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Setting up or running a company in the UK involves more than just picking a business name. You must provide specific addresses to Companies House, the official company register. Failure to do so can lead to fines or even the removal of your company from the database.

In this guide, we’ll explain what Companies House requires, the different types of addresses, and how a virtual office can make things easier.

Understanding Your Registered Office Address

When you form a company, you must provide a registered office address. This is the official location where Companies House, HMRC, and other government bodies will send formal letters and notices.

Your registered office is important because:

• Tax reminders, filing deadlines, and legal notices will all arrive here.
• It’s the law. Every UK company must have one, and it must always be kept up to date.
• It’s part of your public profile. Anyone can search the Companies House register and see it, which adds transparency to your business.

Can You Use Your Home Address?

Yes, many sole traders and startups use their home address — especially in the early stages. However, this option has some clear drawbacks:

• Your home address becomes publicly visible online, which can be a privacy risk.
• It may look less professional to clients or partners.
• You could receive official documents (or even unexpected visitors) at your front door.

For these reasons, many companies choose to use an outsourced registered office address. This keeps your home private, presents a more professional image, and still meets all legal requirements.

Registered Office vs. Business Address

It’s important to distinguish between your registered office address and your business address:

• A registered office address is your legal address for receiving official documents.
• A business address is where your day-to-day operations take place — this could be a retail location, a shared workspace, or your home office.

While Companies House only requires a registered office, your business address typically appears on marketing materials, websites, and invoices. The two addresses can be the same, but they don’t have to be.

How to Change Your Registered Office Address

If you move your business or simply want to use a new address, you must inform Companies House by submitting form AD01.

Failing to notify Companies House can result in missed communications, which can quickly result in penalties or compliance issues.

What Is a Service Address for Directors?

On top of a registered office, every company director must have a service address. This is where they receive personal statutory mail.

This address:

• Can be the same as your registered office or a separate location.
• Is also listed on the public register.
• Can be an outsourced office address, which many directors use to avoid putting their home address online.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Companies House address rules is a vital part of running a compliant UK business. Getting it right protects your company, your personal privacy, and your professional image.

For many freelancers, startups, and remote teams, a virtual office is the simplest solution. It meets all the legal requirements, keeps your home address off public records, and makes your business look more established.

Simplify Your Business Address Setup with MYCO

At MYCO, we provide tailored virtual office packages that help your business stay fully compliant while projecting professionalism. Our services include a Registered Office Address, Director’s Service Address, and Business Trading Address, with complimentary mail handling and document scanning included.

Explore our packages today and see how simple it is to give your business the presence it deserves.