As of January 2025, directors have new rights to remove their residential addresses from historical company filings if they were previously used as the company’s registered office.
This update, introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (the Act), strengthens privacy protections by expanding existing address suppression rules under the Companies Act 2006 (the Act).
What is changing?
For the first time, directors can apply to have their home address removed from past records if it was used as the company’s registered office.
However, this can only be done once the company has updated its registered office to a new, valid address.
If the company has been dissolved, additional requirements may apply.
Directors should refer to the latest Companies House guidance before making an application.
Key points to note
Balancing privacy with corporate transparency
These reforms aim to enhance director privacy, but some have raised concerns about reduced transparency.
Companies House remains committed to corporate accountability, and regulatory bodies, including law enforcement and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), will still have full access to company records, even where details have been suppressed.
Next steps for directors
To take advantage of these changes, directors should:
Update the registered office address
If a home address is still being used as the company’s registered office, it must be changed before applying for suppression.
Submit a suppression request
Eligible applicants should complete and submit Form SR01 online or by post. No explanation for the request is required.
Inform key stakeholders
Directors, PSCs, and company members should be made aware of these new rights and the associated £30 application fee per document.
Those concerned about privacy should act promptly.
Keep statutory records up to date
Ensure that all official company records reflect any changes and remain compliant with Companies House regulations.
For guidance on address suppression applications or registered office updates, our team is available to assist. Contact us today.
