How to Remove a Director from Companies House

Directors play a central role in running a limited company, but situations often arise where someone steps down, is replaced, or needs to be removed entirely. Whether the director is resigning voluntarily or the company has made a decision to remove them, it is essential that the correct steps are followed and that Companies House is updated properly.

Removing a director is not just an administrative task—it often involves legal and procedural steps that must be handled carefully to avoid complications. From ensuring the correct resolution is passed to updating your statutory registers and filing the TM01 form with Companies House, our limited company accountants can manage the entire process for you. We support businesses with director changes, shareholder disputes, board restructuring and Companies House compliance, helping you meet your legal obligations without disruption to day-to-day operations.

In this article, we explain how to remove a director from Companies House, what forms need to be filed, and what legal and procedural points you need to be aware of.

Can a Director Be Removed?

Yes. A company director can be removed in one of three ways:

1. They resign voluntarily

2. They are removed by shareholders or the board in line with the company’s articles of association

3. They are disqualified through legal proceedings

Regardless of the reason, the company must notify Companies House as soon as the removal becomes effective.

Step 1: Check Your Company’s Articles and Shareholder Agreement

Before removing a director, check your company’s articles of association and any shareholders' agreement. These documents outline the rules for appointing and removing directors and may include specific procedures or voting requirements.

Common requirements include:

• A resolution passed by a majority of shareholders

• Advance notice to the director in question

• A formal board meeting

Always follow these rules to avoid legal challenges or claims of unfair dismissal.

Read more about how to change shares on companies house.

Step 2: Complete the Internal Process

Once the correct procedure has been followed, record the removal in your company’s minutes and update your register of directors.

If the director resigns, they may provide a letter of resignation. If they are being removed, keep a record of the resolution or meeting minutes as evidence of the decision.

You should also collect any company property (such as laptops, security passes, or documents) and remove the individual’s access to business accounts or software.

Step 3: Notify Companies House

To update the public record, you must file form TM01 with Companies House. This form tells Companies House that the director has officially ceased to act.

You will need:

• The company number

• The full name of the director

• The date they stopped being a director

You can file form TM01:

• Online via the Companies House WebFiling service

• By post using the paper form (downloadable from the gov.uk website)

There is no fee to file this form, and the update will appear on the public register once processed.

What If the Company Fails to Update Companies House?

If you do not file the TM01 form, Companies House will continue to list the individual as a director. This can cause confusion, legal issues, and potential difficulties for the director if they no longer wish to be associated with the business.

It is the legal responsibility of the company to ensure that director information is accurate and up to date.

Can a Director Be Removed Without Their Consent?

Yes, but only if the proper legal procedure is followed. Under section 168 of the Companies Act 2006, shareholders have the right to remove a director by ordinary resolution, even if the director does not agree.

In this case:

• You must give special notice of at least 28 days before the meeting

• The director has the right to make representations and attend the meeting

• The vote must be recorded in the minutes

• Form TM01 must still be filed with Companies House

Legal advice is often recommended if the situation is contentious.

Final Thoughts

Removing a director from Companies House is a straightforward process, but it must be done correctly. Following the proper steps, documenting the decision, and filing form TM01 on time ensures that your company stays compliant and that the public record remains accurate.

Whether the change is amicable or complex, good record-keeping and professional advice can help you avoid unnecessary problems and keep your company running smoothly. For smaller companies, especially those with one or two directors, the removal of a company officer can feel overwhelming. It is not always clear what steps to take or what needs to be filed, which is why our small company accountant service is designed to simplify the process. We will guide you through every requirement, ensure all changes are reflected correctly at Companies House, and help maintain a clean and accurate public record. Whether the change is planned or urgent, we will make sure your company stays compliant and fully supported.

Unsure what to file, when to file it or how to stay compliant? Our Companies House Help hub walks you through it all.

You might also be interested in how to change shareholders on Companies House.