What directors need to know about the Companies House address suppression update 

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 

• Application fee – Each suppression request requires a £30 fee. 

• Partial visibility – If the address was used as a registered office, part of the postcode may still be publicly visible. 

• Eligible applicants – Only directors, company officers, persons with significant control (PSCs), and company members can request suppression. 

• Submission process – Applications can be made online or by post using Form SR01. 

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.