Phoenix Companies - Save your Business - Index to related Liquidation Law & Rules

What is a phoenix? - Definition - How to restructure Your Business

There is a common misconception that it is illegal or somehow improper to set up a phoenix company out of the ashes of a business that has gone into liquidation. By following the law that is found in The Insolvency Act 1986 and The Insolvency Rules 1986 it is quite proper to set up a successor entity similar to the liquidated predecessor business.

It is therefore not illegal or improper to start up a phoenix following the liquidation of the original company. The big proviso is that the Insolvency Rules 1986 must be followed to the letter. If those Rules are not followed the responsible director can be fined, imprisoned, disqualified and made personally liable for the debts of the successor business (Sections 216 and 217 of The Insolvency Act 1986). The process must also be, at best, in the interests of the creditors of the original company and at worst not to the detriment of those creditors.

The vitally important detailed Insolvency Rules to be followed to ensure that the successor company is properly set up and operated can be found by clicking below. The detailed rules concern:

• Acquisition of assets by the phoenix business from the failed predecessor liquidated company. 

• Re-Use of the company name by the successor business

For more information on the Insolvency Rules or on any other question relating to phoenix companies please contact Chris Parkman BSc (Hons), MIPA, MABRP and Licensed Insolvency Practitioner for telephone advice on 01326 240680 or for a FREE INITIAL MEETING. We will explain the relevant liquidation law, rules and procedure  that you need to follow in everyday language.