Big Changes Ahead: What Companies House Reforms Mean for You from April 2027

Posted on 2nd July 2025

At Bidwell Accountancy, we’re always keeping an eye on changes that affect our clients—especially those that impact compliance, transparency, and your day-to-day responsibilities as a business owner. One of the biggest regulatory shifts on the horizon comes into effect from April 2027, with Companies House implementing a major overhaul of how company information is submitted, verified, and made public.

Whether you're a current client or a growing business considering support, here’s what you need to know and how Bidwell Accountancy is here to help you navigate it smoothly.

🔍 What’s Changing at Companies House?

From April 2027, Companies House will take on a more active role in verifying company information and increasing transparency. These changes are part of the government’s broader efforts to combat economic crime and improve the accuracy of the UK company register.

Here are some of the key reforms coming into effect:

✅ Identity Verification for Directors and PSCs

All company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) will be required to verify their identity before being appointed.

This applies to new appointments and retrospectively to existing directors and PSCs.

🗂️ More Detailed Filings

You will need to provide more detailed company information, including standardised accounts filing and greater disclosure on ownership structures.

Small and micro-entities will no longer be able to file abridged accounts—full balance sheets must be submitted.

👁️ Enhanced Powers for Companies House

Companies House will have increased powers to query, reject, and even remove information that appears inaccurate or misleading.

Suspicious activity will be more closely monitored and flagged to enforcement agencies.

🕵️ Greater Transparency for the Public

More information will be publicly available on the Companies House register, making it easier for banks, investors, and potential clients to assess your company’s credibility.

🧾 What This Means for Business Owners

These changes will add a layer of compliance, particularly for directors and shareholders. But for many businesses, it also presents an opportunity to demonstrate professionalism and integrity in an increasingly transparent business environment.

You’ll need to:

Ensure all directors and PSCs can verify their ID.

Keep your company records up to date at all times.

Be prepared to file more detailed accounts—especially if you’ve previously used abridged formats.

🧠 How Bidwell Accountancy Can Help

The good news? You don’t have to handle this alone. Our team is here to:

Guide you through the new identity verification process.

Prepare and file the appropriate accounts and company returns in line with the latest requirements.

Keep your business fully compliant, giving you peace of mind that everything is being handled correctly.

We’ll also keep you updated with any new guidance and timelines as they are confirmed, so you’ll always be one step ahead.

💬 Final Thoughts

While the April 2027 Companies House reforms may feel like just another regulatory hurdle, they’re designed to improve the trust and credibility of doing business in the UK. For small businesses, it’s more important than ever to have accurate reporting, clean governance, and expert guidance—and that’s where Bidwell Accountancy comes in.

Whether you’re an established company or just starting out, now is the perfect time to ensure your records, directors, and reporting processes are in order.