## **🔒 Why the address is locked**

Search Atlas may show an address field as locked with a message telling you to update it through the main Google Business Profile (GBP). This usually means Google controls the field for that listing. It is not a Search Atlas project or location lock, so unlocking settings in Search Atlas will not resolve it.

Google may restrict address edits for service-area businesses, verified listings, recently changed listings, or profiles that require additional review. Some businesses also hide their street address and display only a service area.

## **✅ Update the address in Google**

1. Sign in to the Google account that manages the business profile.
2. Open the business’s main GBP profile in Google Search or Google Maps.
3. Select **Edit profile**, then open the **Location** or **Address** section.
4. Enter the correct business address and save the changes.
5. Complete any verification or review steps Google requests.

Google may review the change before publishing it. The address can remain unchanged or temporarily disappear while the review is in progress.

## **🏢 Check service-area settings**

If the business visits customers instead of serving them at a public location, Google may require it to be set up as a service-area business. In that case, remove the public street address when appropriate and add the areas served instead. Do not display a residential or private address unless customers can visit that location during business hours.

## **🔄 Sync the update with Search Atlas**

1. Wait for Google to approve and publish the change.
2. Open **Local** from the left sidebar, then go to **Local → Overview**.
3. Review the business location and refresh or sync the profile if that option is available.
4. Confirm that the updated address appears in the connected GBP data.

If Google has not approved the change, Search Atlas cannot override the restriction or publish the address on Google’s behalf.

## **⚠️ When to use Search Atlas lock guidance**

Use Search Atlas lock troubleshooting only when the message refers to a project, location, permissions, or an internal Search Atlas setting. If the message specifically says to add or edit the address through the main GBP profile, follow Google’s process instead.

## **💬 Need help?**

If you need further assistance, open the chat widget in the bottom-right corner of the platform and type **human teammate** to be connected with a member of our team.