Google enforces specific guidelines for updating information on your Google Business Profile. When submitting updates through the dba platform, any content that doesn’t meet these requirements will trigger an error message. This article explains how to troubleshoot and resolve the
READ_ONLY_ADDRESS_COMPONENTS error to ensure your updates are accepted smoothly.Common Causes & Solutions
1. Attempting to update address components that Google has marked as read-only
This error appears when trying to modify parts of the address (such as the city, region, or postal code) that are automatically determined by Google based on the map pin and cannot be changed manually.
→ Solution 1:
Update the map pin instead of manually adjusting address components. To do this, access the Google Business Profile directly and reposition the pin to the correct location on the map.
✅ Move the pin to the desired location and allow Google to auto-update the address fields
🚫 Manually override address fields like city or postal code that are auto-generated
2. Submitting address changes through the API or platform without adjusting the pin
If you attempt to submit a new address but do not move the pin, Google may restrict the ability to change surrounding address components.
→ Solution 2:
Make the address change directly on Google by moving the pin location. After the change is reflected, sync the updated location data back to the dba platform.
3. Changing sensitive address elements (e.g., region or locality) without proper verification
Google may lock certain components (like country or state) if they are critical to the listing's trust signals. Trying to change these fields without going through verification may trigger this error.
→ Solution 3:
If you need to change a locked component (such as moving from one city or state to another), initiate the update in Google and be prepared to complete a re-verification process.
📌 Best Practice: Update Pin First
While you can submit an address update through the dba platform, it's best practice to move the pin in Google first—especially when dealing with address changes. Google is highly sensitive to these updates, and pin movement ensures the system auto-generates accurate and accepted components, reducing the risk of verification issues or rejected edits.
Still Seeing the Error?
If you’ve verified the pin location and are still receiving the READ_ONLY_ADDRESS_COMPONENTS error, try the following:
Test in Google
Log in directly to your Google Business Profile and attempt to update the address or move the pin manually. If the address updates correctly there, sync your changes back into the platform.
Contact support
If the error persists or you're unsure which component is locked, contact our support team at help@dbaplatform.com with the business name and location ID. We’ll help identify the blocked field and recommend a solution.
How Long Will the Fix Take?
If the issue is resolved by updating the pin or editing directly in Google, the fix is usually reflected within 15–30 minutes. If re-verification is required or the listing is flagged for manual review by Google, resolution may take up to several days.
How to Update Your Business's Google Information Through dba
If you're unsure how to update your GBP details through the dba platform—or just need a quick refresher—we’ve got you covered. Our step-by-step guide walks you through how to make edits to your profiles efficiently and accurately.
👉 Click here to view the guide on updating GBPs through dba
Looking for the Error Code?
If you're working with support or need to reference this issue more technically, the error code associated with this message is: READ_ONLY_ADDRESS_COMPONENTS. Sharing this code can help speed up troubleshooting and ensure we’re all speaking the same language when resolving the issue.