Concerns over private addresses being registered as 'businesses' in Billingshurst

Now Horsham MP Jeremy Quin is investigating what’s going on. He said: “I am aware that a number of constituents in Billingshurst and the surrounding area have received letters from Companies House informing them that businesses have registered at their home address. These apparently have no connection to the occupiers. This is completely unacceptable and I understand the upset and concern this is causing to those affected.”

He said anyone affected who had not yet reported it to Companies House should do so using: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/report-a-company-using-your-personal-details-without-your-permission

"I understand that Companies House has said that they will respond to constituents within 28 days. However, I will be writing to both Companies House and the Minister to ensure a swift response,” he said.

"Removing false registered addresses has apparently had to become a regular task of Companies House and should be executed without issue. However I will also be querying why it appears that inadequate proof of occupancy or connection is required at the outset to prevent constituents and others having to go through this frustrating and concerning saga – which without being addressed could have real implications for the residents.”

He asked anyone affected to email him at [email protected]

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Companies House says that homeowners or tenants in the UK could have a registered company at their address without their knowledge and/or consent. It says: “This can happen for a variety of reasons, including fraud or error.”

And a spokesperson for Companies House added: “We’ll respond to any correspondence regarding this in due course.

“We recognise how the fraudulent misuse of the register can be a source of significant stress and upset for innocent people.

“Using our new powers, we are prioritising resolving these cases and are developing our intelligence capability to increase our work with law enforcement.

“Removing personal information registered without consent – once a difficult and lengthy process – has also been made quicker and easier.

“This will make a real difference to victims and help tackle fraud.”