Corporate report

Companies House enforcement strategy

Updated 26 October 2023

1. Helping you comply with regulatory requirements

Companies House uses a variety of ways to help companies comply with regulatory requirements.

This includes:

  • sending email reminders to companies before a filing deadline
  • hosting free interactive webinars
  • free online guidance for companies
  • utilising contacts in professional bodies
  • offering support and advice to customers through our contact centre

2. Enforcing compliance with regulatory requirements

Where help and advice does not secure compliance with regulatory requirements, Companies House uses fair and proportionate enforcement.

This includes, where necessary:

  • rigorous enforcement of regulations
  • prosecution of criminal activity to maintain confidence in the corporate registry
  • providing stability for business and enterprise

Companies House will prioritise resources to focus on offences where there has been persistent, repeated and wilful non-compliance.

Where appropriate, lighter touch enforcement will be used to secure compliance with regulations.

The Scottish procurator fiscal maintains the jurisdiction of Edinburgh Sheriff Court for the prosecution of companies (or other entities) registered in Scotland.