Sometimes a business listing on Google Maps is no longer relevant. The business may have permanently closed, moved to another location, or the listing may be a duplicate or inaccurate.
In these situations, you can submit a request to Google to correct or remove the listing when it qualifies under Google’s guidelines.
When Should a Business Listing Be Removed?
Not every unwanted listing should be removed.
Common legitimate reasons include:
The business has permanently closed
The listing is a duplicate
The business never existed at the listed location
The listing violates Google’s guidelines
The listing contains incorrect or misleading information
If the business is still operating, simply wanting the listing gone is generally not enough.
How to Remove a Closed Business From Google Maps
If a business has permanently closed, you can report the listing through Google Maps.
Open the business listing and look for the option to suggest an edit or report a problem.
Select the appropriate reason and provide accurate information.
Google may change the listing to show that the business is permanently closed rather than immediately deleting every trace of the listing.
What If the Listing Is a Duplicate?
If another Google Business Profile represents the same business, report it as a duplicate rather than claiming that the business does not exist.
Before submitting your request, compare the listings carefully.
Make sure you know which profile represents the legitimate business.
What If the Listing Is Fake?
A listing that represents a business that does not exist at the stated location may potentially violate Google’s policies.
In that situation, submit an appropriate report and provide evidence supporting your claim.
Never report a legitimate competitor simply because they rank above you.
Does Removing a Business Profile From Your Account Remove It From Google Maps?
Not necessarily.
There is a difference between removing your management access to a profile and requesting action on the public Google Maps listing.
If you want a listing removed from Maps, you need to use the appropriate reporting process.
What Information Can Help Your Request?
Depending on the situation, useful information may include:
Business website
Correct business address
Phone number
Photos
Official business information
Evidence that the business is permanently closed
Evidence that another listing is the legitimate profile
Accurate information gives Google more context when reviewing the request.
Need Help With a Google Maps Listing?
If you’re dealing with a duplicate, outdated, closed, or potentially policy-violating Google Business Profile, I can review the situation and help you determine the appropriate next step.
View my Google Business Profile Removal Service
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely erase a business from Google Maps?
Not every listing can be completely erased. Google determines what action is appropriate based on its policies and the circumstances.
Can a permanently closed business still appear on Google?
Yes. Google may continue displaying a permanently closed business with a closed status because historical information can still be useful to users.
Can I remove a competitor’s Google listing?
You should only report a competitor when you have a legitimate reason supported by Google’s guidelines. A competitor ranking higher than your business is not a valid reason for removal.
Can an old listing be removed?
Potentially, depending on why the listing exists and whether it violates Google’s guidelines.
