If you're a local contractor or service-based business, you already know how competitive it is to show up in search results—especially the Google Map Pack. You may have optimized your site and claimed your Google Business Profile, but you're still not ranking above the competition.
Here’s the problem: most small businesses ignore local link building, one of the most important strategies for improving local SEO and gaining trust with Google.
In this guide, we'll walk through effective, proven local link building strategies that help small businesses—like HVAC companies, plumbers, remodelers, and landscapers—rise in the rankings and attract more leads from nearby customers.
And if you're wondering how this fits into your broader SEO game plan, you can check out our Local SEO Services page to see how it all ties together.
What Is Local Link Building?
Local link building is the process of earning backlinks from locally relevant sources—think neighborhood blogs, regional news outlets, or business directories in your service area. These links tell search engines that your business is part of the local community, boosting your visibility in local search results.
Unlike general link building, which focuses on authority and global relevance, local link building emphasizes geographic relevance.
Why Local Links Matter
Backlinks are one of Google’s top-ranking factors. But for local businesses, links from local websites hold even more weight. Here’s why:
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They build trust with Google.
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They increase your authority in your service area.
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They help improve Google Business Profile rankings.
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They drive referral traffic from local customers.
Now, let’s break down exactly how to start earning them.
Top Local Link Building Strategies
1. Get Listed in Local Business Directories
Start with easy wins. Submitting your business to directories like:
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Chamber of Commerce websites
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Local BBB (Better Business Bureau)
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City-specific business listings
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Local contractor associations
These sites often have strong domain authority and are highly trusted by Google. Plus, they usually include a valuable backlink.
2. Partner with Local Charities or Events
Sponsoring or donating to a local event, nonprofit, or community group can get your business mentioned (and linked) on their website. These backlinks are often gold—hyperlocal and trustworthy.
Not sure where to start? Look for:
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School fundraisers
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Youth sports leagues
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Local 5Ks or charity runs
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Community clean-up events
You’ll support your neighborhood and earn valuable SEO points at the same time.
3. Join the Local Chamber of Commerce
Chambers of Commerce often include member directories that link directly to your site. These links are highly relevant and packed with local SEO value.
It also opens up networking opportunities that may lead to additional local backlinks down the road.
4. Be Featured in Local News Articles or Blogs
Pitch your business story to local reporters or bloggers. News sites and community blogs are excellent sources of strong local links. You can offer:
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Expert advice for seasonal maintenance tips
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Insight into industry trends (e.g., energy-efficient remodeling)
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A unique angle on how your business started or supports the community
Pro tip: Set up a Google Alert for your business and related topics to find opportunities for press coverage.
5. Collaborate with Related Local Businesses
Form partnerships with other non-competing businesses in your area. For example:
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An HVAC company linking to a local roofing contractor
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A bathroom remodeler partnering with a flooring supplier
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A landscaper cross-promoting with a fence builder
Swap links on blogs, service pages, or resource lists. It benefits both businesses and improves your SEO footprint.
6. Encourage Backlinks from Review Sites
Sites like Yelp, Angi, and Houzz offer profile links that boost both your credibility and rankings. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, and make sure your profiles are fully optimized with your website link.
7. Sponsor a Local Meetup or Industry Event
Local business networking groups often list sponsors on their event pages. Whether it's a contractor breakfast or a homeowners’ seminar, getting your name (and website) on that event page can drive traffic and SEO value.
How to Find Local Link Opportunities
Here are a few easy ways to identify places to earn local links:
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Search your competitors' backlinks using tools like Ahrefs or Semrush
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Look up your city + “business directory” in Google
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Set Google Alerts for your industry + city
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Monitor social media for local events needing sponsors
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Reach out directly to other business owners or local bloggers
The key is to think locally and build real relationships in your community.
Local Link Building Mistakes to Avoid
Even great strategies can backfire if done wrong. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
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Using low-quality or spammy directories
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Over-optimizing anchor text with exact-match keywords
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Buying links (especially from non-local sites)
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Ignoring nofollow links—even those can have referral or indirect SEO value
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Neglecting ongoing outreach—link building is not a one-time task
Avoiding these pitfalls will help you build a stronger, more sustainable local link profile.
How Link Building Fits into Your Local SEO Strategy
Local link building is just one piece of the SEO puzzle—but a powerful one.
Combined with optimized on-page content, a well-built website, and a fully enhanced Google Business Profile, it sends all the right signals to Google.
If you’re already investing in content or local SEO, adding a link building strategy will multiply your results over time.
Final Thoughts: Start Building Locally, Rank Higher Nationally
It’s tempting to chase big wins, but the real power often lies in your backyard.
Local link building helps Google see you as a trusted, relevant business in your community. It strengthens your entire SEO foundation—and more importantly—it drives real, qualified leads from people near you who are ready to hire.
If you want help building and executing a complete local SEO strategy that includes powerful backlink building, get in touch with us today. Let’s turn your website into a local lead-generating machine.