UK house naming rules for homes in Great Britain

UK House Naming Rules

If you are thinking about giving your home a name or changing an existing house name, the rules depend mainly on whether the property already has an official house number.

Local authorities are responsible for official street naming and numbering, so procedures can vary around the UK. The guidance below explains the general position and what to check before making a change.

If Your Property Already Has a House Number

If your home already has an official number, you can normally add a house name as an additional name. The existing number should still be displayed and used as part of the address.

For example, a property numbered 20 can also be called Rose Cottage, while number 20 remains the property's existing number.

House name and number displayed together

If Your Property Has a Name but No Number

If your property does not have an allocated number and its house name forms part of the official address, changing that name is different.

In this situation, check with your Local Council's Street Naming and Numbering service before changing the official address. Your council can explain the process that applies in your area and whether a fee is involved.

House Naming Rules in Brief

✓
A house name can normally be added to a property that already has a number.
✓
The existing house number should still be displayed and used as part of the address.
✓
Changing a name-only official address should be checked with your Local Council.
✓
A new house name should not cause confusion with another nearby address.
✓
Check your own council's current Street Naming and Numbering policy before making an official change.

Check With Your Local Council

There is no single application process used by every council. Requirements and charges can vary, so check the current information for the area in which the property is located.

Find Your Local Council on GOV.UK

Choosing a House Name

Before deciding on a new house name, check whether the same or a very similar name is already being used nearby. Similar property names can cause confusion for visitors, deliveries and emergency services.

It can be useful to have two or three alternative names in mind before making an official application.

Displaying Your House Name

Once you have chosen your house name and completed any requirements that apply, you can choose a sign to suit your property. Explore some of our house sign ranges below.

Need to Display a House Number Too?

If your property has an allocated number, browse our house number signs for number-only designs and plaques.