Starting your contracting journey is exciting, and one of the very first decisions you’ll face is naming your limited company. It might seem simple, but choosing the right name is more important than many contractors realise. Your company name isn’t just a label; it’s part of your professional identity, a first impression for clients, and something that can impact your legal standing.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything contractors need to know about naming a limited company, from checking if a business name is trade marked to registering it properly with Companies House.
- Why Naming Your Limited Company Matters
- How to Find if a Business Name is Trade Marked
- Rules for Naming a Limited Company in the UK
- How to Register a Limited Company Name
- Can You Buy a Limited Company Name?
- Common Mistakes Contractors Make When Naming Their Company
Why Naming Your Limited Company Matters
For contractors, your company name often appears on contracts, invoices, and professional documents. A good name should:
- Build trust with clients.
- Reflect your services without being too narrow.
- Avoid confusion with competitors.
- Keep you legally compliant.
Unlike trading as a sole trader, where you can use your own name without much thought, naming a limited company comes with rules and responsibilities.
How to Find if a Business Name is Trade Marked
Before settling on a name, you need to make sure it isn’t already trade marked by someone else. Using a trade marked name can lead to legal disputes and force you to rebrand.
Steps to Check Trade Marks:
- Visit the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) website.
- Search their trade mark database.
- Look for exact matches and similar names in your sector.
If your chosen name is too close to an existing trade mark, it’s best to rethink. Even small differences (like changing “Solutions” to “Solutionz”) might not protect you.
Rules for Naming a Limited Company in the UK
Companies House sets out clear rules for limited company names. Some key points include:
- Your name must be unique, it can’t be the same as another registered company.
- Certain sensitive words (like “Royal” or “Accredited”) require special permission.
- Offensive or misleading names are not allowed.
- The name must end with “Limited” or “Ltd” (unless exempt).
Pro tip: Aim for something simple and professional.
How to Register a Limited Company Name
Once you’ve chosen a name, the next step is to register your limited company name with Companies House.
Process:
- Use the Companies House name availability checker.
- Register online via the Companies House website.
- Submit your application with your Articles of Association and company details.
At this point, your company name becomes official, and no one else can use it.
Can You Buy a Limited Company Name?
Yes, it’s possible to buy a limited company name if someone has already registered it but isn’t actively trading. This usually involves:
- Negotiating with the current owner.
- Legally transferring the company to you.
- Changing the business details (director, registered office, etc.).
This can be a quicker route if you’re set on a particular name, but it’s often more expensive than starting fresh.
Common Mistakes Contractors Make When Naming Their Company
- Being too vague – Names like “UK Services Ltd” don’t stand out and can be confusing.
- Overly complicated names – Hard-to-spell words make it tricky for clients to find you.
- Ignoring trademarks -This can lead to costly disputes.
- Choosing something too narrow – If your services expand later, your name might no longer fit.
Take your time at this stage. Rebranding later can be expensive and disruptive.
Tips for Choosing the Right Limited Company Name
Picking a company name isn’t just about getting through Companies House checks, it’s about building a professional identity that works for you long term. Here are a few pointers contractors should keep in mind:
- Think about your audience – If you mainly work with corporate clients, keep it formal and professional. A creative or quirky name might be better suited for design or media contractors.
- Keep it simple – Easy-to-spell names make it easier for clients to find you online and remember you later.
- Future-proof your name – Avoid tying yourself down to one niche if you might expand. For example, instead of “Smith Web Design Ltd”, go for “Smith Digital Ltd”, which covers a broader range of services.
- Check the domain name – Having a matching website domain is vital for branding. Make sure it’s available before you commit.
- Avoid trends – What sounds clever now might feel dated in a few years. Classic, professional names tend to stand the test of time.
Spending a little extra time on this decision now can save a lot of hassle in the future, especially if you later decide to trademark your brand or build a stronger online presence.
Key Takeaways for Naming a Limited Company
- Always check if a business name is trade marked before registering.
- Follow Companies House rules to avoid rejection.
- Contractors can keep things simple, often your name + industry works best.
- You can buy a limited company name, but registration is usually easier and cheaper.
- A clear, professional name helps build credibility with clients.
FAQs
How do I know if my company name is available?
Use the Companies House availability checker. This will show if your chosen name is already taken or too similar to an existing company.
Can two companies have the same name?
No. Companies House won’t allow duplicate names. Even names that sound very similar may be rejected.
Do I need to register my company name as a trade mark?
Not always, but it can be wise if you’re building a brand. Registering a trade mark gives extra protection and stops others from using a similar name in your industry.
Set Up Your Limited Company with Nexus Accounting
Choosing and registering your limited company name is just the first step. At Nexus Accounting, we specialise in helping contractors navigate everything from setting up a company to managing accounts, taxes, and compliance.
If you’re unsure where to start or want expert support in getting your company off the ground, get in touch with Nexus Accounting today. We’ll guide you through the process, so you can focus on building your contracting career with confidence.
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