How to build a plumbing profile on Websta in the UK

What your Websta profile should contain

Your Websta profile page works as a simple website for your plumbing business. It displays your contact details, a description of what you do, photos of your work or your van, a list of the services you offer, your prices (which you set yourself), and a way for customers to book or request a quote. You do not need to write much text; keep descriptions short and clear so people can find what they need quickly.

Start with a profile photo or a photo of your van or workspace - something that shows you are a real tradesperson. Add 3 to 5 photos of completed work if you have them: a kitchen installation, a bathroom refit, a boiler repair, or pipework. These help people see the standard of your work. If you do not have photos yet, take a few on your next jobs with the customer's permission.

List your main services: emergency call-outs, burst pipes, boiler servicing, central heating repairs, bathroom installation, kitchen plumbing, radiator replacement, tap repairs, drainage clearance, or whatever you actually do. Be honest about what you offer. You can add more services later as your profile grows.

Booking, quotes and contact methods

On Websta, customers can either book an appointment with you directly (if you set up online booking) or request a quote, which you can then discuss with them. You choose which method suits your work. For plumbing, most jobs need a site visit before you can give a price, so a quote request form or contact form often makes more sense than instant booking. Websta's profile includes a contact form where customers can send you a message with details of their problem.

You can also use the marketplace feature on Websta: customers post a task describing their plumbing problem, and you can make an offer on jobs near you. This works well for emergency repairs or specific jobs where you want to compete with other plumbers for the work.

Which language to use

Publish your profile in English. The vast majority of plumbing customers in the United Kingdom search in English, and Websta's main language for the UK market is English. If you speak other languages, you can mention that in your profile description if it helps you reach customers in your area, but your main service descriptions, opening hours and pricing should be in English.

How customers search for plumbers on Websta

On Websta's marketplace, customers search for plumbing services by entering their postcode or town. They can filter results by service type - for example, 'emergency plumbing' or 'central heating repair' - and by location. Websta also has a profile directory where customers can browse plumbers in your area. When you set up your profile, make sure you enter your town or service area correctly so customers nearby can find you.

People also search by what they need fixed: a leaking tap, a boiler problem, a blocked drain. Make sure your service descriptions use clear, everyday language that matches what customers would search for. Instead of jargon, describe what you fix and what the customer gets done.

Business registration and legal requirements

Before you take work through Websta or any other platform, check that you have the right business structure and paperwork in place. If you are a sole trader (working under your own name), you should register with HM Revenue and Customs for self-assessment tax. If you operate under a business name, you may need to register that name depending on your circumstances - check with your local authority or the UK government's guidance on business names.

Some plumbing work requires Gas Safe registration if you work on gas boilers or gas pipework. Check whether your type of work falls under Gas Safe requirements. You should also have public liability insurance to protect yourself if something goes wrong on a customer's property. These are not optional extras; they are standard requirements for working in the UK.

Payment on Websta goes directly to your bank account through Stripe, the payment processor. You set your own prices and handle invoicing and tax yourself. Keep records of all work you do through the platform for your tax return.

What to write in your first hour

When you first set up your Websta profile, do not try to make it perfect. Write enough to get started, then improve it as you go. In your first hour, aim to write a one-sentence description of what you do, list 5 to 8 main services, add your phone number and email, set your service area (your town or towns within a reasonable distance), and upload one or two photos if you have them. That is enough to go live.

Your description could be as simple as 'Emergency plumbing, boiler repairs, bathroom installation, central heating. Covering the [your area].' Add your prices for standard services if you have fixed rates, or say 'Quote on request' if each job varies. Customers will understand that.

Once your profile is live, you can add more photos, write longer descriptions, and refine what you offer based on the enquiries you get. Do not spend hours writing before anyone can see you. Start small and build.

Setting your prices and managing bookings

You decide what you charge. Look at what other plumbers in your area charge for similar work, but set prices that reflect your experience and the cost of running your business. If you work emergency call-outs, you can set different rates for out-of-hours work. You can add notes like 'Call for availability' or 'Emergency rates apply after 6 p.m. and weekends.'

When customers contact you through Websta, respond quickly - within a few hours if you can. A prompt reply builds trust and increases the chance they will book you. If you need to give a quote in person, arrange a convenient time and confirm it with them. Keep the booking or quote process simple and clear.