Recently, Google Guaranteed made a significant change that affects how businesses can manage their Local Services Ads and connect with local customers. They have removed the Local Services Ads mobile app from the market and disabled it for all existing users. This app was once a popular tool among contractors, allowing you to easily manage leads, track service requests, and communicate directly with potential clients.

So, what does this change mean for your restoration business? Let's break it down.

Why Did Google Remove the Local Services App?

The decision to remove the app is part of Google’s broader effort to streamline its services and improve the experience for both businesses and users. In a statement, Google emphasized that they plan to focus on making Local Services more integrated with other Google tools and services, such as Google Ads and Google My Business, rather than relying on a separate mobile app.

For contractors, this means you won’t be able to use the app to manage leads and disputes. However, Google has assured that these functions will still be available through the Google Ads dashboard, just not in the app format.

How Does This Affect Your Restoration Business?

While this change may seem disruptive, it doesn’t mean your restoration business is at a disadvantage. In fact, there are several ways to continue benefiting from Local Services Ads (LSAs) even without the app. Here’s what this change means for your business:

Continued Access to Local Services Ads (LSAs) 

The core functionality of Local Services Ads (LSAs) remains intact. LSAs continue to be an excellent tool for restoration businesses looking to connect with local customers who are actively searching for water damage restoration, roof repair, and other emergency services. These ads appear at the top of Google search results, making them one of the most effective ways to gain visibility in your local market.

The main difference now is that you’ll no longer be using the mobile app to manage your leads and ads. Instead, you will need to use the Google Local Services dashboard, which is accessible via any browser (desktop or mobile). Although the app is gone, the visibility and effectiveness of LSAs are still valuable.

Ad Management Shifts to Desktop 

Without the app, managing leads and ads will now be done on the Google Local Services dashboard via a desktop or mobile browser. For many contractors, this could take some time to adjust to, especially if they were used to handling everything on their mobile devices.

However, the Google Local Services dashboard is still a helpful tool, providing all the essential features such as lead management, dispute resolutions, and performance tracking. You’ll still be able to manage your ads, handle disputes, and see performance metrics, but you’ll need to use a browser instead of a mobile app.

Improved Integration with Google Ads and Google My Business

One of the potential benefits of this change is that Local Services will now be more integrated with other Google platforms. This means your Local Services Ads can work more seamlessly with your Google Ads campaigns and Google My Business profile. With this improved integration, you may find it easier to track your performance and reach a broader audience across different Google services.

The integration will also likely help you manage your online presence more effectively. By having all your tools linked together, you can monitor everything in one place, making it easier to optimize your marketing efforts.

A New Focus on Long-Term Success 

For restoration businesses, the transition away from the app provides an opportunity to refocus on long-term success. While the app made managing leads more convenient, you’ll now have to put more emphasis on optimizing your Google My Business profile, your Local Services Ads, and your overall online presence.

By adapting to the new system, you can continue to attract clients who need water damage restoration, roof repair, or other emergency services. This change might require some extra time and effort, but with the right approach, it could lead to even better results in the long run.

How to Adapt to the Change

Even though the Google Local Services app is gone, there are several strategies you can implement to ensure your restoration business remains competitive and successful. Here are some actionable tips for business owners, especially contractors who spend most of their day out in the field, to stay on top of their Google Local Services Ads (LSA) leads effectively without the mobile app:

1. Enable Email Notifications

Make sure your email notifications for new leads are turned on. This way, you’ll get instant updates when a potential customer contacts you. If email isn’t ideal, you can also set up push notifications through your email app to ensure you never miss an opportunity.

2. Dedicate Time Blocks for Lead Management

Schedule specific times during the day to review and respond to leads. For example:

• Check leads early in the morning before heading out to job sites.
• Allocate time during lunch or coffee breaks to follow up.
• Do a final review at the end of the workday.
• Creating a routine ensures that lead management becomes a consistent part of your day.

3. Delegate Lead Management

If your schedule is packed, consider assigning a team member or hiring a virtual assistant to monitor and respond to leads on your behalf. Ensure they are trained to answer basic inquiries and schedule consultations or estimates.

4. Use Call Forwarding or a CRM Tool

The easiest and most effective way to manage your leads is to answer the phone! Make sure you have someone dedicated to answering your phone and collecting lead details. Leverage call-forwarding features to route LSA calls directly to your phone or office line. Additionally, consider integrating your leads with a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool that can organize and notify you about new opportunities.

5. Utilize Voice Assistants

If you’re driving or on a job, use your phone’s voice assistant to check emails, set reminders to follow up on leads, or even dictate quick responses.

Conclusion

The removal of the Google Local Services mobile app might seem like a change for the worse, but it's not the end of the world for your restoration business. The main functions of Local Services Ads remain intact, and you can still use the platform to find valuable leads and grow your business. Stay adaptable and take the time to explore the new system to ensure that your restoration services continue to stand out in local search results.

How Vinnie Mac Restoration Marketing Can Help

Navigating changes like the removal of the Google Local Services mobile app can be challenging for restoration businesses. At Vinnie Mac Restoration Marketing, we specialize in helping businesses like yours stay ahead of digital marketing trends and ensure your online presence remains strong.

We can guide you through managing your LSA leads and optimizing your LSA profile. With our expertise, you’ll maximize your visibility, attract more local customers, and adapt to the evolving digital marketing landscape.

If you're unsure about how these changes affect your restoration business, contact us today. We’ll help you navigate this transition smoothly, so your business can continue to thrive.