How to Change Company Name in the UK

Choosing to change company name may feel like a significant step, but for many property investors, it marks an important stage of growth. As portfolios expand, investment strategies shift, or branding becomes more defined, the name you started with may no longer represent where your business is heading. Fortunately, the legal process for changing a company name in the UK is straightforward once you understand the required steps.

Whether you’re refining your investment brand, replacing a quickly chosen placeholder name, or aligning your identity with a new area of property focus, this guide breaks down everything you need to know — from legal requirements to practical updates.

Why Property Investors Decide to Change Company Name

For property businesses, a company’s name is more than a label — it appears on mortgage applications, tenancy agreements, conveyancing files, and lender reviews. As your investment activity becomes more structured, an outdated or generic name can feel misaligned with how you want your business to be perceived.

Some investors initially pick a temporary name just to get the SPV formed quickly, then revisit it later with fresh clarity. Others change direction entirely by moving from single lets to HMOs, or from residential into commercial, prompting a more fitting and professional identity.

It’s important to note that changing your company name does not alter the underlying company. All contracts, liabilities, and ownership remain the same; you’re simply updating how the business is officially presented.

Understanding the Legal Requirements Before You Begin

Companies House follows a clear set of rules when it comes to name changes, and these must be completed correctly for the new name to take effect.

The first requirement is shareholder approval. A special resolution is needed, meaning at least 75% of the company’s shareholders must agree to the proposed name. This can happen in a formal meeting or through a written resolution, provided the correct notice procedures are followed.

Once the special resolution is passed, the next step is submitting Form NM01 to Companies House. This form officially records your new company name on the public register. Depending on your company’s articles of association, you may also need to follow specific internal procedures, especially if your articles contain bespoke rules. There are also filing fees involved.

After Companies House updates the record, they issue a Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name, which confirms that the new name is legally active.

Choosing the Right New Company Name

Selecting a new name involves more than creativity — it requires compliance and strategic thinking. Your chosen name must meet Companies House requirements, which means it must:

• not closely resemble an existing company name
• avoid restricted or sensitive words unless permission is obtained
• not breach any trademarks
• include the correct ending such as “Limited” or “Ltd”

For property investors, professionalism and clarity are key. A name that reflects your investment focus or long-term brand vision can make lender reviews smoother and help your company appear more established.

It can also be beneficial to check name availability before committing — something many investors overlook until late in the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing a Company Name

Here’s a clear walkthrough of what the process looks like from start to finish:

1. Select Your New Name

Ensure it meets legal criteria, is available on the Companies House register, and doesn’t infringe on trademarks.

2. Get Shareholder Approval

Secure a special resolution with at least 75% approval, either in a meeting or through written consent. Make sure proper notice is given and recorded.

3. Submit Form NM01

This is the official notification to Companies House. You’ll need to provide:

• your company number
• current company name
• the new name
• a certified copy of the special resolution

4. Pay the Filing Fee

Most investors choose the online £20 option, though same-day service is available if needed.

5. Receive Your Certificate of Name Change

Once processed — usually within 24–48 hours — your new name becomes legally active.

6. Update Your Company Records

This is a crucial step. After the name change, you must update:

• bank accounts
• HMRC registrations
• VAT or PAYE records
• insurance policies
• tenancy agreements and leases
• lender records
• websites, stationery, emails, and legal documents

Keeping everything consistent ensures smooth communication with lenders, agents, and tenants.

How PropertySPV Supports Your Company Name Change

While PropertySPV does not manage SPVs on an ongoing basis, it specialises in company formation and one-off compliance services that help investors keep their SPVs aligned with lender expectations.

This includes assisting investors with:

• preparing and filing Confirmation Statements
• updating company details such as SIC codes
• VAT or PAYE registration if needed
• bank account setup support
• share transfers
• company formation for new SPVs

When changing your company name, we can support you by ensuring your filings are accurate, your documents are correctly prepared, and your company remains compliant with Companies House requirements. This helps avoid mistakes or delays that can affect future mortgage applications or legal processes.

For investors planning to expand or restructure their portfolio, PropertySPV also provides formation services for additional SPVs, making the setup process simple and lender-friendly.

---

Common Questions Property Investors Ask

Will changing my company name affect my mortgage?

No — lenders generally just require a copy of the updated certificate. However, you must notify them promptly.

Do I need to inform HMRC?

Yes, HMRC needs updated records for Corporation Tax, VAT, and PAYE (if applicable).

Does the change affect contracts?

No. The legal entity remains the same, so contracts continue unchanged.

How long does the name change take?

Online submissions are usually processed within 1–2 working days.

---

Conclusion

Changing your company name is a natural step for many investors refining their property brand or gearing up for long-term growth. With the proper process in place, it’s a smooth transition that enhances clarity, professionalism, and alignment with your investment vision.

If you’re updating your current company or setting up a new SPV for your next project, PropertySPV offers the simple, structured support that helps investors move forward with confidence — from formation to essential compliance services.

---