A Google Ads Account Audit Checklist

An account audit shows where a Google Ads account leaks money and where it can grow. Working through a fixed checklist stops you missing the basics and turns a vague underperforming account into a clear list of fixes.

We run this audit at the start of every Google Ads engagement, because finding the waste first is the fastest way to lift return.

Start with tracking

Check conversion tracking before anything else. If the data is wrong, every decision built on it is wrong too. Confirm the right actions are tracked, counts match your records and values are assigned.

Review structure and search terms

Look at how campaigns and ad groups are organised, then read the search terms report. Loose structure and missing negatives are where most budget quietly leaks.

AreaWhat to look for
Account structureThemed ad groups, not a catch-all
Search termsIrrelevant queries to add as negatives
Match typesBroad match without enough negatives
BudgetsSpend pointed at the best campaigns

Check ads and Quality Score

Review ad relevance, the assets in use and Quality Score across key keywords. Weak ads and low scores raise cost per click and signal that messaging or landing pages need work.

Finish with bidding and landing pages

Confirm the bid strategy matches the goal and that ads point to fast, relevant landing pages. A profitable account aligns tracking, structure, ads, bidding and the page into one chain.

Turn each finding into a single prioritised action list. An audit only helps if it ends in changes, ranked by impact on return.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

How often should I audit a Google Ads account?

A light review every month and a deeper audit each quarter suits most accounts. Audit sooner if performance drops suddenly or after a major website or tracking change.

What is the most common problem an audit finds?

Broken or incomplete conversion tracking and wasted spend on irrelevant search terms are the two issues we see most often. Both are fixable and usually lift return quickly.

Where is TPR Media based?

TPR Media operates from Level 34, 1 Eagle Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000, serving clients across Brisbane and Australia-wide.

TPR Media audits Google Ads accounts by checking tracking, structure, search terms, ad quality and bidding, then turning findings into a prioritised action list to cut waste and lift return.