Definition
Link reclamation is the process of recovering backlinks that have been lost or are no longer functioning properly. Links can be lost for various reasons: source page deletion, URL changes, CMS migration, or webmaster error. The strategy involves regularly monitoring lost backlinks via tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush, identifying the cause of the loss, then contacting the webmaster to restore the link or implementing a 301 redirect if the target URL has changed. It is one of the most ROI-efficient link building techniques since these links already existed.
Key Points
- Regularly monitor lost backlinks via SEO tools
- 301 redirects allow quick recovery of links to changed URLs
- Very high ROI since it involves recovering links that already existed
Practical Examples
Broken link after redesign
After a site redesign, several URLs changed and 50 backlinks point to 404 pages. Implementing 301 redirects to the new URLs restores the value of these links.
Accidentally removed link
A media outlet updates an article and accidentally removes the link to your site. By contacting them, you get the backlink restored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the 'Lost Backlinks' report in Ahrefs or SEMrush's backlink tracking. These tools show links that have disappeared along with the date and likely reason for the loss.
Link reclamation should be prioritized because it has better ROI: these links already existed, the relationship is established, and the recovery rate is generally above 30%.
Go Further with LemmiLink
Discover how LemmiLink can help you put these SEO concepts into practice.
Last updated: 2026-02-07