That dissolved company name looks available, but wait. Phoenix company rules ban directors from reusing dissolved names for 5 years. Break this and you face personal liability for company debts.
The 12-Month Block
Companies House blocks names identical or similar to companies dissolved within past 12 months. Automatic rejection.
Phoenix Company Rules
Former directors can't use same/similar name for 5 years without court permission. Prevents debt evasion.
Personal Liability Risk
Break phoenix rules and directors become personally liable for new company debts. Unlimited.
Court Permission Process
Apply to High Court. Prove legitimate reason. Costs £2,000-5,000 in legal fees. 3-6 month wait.
Safe Reuse Conditions
Not a former director. Company dissolved 12+ months ago. Name is genuinely different (not just "Ltd" vs "Limited").
Warning: "Phoenixing" to evade creditors is criminal offense. Directors face disqualification and prosecution.
Generic Names Can't Be Trademarked
If you want legal protection and a name competitors can't copy, make it distinctive from day one. Dissolved company names often have trademark baggage too.