Can I Use My Home Address for My Business?
Operating from home is common, but using residential addresses on GBP has strict guidelines. Get these wrong and face suspension.
Home Address Rules: The Basics
Key distinction is customer interaction:
- If customers visit your home location: May show address (with requirements)
- If you travel to customers' locations: Must hide address as SAB
When Home Addresses Are Allowed
You can show your home address if:
- Customers legitimately visit your home for business
- You have proper business signage visible from street
- Local zoning permits business operations
- You can provide proof during verification
Examples: home consultants, tutors, home salons, home-based retail where customers visit.
When Home Addresses Must Be Hidden
Hide your address if:
- You travel to customers' locations
- Customers never visit your home
- You work primarily remotely or online
- Administrative tasks only at home
In these cases: Register as SAB, use home address only for verification (hidden from public), define service areas.
Signage Requirements for Home Businesses
If showing home address:
- Visible from street or entrance
- Matches GBP name exactly
- Permanent (not temporary or handwritten)
- Professional and legible
Without proper signage, suspensions occur even with legitimate addresses.
Zoning and Legal Compliance
- Ensure compliance with local zoning ordinances
- Obtain necessary business licenses and home occupation permits
- Google may request proof during verification or appeals
Privacy Concerns
Showing home address means:
- Address becomes publicly searchable
- Risk of unexpected visitors
- Personal safety considerations
If privacy matters, operate as SAB or find commercial space.
FAQ
Q: Can I use home address if customers only visit occasionally? A: If visits are rare, operate as SAB with hidden address. Visible addresses are for businesses where in-person interaction is primary.
Q: Do I need business signage at home? A: Yes, if showing address publicly. Signage proves legitimate customer-facing operations.
Q: Can I use my apartment address? A: Yes, if you serve customers there and have landlord permission. Expect extra scrutiny.
Use our diagnostic tool to check if you're compliant.