New Companies House Verification Laws: What Every Director, Property Manager and RTM Must Know
- Offset Facilities Management
- Nov 22
- 4 min read
The UK Government has introduced new identity verification requirements for company directors as part of ongoing reforms to improve transparency and combat economic crime. These changes affect all companies registered with Companies House, including Right To Manage (RTM) companies, property management firms and resident management companies.
In simple terms, every director must now verify their identity directly with Companies House. This is a significant shift in how company information is maintained and monitored, and it places responsibility squarely on individuals to confirm who they are before they can act as a director.
Why has this law been introduced?
The new verification rules form part of a wider effort to make the UK business environment more secure and trustworthy. Historically, Companies House has largely relied on self-reported information, which has made it vulnerable to misuse, false directorships and fraudulent company registrations.
By requiring identity verification, the Government aims to:
Prevent the use of fake directors and shell companies
Improve the accuracy and credibility of the Companies House register
Strengthen enforcement against financial misconduct
Increase accountability and transparency across UK businesses
This change ensures that the individuals listed as directors are genuine, traceable and legally accountable for their role within the company.
Who must verify their identity?
The requirement applies to:
All company directors
Directors of RTM companies
Directors of resident management companies
Directors of property management companies
People with Significant Control (PSCs)
This means that even volunteer directors of RTMs and leaseholder-controlled companies are included. Whether your company is large or small, commercial or residential, this requirement applies equally.
Failure to verify can result in restrictions on a person’s ability to act as a director and may lead to compliance issues for the company itself, including potential penalties and delays to statutory filings.
What does this mean for property management companies and RTMs?
For property management companies and RTM organisations, this change is particularly relevant due to the structure of these entities. Many RTMs operate with multiple directors who are leaseholders, often with varying experience of corporate compliance.
The implications include:
Every director must complete verification individually
Verification status will be linked to confirmation statements
Unverified directors may create compliance risks for the company
Administrative workload may increase for managing agents
Boards will need to coordinate to ensure all directors complete the process
For managing agents and property professionals, this also means advising clients correctly and possibly supporting them with the process to avoid operational delays or regulatory issues.
Can this be done by yourself?
Yes. Directors can complete verification themselves using the Companies House online system if they are comfortable navigating government portals and digital identity checks. However, many accountants and company secretarial service providers now offer identity verification as part of their professional services, which can simplify the process — especially for companies with multiple directors.
This is often a practical solution for RTMs or property companies where directors prefer clear guidance and administrative support.
How to verify your identity step-by-step
Step 1: Create or access your GOV.UK One Login
You must start by creating a GOV.UK One Login account or signing into your existing one. This will be your secure access point for all Companies House services relating to identity verification.
Step 2: Access the Companies House identity verification service
Once logged in, navigate to the Companies House identity verification service. This portal will guide you through the verification process and explain the evidence required.
Step 3: Prepare your identification documents
You will typically need:
A valid photographic ID (passport or UK driving licence)
A mobile phone or email address for verification codes
In some cases, access to a smartphone or computer with a camera
Step 4: Complete the online identity check
You will be asked to:
Upload photos of your ID
Take a live selfie or short video
Answer security questions to confirm your identity
If digital verification is not possible, you may be directed to attend a Post Office or use an alternative method to complete the process.
Step 5: Receive your personal verification code
Once successfully verified, Companies House will issue you with a unique personal code. This code must be used when:
Being appointed as a director
Filing a confirmation statement
Linking your verified identity to your existing company roles
This code is personal and should not be shared. It connects your verified identity securely to your Companies House profile.
Step 6: Link your code to your company role
Your company, accountant or managing agent will then use this code when submitting filings to confirm your verified director status.
Using an accountant or professional service
Most accountants, solicitors and company administration firms now offer identity verification as a managed service. These professionals must be registered as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) to perform verification on your behalf.
This option is often beneficial if:
You have multiple directors
You manage several RTM companies
You want to ensure compliance without dealing with the technical process yourself
Full guidance and official instructions
For the most up-to-date and detailed information directly from Companies House, including how to start the verification process and what documents are required, visit:
Summary
The new Companies House identity verification laws represent a major change in how company directorships are regulated in the UK. Every director, including those of RTM and property management companies, must now verify their identity to remain compliant and legally recognised.
While the process can be completed independently online, many companies choose to use their accountant or professional service provider for reassurance and efficiency. The key takeaway is clear: early action will prevent delays, reduce compliance risk and ensure your company continues to operate smoothly.
For RTMs and property management companies, this change is not simply administrative — it is a vital step towards greater transparency, stronger governance and a more secure regulatory environment.