Suspensions often occur due to sudden changes made to your business profile. The good news is that these issues can be resolved, if you’ve had your Google business profile suspended you might be asking why did this happen and how can you fix it? as this can seriously impact your visibility on search results and maps, which is frustrating for small businesses that rely on local traffic.

In this blog, we’ll explain:

  • The most common reasons for a Google business profile suspension
  • How to reinstate your GBP
  • What to avoid during the reinstatement process

What Is A Google Business Profile Suspension?

A Google business profile suspension means your listing has been flagged and removed. There are two main types:

  • Soft Suspension – Your listing is still visible to the public, but you can’t access it or make edits.
  • Hard Suspension – Your listing is removed from Google entirely.

Common Reasons For A Google Business Profile Suspension

1. Inaccurate Business Information

Google expects business listings to be clear and accurate. These are the common causes:

  • A virtual office, PO box or a co-working space is used as your business address
  • Your business name includes keywords not part of your registered name
  • Your service area business displays a physical address publicly

2. Violations of Google’s Guidelines

A few common violations include:

  • Misleading business information
  • Duplicate listings for the same location
  • Listing a business at a location where it doesn’t physically operate

Even unintentional violations can lead to suspension.

3. Frequent Changes

Updating your business name, address, hours or category especially all at once can trigger Google’s automated review systems, leading to a temporary suspension.

4. High Risk Industries

Some business types face more scrutiny due to high levels of spam and abuse. These include:

  • Locksmiths
  • Plumbers
  • Dog trainers
  • Electricians
  • Hvac

If you’re in one of these categories, your listing is more likely to be reviewed or suspended.

Steps To Fix A Suspended Google Business Profile

Follow these steps to fix a suspension and request reinstatement:

Step 1: Review Your Business Profile

Check for any violations or inconsistencies, such as:

  • Is your business name your actual, legal name?
  • Are you using a valid physical address (not virtual or shared)?
  • Is your business listed in the correct category?
  • Are you avoiding keyword stuffing or misleading descriptions?

Step 2: Provide Supporting Documents

To verify your business, Google may ask for:

  • Business registration or license
  • Utility bill showing your business address
  • Photos of your storefront, street signage etc

Step 3: Submit a Reinstatement Request

Once your profile is compliant, submit a Google business profile reinstatement form:

  • Be honest and truthful
  • Explain what may have caused the suspension
  • Describe what you’ve done to correct it

Step 4: Wait For Google To Respond

It usually takes Google between 3 to 5 business days to receive a response to your case. Avoid submitting multiple requests as this can delay the process.

What To Avoid

  • Don’t create a new listing
  • Don’t submit false information or documents
  • Don’t ignore the original cause of suspension

Final Thoughts

If your GBP has been suspended, start by figuring out what changes you made to your listing or try to pinpoint what may have caused the issue. Verify your business details are accurate and provide any necessary documents to support your case.