When you’re relocating a business, there’s a lot more to think about than just packing desks and updating your sat nav. One of the most overlooked (but legally critical) tasks is making sure your change of business address is properly handled.
I’ve helped hundreds of companies—large and small—move offices across London. And you’d be surprised how many forget to update their registered office address or inform the right people at Companies House. It might seem like admin, but it can cause real problems if you don’t get it right—missed mail, fines, or delays in HMRC communication.Whether you’re moving a limited company, a partnership, or you’re a sole trader, this checklist will walk you through exactly what to do to stay compliant, keep your operations running smoothly, and avoid the most common pitfalls I see during commercial moves.Let’s make your move stress-free—from the boxes to the official paperwork.Who You Need to Notify When You Change Business Address
Changing your business address involves more than updating your email footer. You need to notify several key parties—some for legal compliance, others to avoid disruption to your operations. From my experience, businesses that take the time to get this right save themselves a lot of follow-up headaches.Here’s who you need to tell when changing your business address:1. Companies House (for limited companies)
If you’re a limited company, you’re legally required to update your registered office address with Companies House using form AD01. This must be done within 14 days of the move.- You can do this online through the WebFiling service
- You’ll need your company registration number and authentication code
- The new address must be a real, physical location where statutory mail can be received (not a PO box)
2. HMRC
You’ll need to update your address across all relevant HMRC services. This includes:- Corporation Tax
- VAT
- PAYE
- Self Assessment (if you’re a sole trader)
3. Banks, insurers, and legal contacts
Notify your business bank, credit card provider, and any insurers. Delays here can affect claims, payments, and fraud checks.Also update solicitors, accountants, and anyone who handles your legal documents, company records, or official filings.For guidance on safeguarding your business’ data, read this guide on how to protect your sensitive data when moving offices.4. Clients, suppliers, and partners
I always advise giving your regular contacts at least a month’s notice. Let them know via email, phone, or your company newsletter—and make sure they update your address in their systems.Some of our clients even send out a “We’ve moved!” postcard with a map and new contact details—it’s a nice touch that keeps relationships warm.If you’re curious about what to expect cost-wise, our Office Relocation Costs Guide offers detailed insights.Update All Communication Channels
Once you’ve updated the official records, it’s time to make sure no one gets left behind when trying to reach you. This part is all about visibility—making sure your customers, suppliers, and partners know exactly where to find you (both online and offline).Here’s where I recommend updating your business address as part of every office move:Phone and email systems
- Update your voicemail messages and phone system greetings
- Make sure call forwarding is set up if your number’s changing
- Update your email signatures, templates, and automated responses
Printed materials
- Order new business cards, letterheads, and invoices
- Replace any on-site signage, window decals, or reception plaques
Website and digital platforms
- Update your website footer and Contact Us page
- Check embedded maps and business location pins
- Replace your address on any downloadable PDFs or brochuresSocial media and business directories
- Update your address on Google Business Profile, LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.
- Don’t forget listings on industry-specific directories, trade bodies, or review platforms
- If you’re on any public register, like a professional licensing body, update that too
Utility Providers and Local Government Notifications
One of the biggest causes of post-move disruption I’ve seen? Delayed internet connections or missed bills because someone forgot to update the utility accounts. These things are easy to overlook—but they can cause a lot of unnecessary stress if not handled early.Here’s who to contact when you change your business address:Utility and service providers
- Phone and broadband: Book your installation or transfer well in advance to avoid downtime
- Electricity and gas: Let them know your move date and final meter readings
- Water services: Update your account and request final bills
Local council
- Update your details for business rates
- If you’re moving into a new borough, your rateable value might change—make sure you’re not overpaying
- Some councils require you to register your new physical location for local business directories
Royal Mail
- Set up mail redirection so you don’t miss any important post (especially if you’re still receiving statutory mail at the old address)
Internal Systems and Team Updates
Changing your business address doesn’t just affect what’s on your website or company paperwork—it impacts your internal operations, too. I’ve seen businesses run into problems because old addresses linger in systems, HR files, or even shipping labels.Here’s how to make sure your internal setup reflects your new location:Internal records and systems
- Update your CRM, accounting software, payroll system, and any HR databases
- Check your document templates (like contracts, invoices, and NDAs) for outdated address info
- Back up company records before the move—especially anything tied to your registered office address
Team-wide communications
- Let all employees know your new business address and when the change takes effect
- Update shared calendars and internal platforms (Slack, Teams, etc.)
- Confirm everyone’s emergency contact cards, ID badges, and system logins are correct
Legal documents and company directors
- If you’re changing the service address for a company director, you’ll need to file a CH01 or CH03 form with Companies House
- Ensure all official documents reflect the new registered address, especially anything held for compliance, audits, or client contracts
Final Steps: External Communication & the Move Itself
As moving day approaches, it’s easy to focus on the logistics—boxes, lorries, keys. But a few final touches can go a long way in keeping your business running smoothly during the transition.Here’s what I always recommend in the final stage of a business move:External platforms and public listings
- Double-check your business is listed correctly on public registers, industry associations, and any licensing bodies
- If your registered office address appears on platforms like Companies House or Google, ensure the changes have gone through
- Update any email marketing platforms to ensure regulatory compliance (especially if your address appears in footers)
Outgoing communication
- Add a “we’ve moved!” message to your outgoing post and email footers for at least a month
- Include a short message on invoices or proposals to remind clients of the change
- Let couriers and delivery services know where to drop off future shipments
Day-of-move coordination
- Make sure one team member is on-site to direct the movers and check that fragile or confidential items are packed securely
- For expert advice on ensuring the safety of your items during a move, explore our complete guide to removals & storage for fragile items.
- If you’re using a business storage solution for interim items, label everything clearly by department or urgency
- Consider a short team meeting or walk-through at the new premises once settled—it helps everyone feel grounded in the new space
Key Takeaways
Relocating your business is no small task—but getting your change of business address right is one of the most important parts of the process. From legal obligations with Companies House to practical steps like updating your CRM and phone system, every detail matters.Here’s a quick recap of what to remember:- 📍 File the correct forms (like AD01, CH01, CH03) with Companies House
- 🏢 Update your registered office address and legal documents
- 💼 Inform HMRC, insurers, banks, and professional contacts
- 🖥️ Refresh all internal systems and external listings
- 📦 Notify your customers and suppliers well in advance
- 🔒 Consider using secure business storage during the move for equipment, files, or furniture






