Company Restoration

Company Restoration is the process by which dissolved (struck off) companies are restored to the Companies House register.

Since the implementation of the last stage of Companies Act 2006, you now have two available options for restoring a limited company to the Register.

Option 1:

Company Restorations by Court Order

If the sole reason for restoring a company is to release its assets, for example, money in the bank account, property or any other claim then this option is for you, or if:

The company was struck off due to a voluntary application made by the directors, this is the only option available.

Cost:

Who can apply?

A former director, shareholder, liquidator or creditor of the dissolved company.

Time limit?

You must make the application within 6 years of the date of dissolution. Read the faq for more details.

Conditions:

a)    The company will be restricted to carrying out only the activities mentioned in the Witness statement filed with the Court at the time of application.

b)    If the intention is to maintain the company on the register for general trading, this must be mentioned in the Witness statement.

Advantage: No annual returns or accounts need to be filed and no late filing penalties will be applicable, unless the company intends to stay on the Register.

Process:

Company restoration is carried out by filing an application with the High Court and a court order is obtained. We carry out all legal work; liaise with Companies House, the Treasury Solicitor and the High Court. No court attendance on your part will be necessary.

Outcome:

Company will be restored, for the purpose of carrying out the activities mentioned in the Witness Statement at the outset.

Timescale for company restoration:

Approximately 4-6 weeks.

Option 2:

Administrative Company Restorations

If the reason for restoring the company is to continue business and stay on the Register then this cheaper option is available.

We can restore a company by applying to Companies House for an "Administrative Restoration".

Cost:

Who can apply?

Any former director or shareholder of a company dissolved under section 652 of Companies Act 1985 or section 1000 of the Companies Act 2006.

Who cannot apply?

Companies that were struck off the Register due to a voluntary application made by the directors.

Time limit?

You must make the application within 6 years of the date of dissolution.

Conditions:

a)   Outstanding accounts and annual returns must be filed, even for dormant or non-trading companies.

b)   Late filing penalties (if applicable) must be paid to Companies House with the application.

Timescale for company restoration:

Currently around 4-5 weeks. *

Outcome: Company will be fully restored and allowed to stay on the Register to continue business.