How do I check if an address is suitable for opening a new Google My Business (GMB)?

Short Answer: To determine if an address is appropriate for a new Google My Business listing, start by searching the address on Google. If existing businesses at that location have different suite numbers, the address is generally secure to use for your new GMB. However, if another business has the exact same suite number, you may be able to create a GMB there, but it risks suspension by Google later due to quality concerns.

Full Explanation

When considering opening a new Google My Business listing for a specific address, the critical factor is how Google views that location. Searching the address on Google will show the businesses already associated with it. If businesses at that address have unique suite numbers, it implies that Google allows multiple listings at the address because each is distinctly identified.

On the other hand, if you find a business already listed with the exact same suite number you intend to use, there is a possibility that Google might not accept a second listing at that identical address. Although you might be able to open the listing, Google’s quality team may suspend it if they determine that multiple listings for the same space are not justified.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Search the full address on Google: Enter the precise address including suite number if applicable.
Check existing GMB listings: Look at the business listings that appear for that address.
Note suite numbers: If multiple businesses have different suite numbers, that means the address can accommodate multiple distinct listings.
Assess risk if suite numbers match: If another listing has the same suite number, proceed with caution as Google may suspend your listing in the future.

Real Examples

Imagine an office building with several businesses; each business has a different suite number (e.g., Suite 101, Suite 102, Suite 103). Each of these can have their own GMB listing since their suite numbers differ, confirming they are treated as separate locations.

Now consider two businesses both trying to claim “Suite 101” with the same address. While you might initially set up a new GMB, Google’s quality policies could later flag and suspend one of the listings to avoid duplicates or inaccurate information.

Common Mistakes

Ignoring the suite number and just relying on the main address can cause Google to see listings as duplicates.
Assuming that because you can create a GMB at the same suite number, it will stay active without risk of suspension.
Failing to verify current GMBs at the address before creating a new one.

FAQs

Can I open a GMB if no other business is listed at the address?: Yes, if the address does not have existing GMBs, it’s safe to open a new listing.
What if another business is at the same address but with a different suite number?: This is generally acceptable because each suite number represents a unique location.
Will Google notify me if my GMB is suspended?: Yes, Google typically sends a notification explaining the suspension reason.

Key Takeaways

Always verify existing businesses on Google at your intended address before creating a new GMB listing.
Different suite numbers at the same address indicate multiple legitimate listings are permitted.
Using the exact same suite number as another GMB risks suspension and should be approached with caution.