When a company has been struck off the register of companies, that is in most cases the end of the company. There are however ways that a company can be restored to the register.

Why would a company need to be restored to the register of companies?

There are a number of reasons why a company might need to be restored to the register. If a company is struck off the register of companies, you will lose access to the company’s accounts and any assets held by the company will pass to the Crown. So common reasons for restoring a company include:

  • The company owned an important asset when it was struck off.
  • The company was struck off for failing to keep up with its annual filings, but the business continues to trade.
  • Somebody has a claim against the company and needs the company restored to file that claim.
  1. Understand the type of restoration

There are two main ways to restore a company in the UK:

  • Administrative restoration – This is available in certain situations where the Registrar at Companies House struck off the company. An application must be made within 6 years of the dissolution of the company. No court application is required.
  • Court restoration – This is more widely available than an administrative restoration. Except in some limited circumstances an application must be made to the court within 6 years of dissolution.
  1. Check eligibility

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for restoration.  For administrative restoration, the company must have been trading when it was struck off and must settle any outstanding filings or fees/penalties. If the restoration relates to an asset owned by the dissolved company which has passed to the Crown, the written consent of the Crown’s representative may also be required.

  1. Prepare the necessary documents

Restoration requires paperwork such as:

  • A completed RT01 form for administrative restoration.
  • Court application forms if going through a court restoration.
  • Supporting evidence, such as old business records and bank statements.
  1. Settle any outstanding debts and filings

Before a company can be restored, all unpaid penalties, late filings and annual returns must be brought up to date.  Companies House may require accounts and confirmation statements before approving restoration.

  1. Understand the costs.

Restoration isn’t free. Costs may include:

  • Companies House fees.
  • Legal and court fees (if applicable).
  • Any outstanding fines or penalties.
  • Costs of the Crown’s representative (where the restoration relates to an asset owned by the dissolved company).
  1. Effect of restoration.

For both processes, the company is deemed to continue as though it had never been struck off. It is however possible that the company may have lost certain assets if disposed of by the Crown.

  1. Consider seeking legal advice.

If your case is complex, especially in court restorations, seeking professional advice from a solicitor or accountant can save time and ensure compliance.

Restoring a company is possible in certain circumstances but requires proper documentation, settling of outstanding debts, and understanding the right process.  Whether through administrative or court restoration, ensuring compliance with Companies House regulations will make the process smoother.