Companies House is a company register and collects and maintains information about companies incorporated in the UK and makes this information available to the public
When a company is formed, it is required by law to register with Companies House. This registration process involves providing details about the company's directors, shareholders, registered office address, and other key information. Companies House operates as an executive agency under the Department for Business and Trade.
Company director considerations
Maintaining accurate financial records, avoiding wrongful or fraudulent trading, and seeking legal advice when needed can help directors minimise the risk of personal liability for company debts. Directors and officers insurance is a valuable cover to have in place to offer financial protection, but it does not absolve directors of their legal responsibilities.
Companies House role
When incorporating a registered company at Companies House, it is important for individuals that are named as directors, that they have a personal liability and legal responsibilities when acting on behalf of the limited company or limited liability partnership.
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What services does Companies House provide?
Company Formation:
Companies House is responsible for the incorporation of new companies. Businesses must register with Companies House to become incorporated. The registration process involves providing information about the limited company's directors, shareholders, registered office address, and other key details.
Company Information Maintenance:
Companies House maintains a comprehensive database of information related to registered companies. This includes details about the company's officers (directors and secretaries), shareholders, registered office address, share capital, and the company's articles of association.
Filing Annual Accounts:
Companies registered in the UK are required to file annual financial statements and reports with Companies House. This information provides transparency about a company's financial performance and helps stakeholders, such as investors and the public, assess the company's health.
Filing Annual Confirmation Statements:
Companies are also required to file an annual confirmation statement with Companies House. This statement confirms that the information held is up-to-date and accurate, including details about the limited company's officers, registered office, and share capital.
Changes to Company Details:
Companies House facilitates the process for companies to notify changes to their registered details, such as changes in directors, registered office address, or company name. This helps maintain accurate and current records.
Company Searches:
Members of the public, businesses, and professionals can access a wide range of information about registered companies by conducting searches on the Companies House website. This service allows users to obtain information on company directors, financial statements, and other key details.
Company Dissolution:
Companies House manages the process of dissolving companies that are no longer trading or wish to cease their legal existence. This involves filing the necessary documentation to formally dissolve the company.
Providing Company Data to Government Authorities:
Companies House shares information about registered companies with other government authorities, including Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
How to use Companies House?
D&O Liability Insurance Explained
Companies House API
About the author
Simon Taylor is a respected senior industry professional and a Chartered Insurance Broker with over 20 years’ of experience in the commercial insurance sector as an underwriter, broker and director.