Choosing the right company name is a critical step when setting up a business in the UK. But before you get too attached to your perfect company name, you’ll need to make sure it’s available and compliant with UK regulations.
How do you check if a company name is available in the UK? Luckily, there are free, straightforward ways to do this online, ensuring you avoid any legal issues down the road.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about checking the availability of a company name in the UK and the steps to register it. Let’s get started!
Why Is It Important to Check Company Name Availability?
It might seem like a simple task, but ensuring that your company name is available is essential for several reasons:
- Legal Compliance: In the UK, companies must have a unique name that doesn’t infringe on existing businesses. Names that are too similar to registered companies could cause confusion and lead to legal issues.
- Branding and Identity: Your company name represents your brand. A unique name helps to establish your company’s identity in the marketplace.
- Trademark Protection: Beyond Companies House registration, you may want to trademark your business name to protect it legally.
- Avoiding Rejections: If you try to register a company name that’s already taken or restricted, Companies House will reject your application, delaying your business registration.
By checking the availability early, you’ll avoid unnecessary headaches and ensure a smooth registration process.
How to Check if a Company Name is Available in the UK?
Checking if your desired company name is available in the UK is an essential first step in setting up your business. Here’s a simple guide to ensure your name is unique and ready for registration.
1. Use the Companies House Name Availability Checker
The Companies House is the UK’s official registrar of companies. If you plan to register your business as a limited company, this is the first place to check.
Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the Companies House name availability checker at “https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company-name-availability”.
- Enter your desired company name into the search bar.
- The tool will show whether the name is available or already in use.
Advantages:
- It’s Completely free.
- It’s the most accurate and official tool to verify whether a name can be used.
If your name is available, great! You can proceed to the next steps. If not, you may need to tweak your name by adding a unique identifier or changing the format slightly.
2. Conduct a Trademark Search
It’s not enough to just check Companies House. Even if the name is available for registration, it’s worth checking whether someone has trademarked it.
Here’s why trademark searches are crucial:
- Prevent Legal Issues: You don’t want to start using a name that someone else owns as a trademark, or you could be at risk of a lawsuit.
- Brand Protection: Trademarking your name ensures no one else can use it within your industry.
To conduct a trademark search:
- Visit the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO).
- Use their search tool to check if your name or similar names are trademarked.
This step is essential for businesses concerned with protecting their brand in the long run.
3. Consider Domain Name Availability
In the digital age, it’s important to have a matching domain for your business. Ideally, your company name should also be available as a domain name to maintain a consistent online presence.
You can check domain availability using:
- Domain search tools like IONOS, GoDaddy, or Namecheap.
- Keep an eye out for both .co.uk and .com domains if you want a broader online presence.
For example:
| Company Name | Domain Availability |
| BrightTech Solutions | brighttechsolutions.co.uk (Available) |
| Stellar Marketing | stellarmarketing.com (Taken) |
Make sure your website name is easy to remember and aligns well with your company’s branding. By following these steps, verifying through Companies House, conducting a trademark search, and checking domain availability, you can confidently secure a name that reflects your brand and avoids legal complications.
In addition to Companies House and trademark checks, there are several other online tools to help you verify your company name’s availability.
- IONOS Company Name Checker: A simple tool to check domain and company name availability.
- Company Check UK: This platform allows you to view detailed information about UK companies, including financial records, and check for existing names.
These tools provide an extra layer of verification to ensure your name isn’t already in use.
What Happens if Two Companies Have Similar Names?
One of the common concerns when choosing a company name is whether similar names can coexist. Can two companies have similar names?
The short answer is: it depends.
- Too Similar: If your chosen name is “too similar” to an existing business, especially in the same industry, Companies House will reject your application.
- Confusion: Even if Companies House approves your name, if another company believes that your name could confuse customers, they may take legal action to prevent you from using it.
To avoid this, here are some tips:
- Ensure your name isn’t just a plural or singular form of an existing name.
- Avoid adding generic terms like “Services” or “UK” to differentiate your name.
If you do run into a situation where your name is too similar to another, consider using a unique spelling or adding location-specific identifiers.
Can I Change My Company Name After Registration?
Yes, you can change your company name after registration. But there are a few steps involved, and it’s not a free process.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Decide on a New Name: Ensure the new name follows the same availability and legal checks as outlined above.
- Inform Companies House: You’ll need to file a form with Companies House to notify them of the change.
- Special Resolution: For some businesses, the shareholders may need to pass a special resolution to approve the name change.
Cost of Changing a Name:
- Changing a company name costs £8 if you file it online and £40 if you file by post.
- It usually takes about 24 hours for the name change to be processed online.
Changing a name can impact your branding and customer recognition, so be sure it’s the right move for your business before proceeding.
Tips for Choosing a Unique Company Name
When brainstorming potential company names, it’s crucial to keep the following tips in mind:
- Avoid Restricted Words: Some words require special permission to use, such as “Royal,” “British,” or “Bank.”
- Check for Trademarks: Make sure your name isn’t trademarked by another business.
- Avoid Similar Names: Don’t choose a name that’s too close to a competitor’s – this can lead to legal disputes.
- Be Creative: Choose something unique, easy to spell, and memorable.
- Consider SEO and Branding: If possible, include keywords in your name that represent your industry.
Choosing the right name from the start can save you time and money in the future.
Common Naming Restrictions Imposed by Companies House
Companies House has strict guidelines when it comes to registering a company name, ensuring that businesses operate under names that are distinct, appropriate, and compliant with legal standards.
Here are some of the most common restrictions you need to be aware of:
- Sensitive Words or Phrases: Certain words, such as “Royal,” “National,” or “British,” require special permission because they imply official status or national significance. For example, using “Royal” requires approval from the Cabinet Office, while “British” needs evidence that the business serves the entire UK.
- Too Similar Names: If your proposed company name is too similar to an existing one, it will be rejected by Companies House. The goal is to avoid confusion between businesses and ensure clear differentiation in the marketplace.
- Offensive Words: Any name containing offensive or inappropriate language will be immediately rejected without consideration.
Here’s a table outlining some restricted words and the requirements for their use:
| Restricted Word | Requirement |
| Royal | Approval from the Cabinet Office |
| British | Proof of business relevance across the UK |
| Bank | Approval from financial regulatory authorities |
If your desired company name includes any of these terms, be prepared for a longer approval process as it will require additional documentation and permissions.
What to Do If Your Company Name Is Already Taken?
If your ideal company name is already taken, don’t worry – there are a few ways to adjust it:
- Add a Suffix or Prefix: Consider adding terms like “UK,” “Global,” or your location to differentiate your name.
- Use a Unique Spelling: Play with the spelling of the name to create something new.
- Incorporate Your Niche: Add industry-specific words to make your name stand out (e.g., “Tech” or “Solutions”).
- Include Your Founder’s Name: If relevant, using your name or initials in the company name can add a personal touch and help differentiate it.
- Focus on a Key Benefit: Highlight a unique selling point of your business (e.g., “Fast,” “Expert,” or “Innovative”) to convey value and create a distinct identity.
If none of these options work, consider going back to the drawing board and coming up with something entirely fresh.
How to Register Your Company Name Once Available?
Once you’ve confirmed that your company name is available, the next step is to officially register it with Companies House. This process is straightforward, but it’s important to have everything in order.
Here’s what to do:
Prepare Your Documents:
Before you begin, ensure you have all necessary documents ready. This includes the company’s memorandum and articles of association, which outline how your company will be run and the responsibilities of directors.
Choose Your Business Structure:
Decide on the type of business entity you want to form, such as a limited company, limited liability partnership (LLP), or another structure. Each has its own legal and tax implications, so choose the one that fits your business needs.
File Online or by Post:
You can register your company online, which costs £12 and usually takes about 24 hours to process. Alternatively, you can file by post, but this costs £40 and may take 8-10 days to complete.
Once registered, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation confirming your company’s legal status. This document is crucial for opening business bank accounts and establishing credibility with clients and partners.
Conclusion
Choosing a company name is one of the first and most crucial steps in starting a business. Not only does it shape your brand identity, but it also ensures you are legally compliant in the UK.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly check whether your desired company name is available, avoid any trademark or legal conflicts, and smoothly register your business with Companies House.
The critical takeaway is to be thorough in your checks—covering not just Companies House but also potential trademarks and domain names.
Ensuring your name is unique and memorable will set you up for success as you embark on your business journey.
FAQs
How do I ensure my company name stands out in the UK?
To make sure your company name stands out, choose a name that is unique, memorable, and aligns with your business values. Avoid generic terms and instead focus on a name that represents your niche or industry. Also, consider the online availability of your company name as a domain name, as it can enhance your brand’s presence.
Are there any fees for checking a company name in the UK?
Using the Companies House name availability checker is completely free. However, if you wish to conduct a trademark search or register the name as a trademark with the UK Intellectual Property Office, there will be additional fees involved.
Is it possible to register a company name but not start trading immediately?
Yes, you can register a company name with Companies House and not start trading right away. Many businesses register a company name in advance to secure it, even if they don’t plan to start selling immediately. However, you will still need to meet certain obligations, such as submitting annual accounts and confirmation statements.
Can I check if my company name is trademarked in the UK?
Yes, you can check if a company name is trademarked by using the UK Intellectual Property Office’s trademark search tool. This ensures you don’t infringe on another business’s rights and can help protect your own brand in the future.
How long does it take to register a company name with Companies House?
Registering a company name with Companies House can take as little as 24 hours if done online and about 8-10 days if you file by post. Make sure all your documents are in order to avoid any delays.
What happens if someone else registers my preferred company name first?
If someone else registers your preferred company name first, unfortunately, you won’t be able to use it. You may need to come up with an alternative or modify your original idea by adding a prefix, suffix, or unique element that differentiates it from the existing company.
Can I use the same name as a dissolved company?
In some cases, you may be able to use the name of a dissolved company. However, Companies House imposes restrictions, and it’s best to check whether the name has been reserved or is available for use. Additionally, ensure the company was dissolved for non-controversial reasons.
