When your Google listing is suspended or deactivated, it can have a significant impact on your business.
Google listings can be suspended or deactivated for various reasons, often due to a failure to follow certain rules.
In this article, you will learn the main reasons why your listing may be suspended or deactivated, and you will find out which documents you need to submit to appeal reinstatement with Google.
Main causes of suspension
You listing can be suspended by Google for multiple reasons, which are often linked to its guidelines. Here is a list of the most frequent reasons:
1. Incorrect or inconsistent information
The given address of your business on the Google listing does not match with the physical location (e.g. a non-compliant mailbox or virtual address).
The phone number on the Google listing is generic or not local.
The business name includes keywords or advertising content.
2. Non-compliance with guidelines related to listings
The business sector is not eligible for Google listings (e.g. businesses that operate exclusively online).
There are duplicate listings.
Fake or fraudulent locations have been added.
3. Major changes to the listing
Several recent changes to the listing.
Update of sensitive listing information, such as address, name or general business category.
4. Reporting of the listing by other users
Multiple reports of the Google listing by customers or competitors.
Suspected identity theft or fraudulent activity.
5. Violation of content policies
Offensive, misleading, or illegal content in posts, descriptions and pictures.
Documents to provide when requesting a listing restoration
To submit a complete restoration request to Google, please send us the following documents in the name of the concerned business:
1) Proof of the business's legal existence
A proof of the business's legal existence is required, such as a business license or a tax certificate (issued within the last 3 months).
2) Proof of occupancy of the premises
The proof of occupancy can be provided through:
utility bills (electricity, water, internet, etc.) showing the business name and the exact address listed on the Google listing.
commercial lease agreement.
3) Proof that the address indicated on the listing is actually the place where the business activity is carried out.
Proof of address can be provided through:
Photo of the storefront with the sign visible.
Inside photos showing the business activity (counter, office, equipment, non-sensitive business documents, ecc.).
Screenshot of the website or another listing showing the same address.
⚠️ Important: all documents must be clear, unedited, and the information must exactly match the details provided on the suspended Google listing.
How do we proceed?
As soon as we receive your documents:
1. We verify data compliance.
2. We prepare a full report.
3. We submit an official appeal for reinstatement to Google.
4. We follow the process through to reinstatement (in case of rejection, we will update you promptly).
The processing time for your request with Google can range from a few days to several weeks.
We are here to help you
Although a suspension can be frustrating, in most cases it is not permanent. By promptly providing Google with solid evidence, you increase the chances of having your listing reinstated as quickly as possible.