How to Change Your Company’s Registered Office Address

Changing your UK limited company’s registered office address requires filing Form AD01 with Companies House and ensuring the new address can legally receive official documents. The process is straightforward but carries strict notification periods and requirements for proof of occupancy.

This guide explains the practical steps, what documents you need, how long the change takes and what to consider before you move your registered office, helping early-stage founders and e-commerce sellers stay compliant without unnecessary complications.

Why the Registered Office Address Matters

Your company’s registered office address is the official address recorded at Companies House. It is where the Registrar sends legal notices, where directors can be served documents, and where members of the public can inspect certain records. For e-commerce sellers and early-stage founders, this address appears on all company stationery, websites, invoices and contracts.

Using a residential address is allowed but may expose your home to public view. Many founders prefer a business address that looks professional and protects privacy. The address must be a physical location in the UK where documents can be delivered during normal business hours. It cannot be a PO Box.

When You Might Need to Change the Address

Common reasons include moving to new premises, ending a lease on serviced offices, separating home and work addresses, or improving credibility with a more central business location. Sole traders converting to limited companies often need to update from a home address to a dedicated business address.

Before changing, confirm the new premises allow you to use the address for registered office purposes. Some landlords, coworking spaces or incubators impose restrictions. Always obtain explicit written permission and keep records of that consent.

Preparing the New Registered Office Address

First verify that the new address is acceptable to Companies House. It must be a deliverable UK location. Gather proof of occupancy such as a lease, licence agreement, utility bill in the company name, or a letter from the premises owner confirming permission. This evidence is not filed with Companies House but should be retained in your company records in case of queries.

Check any existing contracts, terms of service, banking agreements and supplier relationships that reference the current registered office. Update your website, email signatures, invoices and marketing materials after the change takes effect. Consider how the move affects GDPR documentation if you hold customer data.

Completing and Filing Form AD01

Download the latest Form AD01 from the GOV.UK website. Complete it with the company number, current registered office and the full new address. The form must be signed by a director or the company secretary. Digital filing is possible through the Companies House online service or compatible software, which is usually faster than posting paper forms.

Submit the form as soon as the company has the right to use the new address. Companies House normally processes correctly completed forms within 24 hours if filed online. The change becomes legally effective on the date shown on the confirmation issued by Companies House. Retain a copy of the confirmation notice for your records.

Notification Periods and Service of Documents

Once filed, the new address is generally effective immediately for most purposes. However, there is a 14-day period during which official documents can still be validly served at the old address. This protects third parties who may not have seen the update. After this period, all future service must use the new registered office.

Keep the old address accessible for a short time after the change in case any late notices arrive. Inform your accountant, bank, insurance provider and key suppliers promptly. Failure to keep the registered office address up to date can lead to penalties or missed deadlines for filing accounts or confirmation statements.

Proof of Occupancy and Good Practice

Although Companies House does not routinely request proof when you file AD01, you must be able to demonstrate that the company is entitled to use the address. Acceptable evidence includes a signed licence, a lease, a letter from the property owner, or a recent utility bill. Store this evidence with board minutes or in the company statutory records.

Choose an address where someone is present during normal business hours to accept post. If using a virtual office or incubator, confirm they forward mail promptly and notify you of any official-looking envelopes. Regularly review your registered office details when filing the annual confirmation statement to ensure consistency across all company records.

After the Change and Ongoing Compliance

Update all public-facing materials and internal records to reflect the new address. Amend your website privacy policy, terms of sale and contact pages. Notify HMRC if the change affects any tax correspondence address, although this is separate from the Companies House registered office.

Consider professional advice if your company is involved in regulated activities or has complex contracts. Free support is available to selected early-stage founders at places such as Loomworks in West Yorkshire, where practical guidance on company administration can be discussed with experienced operators. Always check the latest requirements directly on GOV.UK and Companies House before filing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my home address as a company registered office?

Yes, a director’s home address is permitted as a registered office provided it is a physical UK location where documents can be delivered. The address will appear publicly on the Companies House register. Many founders later switch to a business address for privacy and professionalism.

How long does it take for Companies House to process Form AD01?

Online filings are usually processed within 24 hours. Paper filings can take up to five working days. The change is effective from the date Companies House registers the form, subject to the 14-day period for service of documents at the old address.

Do I need to provide proof of occupancy when changing address?

Companies House does not require proof with the AD01 form. However, you must keep evidence such as a lease, licence or letter of permission in your company records. This may be requested later if there is any dispute about the validity of the address.

What happens if I forget to update my registered office address?

You risk missing important legal notices, fines for late filing, or documents being served at an outdated address. Companies House may also strike off the company if correspondence cannot be delivered. Always file AD01 promptly when moving.

Can I change the registered office address to a virtual office or coworking space?

Yes, provided the operator gives explicit written permission for its use as a registered office and can accept and forward official post. Confirm the arrangement in writing and retain the consent letter with your company records.