like landscapers) can still show up (Google Support).
What if the postcard never shows up? → Try phone, email, or video verification.
Crafted Click Is Here To Help
Claim it. Verify it. Own it.
This is step one in Landscaping SEO — and it’s free.
If you’re not sure whether your GBP is claimed or verified, we'll show you. Our free audit tells you in seconds.
OR
👉 [Book a FREE - Google Audit Review Call] — and we'll review your GBP Audit, show you the easy wins and map out how to get you in the Local Map Pack where the real money is.
