As soon as your company becomes insolvent or maybe in the future you must be aware that your responsibilities change as a director.

You’re no longer working on behalf of your shareholder and your duties now lie with the creditors of your company.

It’s critical that you don’t make the creditor’s positions any worse as this could cause you problems personally down the line.

When a company goes into liquidation an insolvency practitioner is duty-bound to review the conduct of the director and they will scrutinize very carefully how the company was run, particularly the final point before their advice was sought.

Here are some tips to help you reduce the chances of having problems personally if you have to liquidate:

  • Most people don’t realize that if you are found to have breached your duties as a director you could be landed with personal liability for some or all of the company’s debts.
  • The way people have spent Bounce Back Loans is going to be VERY CLOSELY watched.
  • Maintain accurate books and records
  • Keep all emails and notes of conversations
  • Document your decision-making process and the reasons why you are continuing to trade
  • Have up to date management accounts so you can understand the companies financial position in real-time
  • Keep your creditors informed of your position, if you don’t they’re going to increase the level of enforcement such as bailiffs and CCJ’s and soon winding-up petitions , this will add more pressure to you and can be avoided as long as you keep people in the loop
  • Do not pay anyone preferentially 
  • Take advice as soon as you can, the earlier you do this the more chance of a favourable outcome or rescue package for your business
  • If you are advised that liquidation is the best option for you and the company don’t take months to do it

I hope you don’t end up in an insolvency procedure but if it may be a possibility then follow these tips to limit the risk of you being disqualified or being held responsible for any company debts.

My aim is to help you understand your position and options as early as possible.

Any questions let me know,

All the best,
Chris,
1st Business Rescue

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I'm Chris Worden, Managing Director at 1st Business Rescue. With over 7 years of experience, I help UK directors navigate the complex world of UK corporate insolvency. We offer free and independent advice to UK directors and advise them about what options may be available to them if their limited company starts to struggle.

I am passionate about helping other directors overcome their business challenges and get back on their feet, as I was once in the same position as them. I had a business that became insolvent, and the advice out there was confusing and overwhelming. I am here to provide honest and valuable advice to UK directors. 

I am proud to say that we are one of the only 5-star corporate insolvency companies on Trustpilot with hundreds of 5-star reviews, and we publish videos weekly on our YouTube channel. Our channel is designed to educate UK directors about insolvency and debt advice. Check it out here:

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On May 7, 2021   /   Useful Information