Recent reports of a software glitch at Companies House have raised understandable concerns across the advisory community. While the issue appears to have been limited in scope and quickly addressed, it serves as a timely reminder that even robust public systems are not immune to error.
For accountants and other professionals advising on corporate matters, the key question is not whether the issue was widespread, but whether any client records could have been affected. Even a small risk of inaccurate public data warrants a proportionate and structured response.
What was the issue
The reported glitch related to the way certain company records were displayed or updated on the Companies House register. In some cases, there were concerns that information may have been incorrectly altered or not accurately reflected following filings.
There is no indication of systemic fraud or widespread data compromise. However, the integrity of the public register is central to trust in UK corporate reporting, so even isolated discrepancies deserve attention.
Why this matters to clients
Companies House is a primary source of information for lenders, suppliers, investors, and regulators.
Incorrect data can have a number of consequences:
- Credit checks may be affected
- Directors’ details could appear inconsistent
- Filing histories may not reflect actual submissions
- Third parties may rely on inaccurate information
Even if the risk is low, the potential impact on reputation and commercial relationships means it is worth taking a cautious approach.
Practical checks advisers should recommend
A sensible response is to carry out a targeted review of client records. This does not need to be onerous, but it should be systematic.
Start with the basics:
- Confirm company name, registered office, and company number are correct
- Review the list of directors and secretaries
- Check persons with significant control (PSC) entries
- Ensure recent filings appear in the filing history
Then move to more detailed checks:
- Compare filed accounts with internal records and submissions
- Confirm that confirmation statements reflect current ownership and control
- Review any recent changes, such as director appointments or share transfers
- Check that filing dates and timestamps are consistent with submission records
Where possible, reconcile Companies House data with your own practice systems or software used for filing.
Focus on recent activity
Particular attention should be given to companies that have had recent filings or changes. These are the cases most likely to have been affected if the glitch related to processing or display issues.
Clients who have recently:
- Filed accounts or confirmation statements
- Appointed or resigned directors
- Updated PSC information
- Changed registered office details
should be prioritised for review.
What to do if discrepancies are found
If anything appears incorrect, the first step is to verify your own records. If your internal documentation is accurate, the next step is to consider corrective action.
This may include:
- Refilling corrected information
- Submitting an amended confirmation statement
- Contacting Companies House for clarification
- Retaining evidence of original submissions
It is also sensible to document the issue and your response, particularly where third parties may have relied on the incorrect data.
Communicating with clients
This is also an opportunity to demonstrate proactive advisory support. A short client communication can:
- Reassure clients that the issue appears limited
- Explain the importance of accurate public records
- Outline the checks you are undertaking
- Encourage clients to report anything unusual
Positioning this as part of your ongoing governance and compliance support helps reinforce your value beyond routine filings.
A broader reminder on corporate governance
While this incident may prove to be minor, it highlights a broader point. The accuracy of statutory records should not be taken for granted, even when systems are generally reliable.
Regular reviews of Companies House data should form part of good practice, particularly for clients with more complex structures or frequent changes.
This aligns with the wider direction of travel under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, where greater emphasis is being placed on the accuracy and verification of company information.
Final thoughts
At present, there is no indication that the Companies House glitch has caused widespread issues.
However, a light-touch review of client records is a sensible precaution.
For advisers, this is less about reacting to a specific problem and more about reinforcing good habits.
Ensuring that public records match reality is a fundamental part of maintaining trust in the corporate environment.
Taking a proactive approach now can help avoid more difficult conversations later.
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