Companies House

Table of Contents

Companies House: A Complete Guide

When starting or running a business in the UK, you will often come across the term Companies House. It is one of the most important government bodies for businesses, ensuring that companies are legally registered and that their details are transparent and available to the public.

What is Companies House?

Companies House is the official registrar of companies in the United Kingdom. It operates under the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). Every limited company, whether private or public, must be registered with Companies House to legally exist.

The role of Companies House is not just registration. It also maintains a public record of company information, making it easier for businesses, investors, and the public to access reliable details about a company.

Why is Companies House Important?

Legal Recognition – Registering with Companies House gives a business its legal identity.
Transparency – Details such as company directors, registered address, and accounts are available for public inspection.
Business Trust – Being listed shows professionalism and increases credibility with banks, suppliers, and customers.
Compliance Monitoring – Companies House ensures that businesses file annual accounts and confirmation statements.

What Companies Need to Do with Companies House

Once a business is registered, there are ongoing obligations. Some of the main requirements include:

Annual Accounts: Every company must submit yearly financial statements.
Confirmation Statement: A yearly update that confirms the basic details of the company.
Changes in Details: Any change in directors, addresses, or company structure must be reported to Companies House.
Company Name Rules: Names must follow legal guidelines and cannot be misleading or offensive.

How to Register a Company with Companies House

Choose a Business Structure – Most people register as a private limited company (Ltd).
Pick a Company Name – It must be unique and not already taken.
Provide Key Details – Including directors, shareholders, and the registered office address.
Pay the Registration Fee – Online registration is cheaper and faster than paper filing.
Receive a Certificate of Incorporation – This proves your company legally exists.

Accessing Information from Companies House

Anyone can search the Companies House online database. This allows you to see:

Company registration date
Director information
Financial records
Filing history

This transparency helps businesses and individuals check if a company is genuine and trustworthy.

Conclusion

Companies House is the backbone of the UK’s corporate system. It ensures that businesses are properly registered, information is accessible, and compliance is maintained. Whether you are setting up a new company or researching another business, Companies House is the place to start.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Companies House

1. Do all businesses need to register with Companies House?
No. Only limited companies (Ltd) and certain other types of businesses need to register. Sole traders and most partnerships do not register with Companies House.

2. How much does it cost to register a company with Companies House?
The cost depends on the method of registration. Online registration usually costs around £12, while paper applications cost about £40.

3. Can I change my company name after registration?
Yes. You can change your company name, but you must notify Companies House and follow their guidelines. A small fee is usually required.

4. What happens if I don’t file accounts or confirmation statements?
Failure to file on time can result in fines and, in serious cases, the company being struck off the register.

5. Can the public access company details for free?
Yes. The Companies House online service allows anyone to search and view basic company details at no cost.

6. What documents do I need to register a company?
You will need: