A single negative review on Google My Business (GMB) can hurt your brand reputation, reduce consumer trust, and even impact your local SEO rankings, whether it’s a fake review, a competitor’s sabotage, or a misunderstanding with a customer, business owners often ask how to remove bad reviews from Google My Business.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to remove bad Google reviews, including when possible, how to dispute unfair reviews, and what to do if Google doesn’t act. We’ll also explore how professional services like Google Review Removal Services can simplify this process and protect your online reputation.

Why Google Reviews Matter

Before we dive into how to get Google reviews removed, it’s essential to understand the power of reviews in shaping your brand:

93% of consumers say online reviews influence their purchasing decisions.
A business with multiple negative reviews can lose up to 70% of potential customers.
Google reviews affect your local SEO, meaning bad reviews could push you lower in local search results.

So, taking quick action is crucial if you’re dealing with one or more damaging reviews.

Can You Remove Bad Google Reviews?

Yes — but only under certain conditions.

Google has a strict content policy. If a review violates these guidelines, you can request its removal. Here are the most common types of reviews that can be taken down:

Spam and fake content
Off-topic reviews
Offensive or inappropriate language
Impersonation or misrepresentation
Conflict of interest (e.g., posted by a competitor)

However, Google does not remove reviews simply because they are negative or critical. It will likely remain if the Review reflects a legitimate experience—even harsh—it will remain.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Bad Reviews from Google My Business

If you’ve spotted a review that seems fake, inappropriate, or misleading, follow these steps:

Go to Google Business Profile Manager and sign in with your business account.

2. Find the Problematic Review

Select the location (if you manage multiple) and scroll to the “Reviews” section.

3. Click the Three Dots (⋮) Next to the Review

Select “Report review” and choose the reason that best matches the issue.

4. Wait for Google’s Response

Google typically responds within 3-7 business days. You’ll receive an email notification about whether the Review was removed.

If the Review is not removed, and you strongly believe it violates policies, you can escalate the case to Google Business Support.

When You Need Help: Use a Professional Review Removal Service

Manually disputing reviews takes time, effort, and patience. If you’re unsure how to proceed or have been unsuccessful, a specialized service can help you remove Google reviews more efficiently.

At VSF Marketing, our Google Review Removal Services include:

Manual audit of flagged reviews
Policy-based dispute filing
Escalation to Google support
Reputation management guidance
Ongoing monitoring of your GMB profile

By partnering with experts, you increase your chances of having inappropriate reviews taken down—without the stress.

What If the Review Is Real But Unfair?

The bad review doesn’t violate Google’s guidelines, but it still harms your reputation. In such cases, you can:

1. Respond Professionally

But ensure that you react to negative reviews in an encouraging and most helpful way. The ability to respond to the customer in a meaningful way would make them understand that you appreciate customer service.

Example Response:

“We’re sorry to hear about your experience. We take your feedback seriously and would love the opportunity to make things right. Please contact us at [your email or phone number].”

2. Request an Edit from the Reviewer

After you have dealt with their concerns, please request the Reviewer to update his/her rating. A good number of customers can be corrected should they feel listened to and respected.

3. Encourage Positive Reviews

Offset the negative ones by asking happy customers to leave positive feedback. Ensure you’re not offering incentives — that’s against Google’s policy.

How to Get Google Reviews Removed: FAQs

Q1: How long does it take to remove a Google review?

Google usually processes your request in 3–7 business days, but timelines can vary depending on the issue and support volume.

Q2: Can I sue someone for a fake Google review?

Where the Review is a defamation and has hurt your business, yes. Yet cost and time usually means that a legal recourse is a last resort.

Q3: Can I delete a review someone else left?

No. You cannot delete reviews left by others, but you can flag them for removal or seek assistance from services that help get Google reviews removed.

Final Thoughts

Bad reviews can feel discouraging, but they don’t have to define your business. Knowing how to remove bad reviews from Google My Business is the first step toward protecting your online image. Whether it’s through self-service or by hiring professionals to help you get Google reviews removed, the key is to act fast, stay professional, and stay proactive.

For businesses who want a hassle-free solution to online reputation management, VSF Marketing offers dedicated support to remove bad Google reviews and keep your brand shining online.

What to do With a Bad Reviews On Google My Business