Guide · updated 2026-10-18
Registered office address: rules and changes
Last reviewed: 2026-10-18
What a registered office is for, why it must be an appropriate address since 2024, and how to change it with form AD01.
What it is for
The registered office is the company's official address for legal and government correspondence. It appears on the public register and must be in the same UK jurisdiction the company is registered in (England and Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland).
The 2024 "appropriate address" rule
Since 4 March 2024 the address must be one where a document delivered would be expected to come to the attention of a person acting for the company, and where delivery can be acknowledged. A PO box on its own no longer qualifies. The registrar can change a non-compliant address to a default address, after which the company has 28 days to fix it before strike-off action begins.
Home or service address?
You may use your home, but it becomes public and stays on the historic record. Most directors use an accountant's address or a registered office service (typically £20–£100 a year). The directors' own service addresses are a separate field, also public; residential addresses are held privately.
Changing it
File form AD01 online; the change takes effect when registered, usually the same day. Tell HMRC separately — the two registers do not sync — and update your bank, insurers and website.
Common questions
Can I use my home address?
Yes, but it is public. Many directors use an accountant's or a registered office service address instead.
What is an appropriate address?
Since March 2024, one where documents delivered are expected to come to the attention of someone acting for the company and delivery can be recorded. PO boxes alone are not allowed.
How do I change it?
File form AD01 online; the change takes effect when official registers it.
General information for UK companies, correct at the date above. Not legal or tax advice; check gov.uk or an accountant for your situation.