Ultimate checklist of documents to store at your registered office

Posted on January 28, 2020
Posted by Harry Birmingham

When it comes to paperwork, it can be tricky for small business owners to know exactly what corporate documents they need to keep, and for how long. Although it may be tempting to bury your head in the sand, the longer you neglect your record-keeping obligations, the higher the risk of penalties and adverse consequences for you and your business. 

What do you need to do?

You are required by law to keep a range of documents, registers and records available for inspection at your registered office (or at an alternative location if you have chosen one – see Where to keep company records for further guidance). In most cases, failure to keep proper records (or allow them to be inspected) is a criminal offence, punishable by a fine, committed by your company and any officer at fault. 

Beyond legal penalties, deficiencies in your record-keeping will also make a poor impression on anybody carrying out due diligence on your business. Potential lenders, investors or buyers may be put off if you don’t have your house in order.

How do you get your house in order?

Easy – simply go through the checklist below and follow the links for further guidance and templates. . 

Remember, even if you have ticked off every item on the checklist, you will still need to keep them updated. 

 

 

 

The content in this article is up to date at the date of publishing. The information provided is intended only for information purposes, and is not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Sparqa Legal’s Terms of Use apply.