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How to Remove a Google Maps Location: The Definitive Guide

Removing a location from Google Maps isn’t always straightforward, but it’s definitely possible. The process depends on whether you own the business listing, or are trying to remove a location that is incorrect, outdated, or otherwise problematic. This article will walk you through the specific steps, potential hurdles, and frequently asked questions to ensure you navigate the process successfully.

The Short Answer: Removing a Google Maps Location

The method for removing a Google Maps location depends on your affiliation with that location.

For Business Owners: If you own or manage the business, you can permanently close the location through your Google Business Profile dashboard. This effectively removes it from Google Maps while still indicating its historical presence.
For General Users: If you are not the owner, you can “Suggest an edit” to mark the place as “permanently closed” or “doesn’t exist”. Google will then review the suggestion, and if approved, remove or modify the listing. This process relies on Google’s verification process and can take time.

Let’s dive deeper into the specifics.

Removing Your Business Listing: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re the owner or manager of the business you want to remove from Google Maps, follow these steps:

Access Your Google Business Profile: Go to Google Business Profile Manager (formerly Google My Business) and sign in using the Google account associated with your business listing. If you don’t know which account, use Google’s account recovery options or reach out to Google support.
Select the Correct Location: If you manage multiple locations, ensure you select the correct one from your dashboard.
Mark as Permanently Closed:
- Navigate to the “Info” tab in your dashboard.
- Look for the “Close or remove this listing” option. It may be under “Business on Google.”
- Select “Mark as permanently closed.”
Follow the Prompts: You’ll be asked to confirm your decision. Read the confirmation carefully before proceeding.
Alternatively, “Remove listing”: The new Google Business Profile interface sometimes offers the “Remove listing” option directly. This removes the listing entirely. Choose this option only if the business never existed at that location or you want to completely erase its online presence.

Important Considerations:

“Permanently Closed” vs. “Removed”: Marking as “permanently closed” is generally preferred. It informs customers that the business is no longer operating at that location but maintains valuable historical data like reviews, which can still benefit your brand if you reopen in a new location. “Removed” is a more drastic action.
Ownership Verification: Google might require you to verify your ownership again before allowing you to close or remove the listing. This usually involves receiving a postcard with a verification code, a phone call, or an email.
Timing: It might take a few days for the changes to reflect on Google Maps.

Suggesting an Edit for Locations You Don’t Own

If you’re not the owner of the location, you’ll need to suggest an edit to Google Maps:

Find the Location on Google Maps: Search for the business name and location on Google Maps.
“Suggest an Edit”: On the business listing, scroll down to find the “Suggest an edit” link. It is typically located toward the bottom of the information panel.
Choose the Appropriate Option:
- “Close or remove”: Select this option if the business is permanently closed, has moved to a new location, or never existed.
- “Change name or other details”: Choose this if the information is incorrect (e.g., wrong phone number, incorrect address).
Provide Details: Explain why you are suggesting the edit. Be as specific and accurate as possible. Attach evidence if available (e.g., a photo of a “closed” sign, a news article announcing the business closure).
Submit: Once you’ve provided the necessary information, submit your edit.

Important Considerations:

Accuracy is Key: Google is more likely to approve edits that are supported by accurate and verifiable information.
Patience is Required: Google’s review process can take time, ranging from a few days to several weeks. You might not receive direct notification of the outcome, so periodically check the listing to see if your suggested edit has been implemented.
Multiple Submissions: If your initial edit is not approved, try again, providing additional supporting evidence. Consider asking others to also suggest the same edit to increase the chances of approval.
Report Inappropriate Content: If the listing contains offensive, misleading, or illegal content, use the “Report a problem” option to flag it for Google’s attention.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Can’t Claim Your Business Profile: If you can’t claim your business profile because someone else has already claimed it, initiate the ownership dispute process through Google Business Profile Manager. You’ll need to provide documentation proving your ownership.
Edits Not Approved: If your edits are consistently rejected, ensure you’re providing accurate information and supporting evidence. Contact Google support for further assistance.
Duplicate Listings: If there are duplicate listings for the same business, report them to Google through the “Suggest an edit” feature.
Outdated Information: If information like hours of operation or contact details is incorrect, use the “Suggest an edit” feature to update it.

FAQs: Your Google Maps Listing Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to provide even greater clarity.

1. How long does it take for a Google Maps location to be removed after suggesting an edit?

The timeframe varies considerably. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the volume of edit requests Google is processing and the complexity of the verification needed.

2. Can I remove a Google Maps location if it’s a home address?

Yes, if your home address is incorrectly listed as a business or public place, you can request its removal. Use the “Suggest an edit” feature, clearly stating that it is a residential address and should not be publicly displayed. This falls under privacy concerns, and Google is generally responsive to such requests.

3. What if I don’t have a Google account? Can I still suggest an edit?

No, you need a Google account to suggest an edit on Google Maps. This is because Google needs to track edits and potentially contact you for further information. Creating a Google account is free and simple.

4. How do I handle fake or defamatory reviews on a Google Maps listing?

You can’t directly remove reviews. Instead, respond professionally to address the concerns raised. If the review violates Google’s review policies (e.g., contains offensive language, is clearly fake), you can flag it for review. Google will investigate and remove the review if it violates their policies.

5. Can I temporarily hide my business location on Google Maps?

Yes, if you are temporarily closed (e.g., for renovations or a seasonal break), you can mark your business as temporarily closed in your Google Business Profile. This will inform customers that you are not currently open.

6. What happens to my Google Maps listing if my business permanently moves to a new location?

Update the address in your Google Business Profile. This will move the pin on Google Maps to the new location. Ensure you update all other relevant information, such as phone number and website, to reflect the change.

7. How do I claim a business listing that already exists on Google Maps?

Search for your business on Google Maps. If a listing exists but is unclaimed, click the “Claim this business” or “Own this business?” link on the listing. You’ll be guided through the verification process, which usually involves verifying your ownership via phone, email, or postcard.

8. Is it possible to remove a Google Maps location that is causing me personal harm or harassment?

Yes, if the listing is being used to harass or endanger you, report it to Google immediately. Explain the situation clearly and provide any supporting evidence. You may also consider contacting local law enforcement.

9. What is the difference between “Mark as permanently closed” and “Remove listing”?

“Mark as permanently closed” indicates that the business is no longer operating at that location but retains the listing’s historical data (e.g., reviews). “Remove listing” completely removes the listing from Google Maps, erasing its online presence.

10. How do I deal with a business listing that is using my business name and details without my permission?

Report the listing to Google as a trademark infringement. You’ll need to provide proof of your trademark ownership. Google will investigate and take action against the infringing listing.

11. Can I restore a Google Maps location that was accidentally removed?

Possibly, if you accidentally removed your listing, contact Google support immediately. Explain the situation and provide any relevant information. They may be able to restore the listing, but there’s no guarantee.

12. Will removing my Google Maps location affect my SEO?

Yes, removing your Google Maps listing can negatively affect your SEO, as it reduces your online visibility. Consider the impact carefully before removing a listing, especially if it has positive reviews and contributes to your online presence. Consider marking it “Permanently Closed” rather than complete removal.

Removing a location from Google Maps requires understanding the process and adhering to Google’s guidelines. By following the steps outlined in this guide and addressing the common questions, you can effectively manage your online presence and ensure accurate information is displayed on Google Maps. Remember to always provide accurate information and supporting evidence to ensure your request is processed efficiently.