When you can use it
Only for manual actions, which are listed in the Manual actions report in Google Search Console. Ranking drops caused by Google’s algorithms or core updates can’t be appealed; there, the only route is to improve the site and wait for Google to reassess it.
How to write a good request
- Explain the problem: show that you understand what broke Google’s policies.
- Describe what you fixed: for example, which links you removed or disavowed, and which pages you rewrote or deleted, across the whole site.
- Show the evidence: link to a shared document with the lists of links, emails to site owners or pages changed.
- Explain how it won’t happen again: such as new processes, or ending work with the agency responsible.
What happens next
Google reviews the request, which can take from a few days to several weeks, and replies in Search Console. If the action is lifted, rankings may not return to their earlier level, because the links or content that broke the rules no longer count. If it is rejected, fix what remains and send a new request.
Reconsideration request example
A company’s site has a manual action for “thin content with little or no added value”. It removes 400 scraped pages, rewrites 60 key pages with original information, and adds author names. It then sends a request that says: “The problem was that a previous supplier published scraped product descriptions. We removed 400 pages (list attached), rewrote 60 and stopped using the supplier. Here is our new content policy.” The action is lifted after review.
Reconsideration request checklist
- Confirm the issue in the Manual actions report and read the details.
- Fix the problem across the entire site, not only the sample pages.
- Document the fixes in a shared document with lists and screenshots.
- Write a short, factual request: what was wrong, what you did, what you will do in future.
- Submit it from Search Console, and wait for the reply.
- If it is rejected, read the reason, fix more and try again.
Reconsideration request mistakes
- Sending it before the work is done.
- Vague text such as “we have cleaned the site”.
- Blaming others without describing a solution.
- Submitting a request for a drop with no manual action. It will not help.
Reconsideration request FAQs
How long does it take to get an answer?
From days to weeks. See manual actions and penalties.
Do I need to disavow links?
Only for link-related actions. See disavowing links and Search Console.