2026-09-22
How to ask for Google reviews without breaking the rules
Review requests work, but review gating and fake reviews can get you into trouble. A simple, compliant approach for small businesses.
Why asking matters
Most satisfied clients never leave a review unless they're asked. A short, polite request at the right moment makes a real difference.
What not to do
Don't filter who you ask based on whether they seem happy ('review gating'), don't offer incentives for reviews, and never post fake reviews. Google's policies prohibit these practices, and UK consumer law treats fake reviews seriously.
A simple compliant flow
Send every client the same message a few hours after their visit, with your direct Google review link, and at most one reminder.
Automating it
Automation makes sure nobody is forgotten and that everyone is asked in the same way, which keeps you on the right side of the rules.