5 Ways Pest Control Businesses Can Get More Google Reviews in 2026

Why Google Reviews Are Everything for Pest Control

When someone finds a spider the size of their hand in the bathroom at 10pm, they're Googling "pest control near me" and calling whoever has the most reviews and the highest rating. That's the game.

Australian pest control businesses with 50+ Google reviews get 3x more calls than those with fewer than 10. Here's how to build your review count fast.

1. Ask at the Right Moment

The best time to ask for a review is immediately after service — when the customer is relieved their cockroach problem is solved. Not a week later when they've forgotten about you.

Send an automated SMS within 2 hours of job completion with a direct link to your Google review page. Keep it simple: "Thanks for choosing us! If you're happy with the service, a quick Google review helps us heaps: [link]"

2. Make It Dead Simple

Every extra click you add loses 50% of potential reviewers. Use a direct review link (search "Google Place ID finder" to get yours) that opens the review form immediately. Don't send them to your website first.

3. Automate the Follow-Up

Use a CRM like Kabooyaa to automatically send review requests after every completed job. Set up a sequence: SMS at 2 hours, email at 24 hours if no review yet, and a final SMS at 72 hours. Most reviews come from the first message.

4. Respond to Every Single Review

Yes, even the 5-star ones that just say "Great service." Google's algorithm rewards businesses that engage with reviews. A simple "Thanks [name], glad we could help!" takes 10 seconds and boosts your ranking.

5. Handle Negative Reviews Like a Pro

Don't argue. Don't get defensive. Respond publicly with empathy, acknowledge the issue, and offer to make it right offline. Future customers care more about how you handle complaints than the complaint itself.

FAQ

How many Google reviews does a pest control business need?

Aim for at least 50 reviews to be competitive in most Australian suburbs. In competitive metro areas like Sydney or Melbourne, top-ranking pest control businesses typically have 100-200+ reviews.

Can I offer incentives for Google reviews?

No. Google's policies prohibit offering discounts, gifts, or payments in exchange for reviews. You can (and should) ask for reviews, but you cannot incentivise them. Focus on making it easy and asking at the right time.

How do I get a direct Google review link?

Search for your business on Google, click "Write a review," and copy the URL. Or use the Google Place ID finder tool and construct the link: https://search.google.com/local/writereview?placeid=YOUR_PLACE_ID