Why Updating Your e911 Address is Critical When You Move

When you move your business from one location to another, updating the e911 address might be low on your list of priorities (if it’s even on there at all). But this is important. You don’t want to make the mistake of overlooking it.

When a traditional landline telephone is set up, it’s fixed to a specific location. That’s not the case with modern digital lines, such as a VoIP system or your mobile line. These modern lines are much easier to move locations, but there’s a downside: Your e911 address doesn’t automatically update, and in an emergency, this could end up being a serious problem.

Here’s what you should know about e911 addresses and why it’s so important to update them when you move:

 Why e911 Accuracy Matters

An e911 address, short for an Enhanced911 address, is the physical location associated with a phone system. When you make an emergency call, the operator is able to trace where you are and dispatch the first responders to come help you.

But if your phone isn’t fixed at any specific location, the way a landline phone would be, then 911 operators could be looking at an outdated address.

And of course, this comes with serious risks:

The Risk of an Old Address:

• First responders dispatched to the wrong location and unable to reach you where you are in trouble
• Life-threatening situations, especially when seconds can make all the difference, such as a medical emergency or a security threat
• Your employees or your customers left in a vulnerable position, which can hinder the reputation and liability of your business

Who Needs to Update Their e911 Address?

By now, we’ve probably caught your attention. You might be wondering, “Should I be updating my e911 address?” The answer is likely yes.

If your business has always operated at the same location with the same landline phone, you’ve likely never had to change your e911 number. But this is rarely the case for modern businesses, and you should think about your e911 number if you are:

• A business moving offices. If you relocate your headquarters or central office but forget to update your communication systems, then all emergency calls will direct first responders to the address where you were previously located.
• A business with a remote setup. If your employees work from home or use portable VoIP phones, then their current location likely won’t be accuratelynreflected.
• A business that uses portable devices. If you use VoIP phones, mobile apps like Zoom Phone, RingCentral, or Google Voice, or other tools for remote work, your e911 address might not be current for any of these devices.

Best Practices for Keeping Your e911 Address Current

Now that you understand the importance of having a current e911 address, let’s talk about how you can 1) update your address when you change locations, and 2) regularly test and verify that your e911 is up to date.

Steps to Update Your Address

Updating your e911 address is pretty simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

• Log in to your communication provider’s online portal.
• Navigate to the e911 settings or emergency address section.
• Enter the new physical address for your phone or device.
• Save and confirm the changes.
• Update all phone lines, extensions, and devices.
• If you have multiple locations, you should ensure each office and team has the correct address associated with their devices.
• If you have remote workers or anyone using VoIP phones, encourage them to update their e911 addresses if they frequently change locations, such as moving between offices, homes, or coworking spaces.

Testing and Verifying Your e911 Address

Once you’ve updated your e911 address, be sure you test and verify it regularly. Every three to six months, you should:

• Confirm the update in your provider’s portal. Ensure your current address has been saved and is correctly displayed.
• Test the service. Some communication providers offer test call features that allow you to confirm the e911 system is directing calls to the correct location. 
• Recheck periodically. Especially after any system updates, relocations, or changes to your communication tools, take a few minutes to verify the accuracy of your e911 information.

Remember that you should always update your address immediately after you move or relocate. By incorporating a review into your routine IT or communication systems check, you can have confidence your information is current and your staff/customers are protected.

The Dangers of Not Updating

Nobody wants to focus on the negative, but it’s important to understand the serious risks associated with not updating your e911 address. This can lead to delays, confusion, and potential liability. For example, you could face:

• A delayed emergency response. If responders are sent to the wrong location, your employees or customers could be put at risk.
• Legal and financial liability. You might even face lawsuits, fines, or penalties if outdated e911 information contributes to a delay or harm during an emergency.
• Operational disruptions. Inaccurate emergency responses will disrupt your operation, harm your reputation, and reduce trust among employees and clients.

At Office Phones Plus, we worry about all the important aspects of your

communications systems so you don’t have to. If you want to learn more about setting

up business communications with an e911 address, give us a call at 410-834-4900.