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When onboarding a new SEO client, you expect a bit of cleanup—maybe outdated plugins, thin content, or a few technical SEO issues. But sometimes, you uncover something far more serious.
Recently, we welcomed a new client referred to us by one of our long-time partners at MalachiSoft.com. The client had been struggling with their previous SEO provider, who not only withheld access to their website but left them with a declining trend in Google traffic. They didn’t know why—and they came to us for answers.
The Mystery: Why Was the Traffic Dropping?
When the website was turned over to us, the client immediately asked why their Google traffic kept falling. To investigate, we performed a manual check using the site:URL command in Google.
Shockingly, none of their pages appeared. Zero indexed pages.
But when we checked Google Search Console, all pages showed as “Indexed.” That contradiction was our first red flag.
The Discovery: A Removal Request Was Submitted
After digging deeper, we discovered the root cause:
The previous SEO provider had submitted a removal request in Google Search Console before the site was turned over.
This meant Google had been actively deindexing the entire website—explaining the disappearing pages and the sharp decline in traffic.
It took a few days of monitoring and verification to confirm this, but once we did, we immediately took action.
Our Fix: Clean Access + Reverse the Damage
We performed a full cleanup to secure the client’s properties:
- Removed all old users from the website
- Deleted the former provider’s access in Google Search Console
- Removed their access in Google Analytics
- Canceled the removal request in Search Console
Within a short period, Google began re-indexing the website. The pages are now fully indexed again, and we can finally move forward with our optimization roadmap.
Key Lesson for Agencies: Always Check the Removals Tool
If you’re onboarding a new SEO client—never skip checking the Removals section in Google Search Console.
It’s easy to overlook, but as this case proves, a malicious or careless provider can cause massive damage with just one request.
Moving Forward With Real SEO Work
Now that the site is indexed again, we can focus on real optimization—improving rankings, rebuilding trust with Google, and helping the client recover the traffic they lost.
This experience is a reminder of why proper onboarding audits matter and why transparency is one of the most important traits of a good SEO provider.
Coach Leandro is an award-winning SEO specialist in the Philippines with over 15 years of professional experience as an SEO consultant. He has successfully managed clients from the US, Australia, UK, and Canada, delivering data-driven strategies that generate measurable results in search engine visibility and business growth.
In 2024, he was recognized as the “Outstanding Digital Freelancer of the Year” by the City Government of Iligan for his significant contributions to the freelancing and digital marketing industry.
He is the Founder and Owner of SOVA.ph, PinoySEO.ph, and MalachiSoft.com, where he continues to lead projects, mentor aspiring professionals, and provide SEO training programs tailored to the global market.
As a trusted SEO consultant and business owner in the Philippines, Coach Leandro is dedicated to helping businesses and individuals achieve long-term online success.
Beyond his professional achievements, Coach Leandro is also a passionate drone pilot, enjoying aerial photography and creative storytelling through drone videography.