How much does SEO cost?
SEO pricing varies depending on the level of work required, competition, and business goals. Packages typically start from a few hundred pounds per month for smaller businesses and scale up for more complex campaigns. Costs reflect the time, tools, and expertise needed to deliver meaningful results. A good provider should offer transparent pricing, clearly explain what’s included, and show how the budget is used to drive rankings, traffic, and enquiries over time. Cheaper SEO often leads to poor outcomes, while quality work provides long-term value.
Is there a minimum contract period?
Some SEO agencies offer flexible, rolling monthly contracts, while others request a minimum commitment — often three to six months. This allows enough time for changes to take effect and deliver measurable results. SEO is a long-term investment, so short trials may not show the full benefit. Reputable providers will explain their contract terms upfront and give businesses the chance to review progress regularly. It’s always advisable to clarify notice periods and cancellation policies before signing up.
What’s included in your SEO packages?
SEO packages typically include technical optimisation, keyword research, on-page content improvements, metadata updates, backlink building, local SEO setup, and monthly reporting. Higher-tier packages may also include blog writing, conversion tracking, and more advanced competitor analysis. What’s included depends on the size of the website and business goals. A good SEO provider will tailor the package to meet specific needs rather than offer a one-size-fits-all approach, ensuring the most important work is prioritised.
Can I start small and scale up?
Yes. Many businesses begin with a smaller SEO package to establish foundations, then increase their investment as results begin to show. This allows for a manageable budget while still addressing the most urgent SEO issues. Starting small might involve basic on-site optimisation, key local targeting, or technical clean-up. Once the website begins ranking better and enquiries grow, campaigns can be scaled with more content, link building, or geographic targeting to accelerate growth.
Is there a setup fee?
Some providers charge an initial setup fee, especially if the project involves a large audit, keyword research, or technical fixes at the start. Others include this work in the first month’s package. Setup fees help cover the time needed to get a campaign off the ground properly. Whether charged separately or not, all early-stage SEO work should be clearly explained so businesses understand what’s being done and why it’s necessary for long-term success.
Do you offer any guarantees?
Most reputable SEO providers do not offer ranking guarantees, as search engine algorithms are outside their control. Instead, they focus on transparency, clear deliverables, and consistent performance improvements. Guaranteed rankings are often a red flag and can indicate poor or risky practices. A trustworthy SEO strategy will deliver value over time through improved traffic, leads, and return on investment — not false promises.
What kind of ROI can I expect?
Return on investment varies depending on the industry, competition, and how well the campaign is executed. However, well-implemented SEO typically delivers strong long-term value by reducing reliance on paid ads and generating ongoing organic traffic. Businesses can expect to see increased website visibility, more targeted enquiries, and higher-quality leads. Over time, these gains compound, often making SEO one of the most cost-effective digital marketing investments available — particularly when measured against lead generation or customer acquisition costs.
Can SEO work for my small business or start-up?
Yes. In fact, SEO can be especially powerful for small businesses and start-ups looking to compete with larger brands. A well-optimised website can generate targeted local traffic, build trust, and attract customers without relying heavily on paid advertising. Smaller businesses benefit from local SEO, niche keyword targeting, and content strategies that highlight their unique services. Starting early with SEO helps build online authority from the beginning, supporting long-term growth.
Do you offer discounts for Birmingham-based organisations or charities?
Some SEO agencies offer discounts or bespoke pricing for local Birmingham-based organisations, especially charities or community-focused initiatives. This often reflects a commitment to supporting the local business community. Discounts may be available for registered charities, non-profits, or small businesses operating within specific postcodes. It’s worth asking providers directly, as terms vary and offers may depend on available capacity or funding.
Are there any hidden fees?
A trustworthy SEO provider should be fully transparent about pricing from the start. There should be no hidden fees — all work, reporting, tools, and support included in the package should be clearly listed. Any optional extras, such as additional content writing or local landing page builds, should be quoted separately. Always request a detailed breakdown to avoid surprises and ensure the investment aligns with your expectations and goals.
