Missed-call text templates for plumbers & HVAC.
Eight copy-and-paste texts for the calls you can’t pick up. Swap in your shop name and booking link. Each one gives the caller one clear next step and a way to opt out.
Rules of thumb: say who you are, give one or two next steps, keep it under 160 characters if you can, and always include STOP. Don’t promise a callback time you can’t keep.
The all-rounder
Hey, this is {BusinessName}. Sorry we missed your call — we're probably under a sink or on a ladder. Reply YES and we'll call you back, or book here: {BookingLink} Reply STOP to opt out
Works for almost any shop. Two next steps, one opt-out. · about 185 characters before your name and link are filled in (2 SMS segments)
Booking link only
Hi, it's {BusinessName} — sorry we missed you! Grab a time that works here: {BookingLink} Reply STOP to opt out
Short. Best when your calendar is up to date. · about 111 characters before your name and link are filled in (1 SMS segment)
Callback only
Hi, this is {BusinessName}. Missed your call — we're on a job. Reply YES and we'll call you back as soon as we're free. Reply STOP to opt out
For shops that don't use online booking yet. · about 141 characters before your name and link are filled in (1 SMS segment)
Urgent-first (plumbing)
This is {BusinessName}. Sorry we missed you! If water is leaking, shut off the main valve and reply URGENT — we'll call you right back. Otherwise book here: {BookingLink} STOP to opt out
Only promise a fast callback if you can keep it. · about 186 characters before your name and link are filled in (2 SMS segments)
Heat/AC season (HVAC)
Hi, it's {BusinessName}. Sorry we missed your call — busy day out here. Reply YES for a callback or book a visit: {BookingLink} Reply STOP to opt out
Keeps it calm when the phone won't stop. · about 149 characters before your name and link are filled in (1 SMS segment)
After hours
Thanks for calling {BusinessName}. We're closed right now. Reply with what's going on and we'll get back to you first thing, or book here: {BookingLink} STOP to opt out
Sets the expectation honestly. · about 168 characters before your name and link are filled in (2 SMS segments)
Ask for details
Hi, this is {BusinessName} — sorry we missed you. What's going on and what's the address? We'll text or call back shortly. Reply STOP to opt out
Gets the job details in writing before you call. · about 144 characters before your name and link are filled in (1 SMS segment)
Estimate request
Hi, it's {BusinessName}. Missed your call — if you're after a quote, reply with a photo and a short description and we'll get back to you. STOP to opt out
Photos save you a truck roll. · about 154 characters before your name and link are filled in (1 SMS segment)
Want it to happen automatically?
CatchMissed sends your chosen text to every missed caller in under a minute — on the phone you already use. $149 setup, then $79/month.
After you pay, Mo emails you within one business day to schedule your setup call.
Questions
How long should a missed-call text be?
Aim for one SMS segment: 160 characters with plain letters and numbers. An emoji or curly quote switches the whole message to a 70-character-per-segment encoding, so longer texts get split into more parts.
Do I need to include STOP?
Including a clear opt-out like “Reply STOP to opt out” is standard practice and expected by carriers. This isn’t legal advice — check the rules that apply to your business.
Can I send these automatically?
Yes — that’s what missed-call text back does. CatchMissed sets it up on the phone you already use, with your wording and booking link.