How Do I Change a Service Address?

When running a limited company in the UK, keeping Companies House informed of your correct contact addresses is not just a formality; it is the law. Two of the most important addresses associated with a company are the registered office address and the service address.

While both serve different legal purposes, they are often confused. If you are thinking about changing either of these, it’s crucial to understand what they mean, what the rules around them are, and how to make the changes properly.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about changing your company’s registered office and service addresses, including step-by-step instructions, legal implications and best practices.

What is a Registered Business Address?

A registered office address refers to the place where companies receive official mail correspondences from Companies House, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and other government agencies.

It is a mandatory requirement for all UK businesses to have a registered office address, under the UK Companies Act.

Key Rules for Registered Office Addresses

• It must be a physical address in the same country the company was incorporated in
• It cannot be a PO Box, although it can be a commercial or residential property
• It must be able to receive post, and someone should be able to check it regularly
• Although not necessary, it can be the same as the trading address

This address is publicly available on the Companies House register, meaning that anyone can look it up.

Why Change Your Registered Office Address?

Common reasons to change your registered office address includes:

• You are moving premises
• You have changed your accountant or company secretary
• You are switching to a virtual office address for privacy or convenience
• Your registered office service provider has changed

What is a Service Address?

The service address is the official address for a UK company director. It can be any address anywhere in the world that the director has permission to use. The director does not need to live at, work from or be based at the address. The only requirement is that official mail sent to the address is forwarded on to the director.

The service address is on the public register, but it can be different from their home or residential address.

 Key Rules for Service Addresses

• The service address can be anywhere in the world
• It must be one where official mail can be received and forwarded
• Residential addresses must still be given to Companies House, but they are kept off the public record, unless used as a service address

What is the Difference Between Service Address & the Registered Office?

While they do share some similarities (both are on the public register, the company need not trade from or be based at either), the registered office and the service address are different.

• The registered office is the official address for a company. The service address is the official address for a director
• The registered office must be based in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales. The service address can be anywhere

How to Change a Registered Office Address

Changing your registered office address is a straightforward process, but it must be done properly to stay compliant.

Step 1: Choose a New Address

Make sure the new address:

• Is in the same country as your current registered office
• Can receive official correspondence
• Complies with legal requirements

Step 2: Notify Companies House

You must notify Companies House as soon as possible. There are two ways to do this:

• Option A: Online
  • Log in to your Companies House WebFiling account
  • Use the form AD01 to change the registered office
  • The change is usually updated within 24 hours

• Option B: By Post
  • Download and complete form AD01 from the Companies House Website
  • Send it to Companies House at the address listed on the form
  • Postal changes can take up to 5 days to process

Step 3: Update Your Company Stationery & Branding

You must display your registered office address on:

• Company letterheads and invoices
• Your website
• Email footers (If applicable)
• At your company premises (if you operate from there)

How to Change a Director’s Service Address

You can change a service address at any point after company formation using one of the following Companies House forms:

• Form CH01 for natural directors
• Form CH02 for corporate directors
• Form CH03 for company secretaries
• Form PSC04 for person with significant control
• Form LL CH01 for LLP members

You can fill an online form and update the service address directly in the form. You can also download the form and send it to Companies House by filling in the new service address section.

What Happens After You Make the Change?

• Once processed, the new address becomes immediately active
• It appears on the public register
• HMRC and other authorities will send future correspondence to the new address
• You won’t receive an official confirmation letter, but you can view the update on the Companies House website

Conclusion

Keeping your company’s registered office and service addresses up to date is not just an administrative task, it is a legal requirement. Whether you are moving premises, changing directors, or simply aiming for better privacy, it is important that this simple process be done correctly.

By following the correct procedure and updating Companies House promptly, you will ensure that your company stays compliant and maintains a professional image.

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FAQs

1. Can I use my home address as the registered office?
Yes, but it will be publicly visible on Companies House. If you value your privacy, it’s best to use a professional address service.

2. Is it mandatory to change the service address if I move houses?
Only if your home address was being used as your service address. Otherwise, there’s no need to change your official service address.

3. How long does it take for the change to show on Companies House?
Online filings are typically updated within 24 hours. Paper filings may take 3–5 working days.

4. Do I need to inform HMRC separately?
No. Updating your address at Companies House will automatically inform HMRC (though it’s best to double-check for VAT or PAYE-related matters).

5. Can I use the same address for both the registered office and service address?
Yes. Many businesses do this, especially if they use a professional address service.

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