What Should I Do If Two Businesses Are Using the Same Address?

Short Answer: You should change the address on one of the websites. This adjustment helps avoid complications, such as issues when opening accounts on platforms like Yelp, which can flag a business as already listed at the same address.

Full Explanation

When two businesses share the same address on their websites, it creates confusion and technical problems, particularly regarding local business listings and account verifications. Platforms such as Yelp often detect duplicate addresses during their review process and may flag one of the listings as a possible duplicate. This can interfere with both businesses’ online presence and complicate their ability to open or maintain accounts on such platforms. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that each business has a unique address listed online.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Identify if two businesses are currently using the same address on their websites.
Decide which business will update their address information to avoid overlap.
Change the address listed on the website of one of the businesses to a unique and accurate location.
Verify that the updated address is reflected accurately across all online platforms and business listings.
Monitor platforms like Yelp to ensure there are no flags or issues related to duplicate address listings.

Real Examples

For instance, if Business A and Business B both display 123 Main Street as their address online, a platform like Yelp may flag one listing as a duplicate. To avoid this, Business B should update their website to reflect a different, accurate address, ensuring that both listings are distinct and compliant with platform requirements.

Common Mistakes

Ignoring duplicate business addresses and assuming it won’t affect online listings.
Failing to update platforms other than the website, which causes inconsistencies.
Changing to an incorrect or non-existent address, which can cause further issues.

FAQs

Q: Why does having the same address cause issues on platforms like Yelp?

A: Yelp and similar platforms flag duplicate addresses to prevent confusion and protect the integrity of business listings. Having two businesses at the same address can be seen as a duplicate and might hinder account approvals.

Q: Can two businesses legally share the same address?

A: While it might be legal, from an SEO and online listing perspective, it is recommended to have distinct addresses to avoid listing conflicts.

Key Takeaways

Always ensure each business has a unique address listed online.
Update the website and all associated online platforms when changing an address.
Be proactive in preventing listing conflicts to maintain seamless account operations on platforms like Yelp.