Website Launch Checklist (UK): 41 Things to Do Before You Go Live in 2026

Launching a website is not just clicking publish. In the UK, you need the basics right: mobile usability, speed, SEO, tracking, and compliance. Use this checklist to avoid the most common launch mistakes.

SEO essentials

• Unique page title and meta description for every key page (Home, Services, Portfolio, Contact).
• One clear H1 per page (your main keyword + location if relevant).
• Clean URLs (short, readable, no random numbers).
• Image alt text for key images (describe the photo and context).
• Schema markup for LocalBusiness (name, phone, email, service area).
• XML sitemap available and submitted in Google Search Console.

Speed and performance

• Compress images (WebP if possible) and lazy-load non-critical media.
• Cache enabled (server or plugin).
• Minify CSS/JS if your stack supports it.
• Test on mobile data (4G) not only Wi‑Fi.

Tracking (UK business must-have)

• Google Analytics 4 installed.
• Google Search Console verified.
• Event tracking for contact actions: phone clicks, WhatsApp clicks, form submits.

Conversion checks

• Phone number is clickable on mobile (tel link).
• WhatsApp button works and includes a pre-filled message.
• Contact form works and shows a clear success message.
• Above-the-fold CTA is visible on phone screens.

Trust and compliance

• Privacy Policy page (GDPR/UK GDPR).
• Cookie notice if you use non-essential cookies/trackers.
• Terms page if you sell online.
• SSL active (HTTPS) and HTTP redirects to HTTPS.

Final checks

• Spell-check key pages.
• Test on Chrome + Safari (iPhone) + Android browser.
• Check forms, menus, and broken links.
• Set a backup routine (weekly minimum).

If you want a professional UK website delivered fast (and you pay only after you approve it), get in touch.