Will changing domain registration details affect ranking?

[PeterAlexLeigh]

Hi all,

I've got a .co.uk site that I want to update the domain registrant account details for. The change will involve registering the domain to a limited company name rather than an individual and possibly changing the registered address.

Does anyone know whether this could affect google rankings? I've heard of stories of sites losing their PR because the registrant details have changed and I don't really want that to happen!

Thanks in advance for any help

[RyanKent]

Short answer, No.

I have heard many stories but never one where someone claimed to lose their PR due to changing the domain registration details.

Domain registration information is accessed by Google. They can use any information located there as a signal. I am not aware of any confirmation from Google of any such data being used. If Google believed your domain changed owners, they may remove your historical PR but that would be if your site's content changed at the same time. For example if you bought AcmeHealth.com and before it was a health food store and now you use the site to sell health insurance, then Google would see the registration was sold and the content changed and make an adjustment.

This video from Matt Cutts is not directly related but you may find it helpful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnfM_szmDh0Q&A Forum

[PeterAlexLeigh]

Thanks Ryan. You're pretty on the ball with answering questions

[dmac]

In the long run, changing the registration from a "person" to a "company" will give you added credibility. Especially if your trying to utilize the search engines places/local listings. They will send you a postcard to your company address. Once you validate the postcard you'll be considered a real player.

Keep in mind, that all goes out the door if you have a brandable personal name like Eddie Van Halen.