How to Get More Local Clients Without Spending Money on Ads (NZ Guide) - Chimney Sweep

Chimney sweep professionals in New Zealand can grow their local client base without spending a bean on advertising. By using smart, no-cost strategies that build trust and visibility in Kiwi communities, you can get booked more often and build a reliable referral network. Here are 10 practical and friendly tips tailored just for chimney sweepers looking to attract more local clients naturally.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Set Up a Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile is your free front door to local clients searching for chimney cleaning and inspection services near them.

Make sure your profile is fully filled out with accurate contact details, photos of your work, and a clear list of services like sweep, repair, and safety checks.

Encourage customers to leave reviews-Kiwis put a lot of weight on online testimonials when choosing trusted professionals.

2. List on Trusted NZ Directories

Websites like Builderscrack, Trade Me Services, NoCowboys, and Localist are some of the first places Kiwis look for chimney sweepers.

Set up free profiles showcasing your skills and feedback from happy customers to attract enquiries.

These directories quietly generate leads day and night.

3. Join Local Facebook Groups

Community Facebook groups like "Christchurch Locals" and "Auckland Community" are full of residents asking for local trades recommendations.

Offer helpful tips about chimney maintenance or signs your chimney needs a sweep, without coming across as pushy.

This builds your credibility as a caring local expert who genuinely helps the community.

4. Engage with Neighbourly

Neighbourly is uniquely Kiwi, encouraging neighbours to connect and share trusted service recommendations.

Posting useful info such as chimney safety tips, seasonal maintenance advice, or reminders helps build your reputation locally.

Though it’s slower-paced, this platform builds genuine relationships over time, leading to steady referrals.

5. Leverage Yada's Fee-Free Platform

Yada connects chimney sweep professionals with local clients posting jobs, without charging any lead or success fees.

Respond to job requests based on your rating and chat directly with clients to provide quotes and clarifications.

Its mobile-friendly design fits busy Kiwis perfectly and helps you secure more work effortlessly.

6. Ask for Reviews and Referrals

After each chimney sweep job, ask clients to leave a quick Google review or provide referral contacts.

Positive word-of-mouth spreads fast in New Zealand communities and brings new clients your way.

Offering small referral rewards like discounts for both the referrer and referee can motivate clients to recommend you.

7. Network with Property Managers and Builders

Builders and property managers regularly require chimney maintenance and safety checks for rental homes and new builds.

Establishing relationships with these professionals can provide you with consistent local referrals and contracts.

For example, a chimney sweep in Wellington might partner with property managers handling multiple homes to secure regular jobs.

8. Post Flyers on Community Boards

Traditional flyers on noticeboards in supermarkets, libraries, and community centres still resonate with many Kiwis, especially older homeowners.

Keep the flyer clean and simple with your service list, business contact info, and an inviting image or logo.

People often snap photos to save your details for when they need chimney services.

9. Share Seasonal Maintenance Tips Online

Sharing posts like “Preparing your chimney for winter” or “How often should you get your chimney swept?” educates your community and builds trust.

Post on Facebook, Instagram, and local forums where homeowners seek advice.

This kind of helpful, non-salesy content keeps you top of mind when clients need a chimney sweep.

10. Follow Up Past Clients

Reach out to previous customers with friendly reminders about upcoming chimney maintenance or safety inspections.

This extra care often leads to repeat bookings and solidifies lasting relationships.

Many chimney sweepers miss this easy step that can make a big difference over time.