What Is a Section 243 Exemption?

A Section 243 exemption stops Companies House sharing a director's residential address with credit reference agencies specifically. It's a separate, additional layer of protection on top of the fact that your residential address already isn't shown on the public register by default.

Key Takeaways

• Your residential address is never public by default, but credit reference agencies can normally still access it. A Section 243 exemption blocks that specific access.
• It's intended for directors at genuine risk of violence or intimidation because of their company's activities, such as someone in witness protection.
• PSCs have an equivalent exemption under Section 790ZF, using the same underlying process.
• You apply directly through Companies House's official guidance, providing supporting evidence alongside the correct application form.
• A fee applies when filing the application, so it's worth confirming the current amount with Companies House before applying.

Why Would I Need a Section 243 Exemption if My Address Isn't Public Anyway?

Because your residential address isn't shown to the general public, but credit reference agencies are a specific exception, and can normally still access it without one of these exemptions. This distinction is what a Section 243 exemption exists to close.

It's meant for genuine safety cases, not general privacy preference. A director in witness protection is the classic example, but it applies more broadly to anyone facing a serious, credible risk of violence or intimidation directly connected to their company's work.

Who Is Eligible for a Section 243 Exemption?

You need to show a serious risk of violence or intimidation to yourself, or someone who lives with you, as a direct result of your company's activities. This isn't a box you tick as a precaution. Companies House expects supporting evidence before granting it.

Acceptable evidence typically includes:

• A police incident number, if you've been assaulted or attacked
• Documentary evidence, such as photos or recordings of a threat
• Evidence of targeting or disruption, for example from activist groups
• Evidence that your company's activities put you at a heightened risk

Do PSCs Get the Same Protection?

Yes. Persons with Significant Control have an equivalent exemption under Section 790ZF, using the same eligibility criteria and application process as the director version under Section 243.

Our guide to the director's residential address covers the wider privacy protections available to directors, including how this exemption fits alongside the standard address rules.

How Do I Apply for a Section 243 Exemption?

Apply directly through Companies House using their guidance on protecting your personal information on the Companies House register, which sets out the correct application route and what to include.

You'll need to submit the completed form together with a written statement explaining your grounds for the application, your evidence, and the applicable fee. A fee of £100 applied at the time of writing, but Companies House fees have changed several times recently, so it's worth confirming the current amount directly before applying.

Should I Tick the Section 243 Box When Forming My Company?

Only if you've actually been granted the exemption already. This box exists for directors who already hold a Section 243 exemption, not as something to select in anticipation of applying for one.

Ticking it without an existing exemption in place is a common mistake, and it can cause your formation application to be rejected. If you believe you're eligible but haven't applied yet, get the exemption sorted with Companies House first, then reflect it on your formation or update filing afterward.

FAQs

What does a Section 243 exemption actually protect me from?

It stops Companies House sharing your residential address with credit reference agencies specifically. Your address is already hidden from the general public regardless.

Who is eligible for a Section 243 exemption?

Directors facing a serious, credible risk of violence or intimidation as a direct result of their company's activities, supported by evidence such as a police report or documented threats.

Is there an equivalent exemption for shareholders or PSCs?

Yes, PSCs can apply under Section 790ZF, using the same criteria and process as the director exemption.

How do I apply for a Section 243 exemption?

Apply through Companies House's official guidance on protecting your personal information on the register, which sets out the correct form and what evidence to include.

Should I tick the Section 243 box when forming my company if I think I might need it later?

No. Only tick it if you've already been granted the exemption. Ticking it in anticipation can get your application rejected.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Companies House processes and fees can change, so it's worth checking current guidance on GOV.UK or Companies House before applying.