From 27 January 2025, Companies House has introduced new measures allowing directors to remove their residential addresses from historical filings if they were previously used as a company’s registered office.
These changes stem from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (the Act), strengthening privacy protections by extending existing address suppression rules under section 1088 of the Companies Act 2006 (the Act).
Key changes to address suppression
For the first time, directors can request the removal of their home address from past filings if it was recorded as a company’s registered office address.
However, if a director’s home address is still listed as the company’s registered office, it must be updated before applying for suppression.
The registered office must always remain valid and comply with Companies House requirements.
If a company has been dissolved, applicants should verify the latest Companies House guidance, as there may be a waiting period before address suppression can be processed.
Important details to note:
- Each request to remove an address requires a £30 application fee.
- If an address was used as a registered office, part of the postcode may still be visible on the register.
- Only directors, company officers, persons with significant control (PSCs), or company members can apply.
- Applications can be submitted online or by post using Form SR01.
Balancing privacy with corporate transparency
While these new provisions aim to improve director privacy, some industry voices have raised concerns about their potential impact on transparency.
Companies House plays a vital role in maintaining corporate accountability, and access to company data supports due diligence.
Nonetheless, key regulatory bodies such as law enforcement agencies, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), and other authorities will retain access to full company records, even where details have been suppressed.
Here are steps for you to take to make sure you can take advantage of these changes.
Review and update registered office addresses
If a director’s residential address is currently used as the registered office, it must be changed before applying for suppression.
This ensures compliance with Companies House regulations.
Submit suppression applications via Form SR01
Directors and eligible applicants can complete Form SR01 and file it online or by post.
Unlike earlier processes, no reason for suppression is required.
Communicate the changes to key stakeholders
Ensure that directors, PSCs, and company members are aware of the updated suppression rights and the £30 fee per document.
If privacy is a concern, early action is recommended.
Maintain up-to-date statutory records
Companies should ensure that their official records reflect any address changes and that these are properly recorded with Companies House.
For further assistance with address suppression applications or registered office updates, our team is available to help.
Contact us today to understand how these changes may affect your company and ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
