Dissolved via compulsory strike-off action but still trading?

[J_D]

Hi there,

I've been looking to employ some tradespeople to carry out work and have come across a company that seems to be able to do this, but after some DD I noticed on companies house the filing history for said limited company says it was dissolved via compulsory strike-off action back in 2020. Looking further back, it looks like compulsory strike-off action has been threatened multiple times since 2012 but prior to 2020, was either suspended or discontinued for reasons that aren't clear.

The company still has what appears to be a legitimate and active website, with company address, phone numbers and detailed info about their service offering. I've even spoken with the (former?) director of the company listed on companies house to discuss potential work.

Is it possible that he could be continuing as a sole trader? Would there be a register somewhere with more information about him and this new set up? I don't want to hand over money with no recourse if no work or bad work is carried out. At the same time for the type of work I need doing there seem to be limited options and so I'm keen to go ahead with this company. Would it be best to just ask directly why companies house says the company has been dissolved, and how he is still trading? Or would that be too impolite?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[Scalloway]

Is it possible that he could be continuing as a sole trader

Yes. As long as the Limited doesn't appear in the business name that is possible.

Would there be a register somewhere with more information about him and this new set up

You probably would need to contact a credit checking agency

Would it be best to just ask directly why companies house says the company has been dissolved, and how he is still trading

I would suggest a polite enquiry.

 

[Lisa Thomas]

I would ask for some comfort and explanation before trading with them. The Company could be struck off at any moment.

 

[The Resolver]

Knowing who you are contracting with is the vital first rule of doing busimess. The limited company no longer exists. If he is trading under the limited company's name , with the words "limited" or "ltd" then that is an offence. The liability on any trading agreement you come to will be with him personally.

Yes you should raise the matter by asking "who am I contracting with?" and make sure you have his full ID information (name. home address, National Insurance number).

 

[J_D]

Yes. As long as the Limited doesn't appear in the business name that is possible.


You probably would need to contact a credit checking agency


I would suggest a polite enquiry.

This sounds like sound advice. Thank you! Much appreciated.

 

[J_D]

Thanks all for your responses, much appreciated.