Many businesses wonder if sharing an address affects their Google presence. The good news is Google allows this in some cases. Nearby stores or offices can both be found at one location. Their policies aim to show users where companies are while keeping listings accurate. With the right information, Google can feature multiple listings in one spot.
In this blog post, we will cover can two businesses have the same address on Google and the potential challenges of sharing an address. We will also cover Google policies and guidelines and how to report a duplicate business listing on Google.
Also, read our blog about How You Easily Register a Company in Cambodia
Can Two Businesses Have The Same Address on Google
In some cases, it is possible for two businesses to have the same address on Google. While there are guidelines from Google. Each must be its own company and have separate paperwork like taxes and permits.
It’s best if they have their own entrances and areas, too. That way, customers know which one they’re visiting. Sharing an address can cause problems if Google doesn’t see the businesses as separate. It’s always safest to have an address just for your company.
Potential Challenges of Sharing an Address
Having multiple businesses tied to one location on Google can present some difficulties if not set up correctly. Most notably:
1. Visibility Impact
Google’s algorithms aim to show the most relevant listings to users. When companies share real estate, the search engine may have trouble deciding which is most appropriate. As a result, some listings risk being hidden on maps or lower in search results.
This could negatively influence foot traffic and new customer acquisition. To reduce visibility issues, each entity needs clear separation and unique online profiles.
2. Suspension Risk
Google wants customers to easily find the right business at an address. If entities seem unclear or lack true distinction, they may issue suspensions. This could mean removing profiles until operational independence is proven.
The threat of suspension is concerning as it damages an operation’s online presence when potential patrons search. Proactively ensuring each operation meets Google’s standards helps reduce these risks. With separate branding, ownership paperwork, and even separate doors, suspension worries can be minimized.
3. Eligibility Criteria
Google looks at several factors to determine if businesses co-located actually qualify as distinct. Things like independent licenses, invoices, employees, and inventory stored on-site can all help satisfy their criteria.
Other signs like unique signage visible from the street, separate entrances clearly marked, and exclusive spaces inside also assist eligibility.
Meeting these types of standards gives each company its own legitimate identity at a shared location in Google’s view. Making eligibility clear lowers the chance of facing issues down the road.
4. Penalties
If Google decides multiple listings don’t represent real separation, penalties may result. The strictest is a full suspension where profiles and reviews disappear from search. This can be very damaging since new customers won’t find you easily.
Lesser consequences involve missing out on local pack placement or map pin visibility. It’s always best to follow the guidelines closely and ensure each business is entirely independent to avoid unwanted penalties.
5. Service Area Businesses
For service businesses like plumbers or electricians that operate out of vehicles, Google hasn’t set firm policies against multiple listings from one address. However, they may keep a closer eye on these types of businesses and hand out suspensions more readily if listings seem too similar.
Even if they are legally separate companies, it’s a good idea for service-focused businesses to establish some kind of unique headquarters or meeting spots to avoid any issues with Google down the road. Distinct branding is also important.
6. SEO Impact
When companies share a location online, search engines face a challenge to understand who’s who. This can negatively influence local SEO efforts.
Google may prioritize just one listing, potentially hiding additional profiles until users zoom deeper. Fewer clicks could result in lower visibility over time. It also becomes difficult to rank multiple entities targeting the same keywords.
By establishing each business as a unique authority, this SEO impact can be minimized. Distinct websites, citations, and profiles help search engines differentiate identities.
Google’s Policies and Guidelines
Google aims to provide users with relevant, accurate information to meet their needs. With multiple businesses at one location, their algorithms must determine how to represent each appropriately. Some key policies help avoid issues:
- Google looks for true independent operations with separate ownership, licenses, and signage.
- Service area businesses may find their own headquarters or meeting spots to strengthen legitimacy.
- Following guidelines gives search engines confidence that listings match unique entities.
Taking steps to prove independence and distinction according to Google’s policies and guidelines helps both customers and companies by keeping accurate information on full display.
How to File a Google Report for a Duplicate Business Listing
If you notice an inaccurate or duplicate listing on Google that needs reporting, there is a straightforward process to request a correction.
- First, you’ll want to carefully inspect the extra listing and verify it does not represent a legitimate separate business.
- Then head to Google’s Support page and select “Report a problem.”
- Next, choose the “Report a duplicate or inaccurate listing” option and provide your business name.
- You’ll then be asked to enter details about the duplicate, such as address and business information.
- Finally, include a brief explanation of the issue and submit the form.
A Google representative will review your report and determine if any changes are needed. In some cases, they may request additional verification from you as well. Patience is key, as it can take some time, but reporting duplicates is important to keep local information accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do you differentiate between multiple businesses with the same address on Google?
When multiple businesses share an address, it’s important to clearly set them apart on Google. Distinct names, categories, descriptions, websites and citations can help differentiate profiles. Unique branding, logos, signage visible from the street also assist search engines in recognizing each as an independent operation. Meeting Google’s eligibility standards reduces the risk of suspensions.
Can 2 businesses share the same address?
While two businesses can list the same address, each must prove its own legitimacy to Google as a separate entity through individual licenses, ownership, inventory, and staff. Proper differentiation in online profiles also helps search engines optimize listings for customers.
Can 2 businesses have the same name?
Sharing a name makes differentiation very difficult for search engines and patrons. To avoid issues, businesses co-located or related through ownership should establish clearly divergent brand identities with unique names, logos, and promotional materials for individual recognition. Proving independence is important under Google’s policies.
Final Words:
Having multiple businesses at one location on Google is possible if each operation is truly independent and follows the guidelines. By proving uniqueness, companies can avoid penalties while search engines show the right listings. With clear separation and distinct profiles, both customers and businesses benefit from accurate local information.
