Registered Office: Definition and Key Points
A registered office is the official address of a company in the United Kingdom, utilized for official correspondence and record-keeping. This address is crucial for communicating with government bodies and corporate filings. Several specific responsibilities and legal requirements are associated with maintaining a registered office.
Key Points:
- The registered office must be a physical address in the UK and not just a P.O. Box.
- All statutory registers (e.g., register of directors, shareholders) must be kept at the registered office or a Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL).
- The registered office address must be disclosed on all company stationery, including emails and the company’s annual return.
- Any change in the registered office address must be notified to the Registrar of Companies within 14 days of the change.
- Such changes must be published in the London Gazette to inform the public.
Examples
Example 1: Notification of Change
A company’s registered office address has changed from 123 Business St., London, to 456 Corporate Ave., Manchester. The company must:
- Update all statutory registers.
- Notify the Registrar of Companies within 14 days by filing Form AD01.
- Update all company stationery, including business cards and email signatures.
- Publish the change in the London Gazette.
Example 2: Disclosing Address
XYZ Ltd.’s registered office is situated at 789 Enterprise Rd., Bristol. The address must be:
- Displayed on all invoices, contracts, websites, and emails.
- Available for public inspection and formal communications.
- Listed in the annual return submitted each year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of a registered office?
The registered office serves as the official address for receiving statutory communications and legal documents. It is also the location where statutory registers are kept.
Can the registered office be a residential address?
Yes, the registered office can be a residential address as long as it is a valid physical address within the UK and fit for public disclosure.
How do I notify a change of registered office address?
Changes should be notified using Form AD01, which must be filed with the Registrar of Companies within 14 days of the change. The change must also be published in the London Gazette.
Can I use a P.O. Box as a registered office address?
No, a P.O. Box alone is not acceptable. The registered office must be a physical location where documents can be delivered and accepted.
What are statutory registers?
Statutory registers are official records that a company is required to maintain by law, including records of directors, shareholders, and debentures.
Related Terms with Definitions
Registrar of Companies
The government official or department responsible for maintaining the public register of companies. Any changes to the registered office must be reported to the Registrar.
Annual Return
A filing required to be submitted annually by companies, detailing particular aspects of the company’s structure and operations, including the registered office address.
London Gazette
An official journal of record where legal notices, such as changes to the registered office, must be published.
Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL)
An alternative address where a company’s statutory records can be kept if not stored at the registered office.
Online References to Resources
- GOV.UK - Change your registered office address
- Companies House - Filing your details
- The London Gazette - Notices and Announcements
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Company Law” by Brenda Hannigan
- Overview and analysis of UK company law, including the role and requirements of a registered office.
- “Gower’s Principles of Modern Company Law” by Paul L. Davies
- Detailed guide on the principles and practicalities of company law in the UK.
- “Palmer’s Company Law”
- Comprehensive coverage of all aspects of UK company law and practice, including maintaining statutory registers and compliance requirements.
Accounting Basics: “Registered Office” Fundamentals Quiz
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