Website redesign and SEO

Website Redesign SEO Checklist: What to Check Before Launch

A redesign can improve a website’s appearance and usability. It can also disrupt search visibility if important pages disappear, URLs change without redirects or useful content is removed. SEO should therefore be part of the redesign plan from the beginning.

Record what works on the current site

Before making changes, list your existing URLs and identify pages that receive relevant search traffic or enquiries. Note each page’s main topic, title, important headings and internal links. This gives the new site a starting point and helps you avoid accidentally removing pages that serve a purpose.

If the current site has separate pages for different services, consider whether those topics still need separate pages. A cleaner menu does not always require combining distinct services into one general page.

Plan URL changes carefully

Keep useful URLs when possible. If a URL must change, redirect the old address to its closest relevant replacement. Check internal links so they point directly to the new address. Avoid sending every retired page to the homepage; a visitor expecting a specific service needs a relevant destination.

Check the content and technical basics

For each important page, write a unique title and description that accurately represent its content. Use one clear main heading, descriptive subheadings and links to related pages. Make sure the mobile layout, navigation, forms and contact buttons work.

The redesign is also an opportunity to improve website development decisions that affect usability. If search is a key source of business, involve an SEO specialist in the page structure and launch checks.

Review the new site after launch

Test redirects, submit the appropriate sitemap, check that intended pages can be indexed and monitor search performance. Investigate unexpected drops by looking at affected pages and queries rather than assuming every change is caused by the redesign.

A successful redesign should give customers a better experience while preserving the information that already helps them find you. If you are planning one, contact Layercodes to discuss the website and SEO requirements together.