UK House Naming Guide

Guide for naming properties in the UK

How to Name Your Home in the UK

Here's what you should do to add or change a house name for your property.

Personalising your home by giving it a name is a relatively easy procedure, although it is advisable to check with your Local Authority if there are any requirements for approval when the property is already numbered.

Naming a House That Already Has a Number

The general rule for naming your home is as follows: if your property has already been designated a number, you should continue to display the house number clearly within the boundary of the property and use the house number as part of your address. You can then also choose to use a house name that you like.

For example, if your house number is 20 and you decide to name your house Rose Cottage, the house name can be displayed alongside the existing property number.

House address plate showing Rose Cottage and house number 20

What If Your Property Has a House Name and No Number?

The rule is different if your property already has an existing house name and no allocated house number. In this situation, the registered house name can form part of the official address.

If you wish to change the name of the property, check with your Local Council first. Local authorities have different rules and procedures for changing an existing house name, so check the Street Naming and Numbering requirements for your area before using the new name as your official address.

How to Add or Change a House Name

1
Check your existing address — establish whether your property already has an allocated number, a registered house name or both.
2
Choose your preferred house name — it is worth having a few alternatives in mind in case your first choice is too similar to another property nearby.
3
Check with your Local Council — find its Street Naming and Numbering information and follow the procedure that applies in your area. Some councils may charge a fee.
4
Update your address details where necessary — after an official change has been accepted, make sure relevant organisations and personal contacts have your correct address.

Check for Similar House Names Nearby

If a property in the local neighbourhood already has the same house name that you have chosen, or a very similar name, it could cause confusion. It is worthwhile checking existing house names in your area and thinking of several alternatives before applying to your council.

Most UK local councils have information online explaining their house naming and street numbering policy.

Find your local council on GOV.UK

Popular house names in the UK

Displaying Your House Name

Once you've chosen your house name and completed any requirements that apply in your area, displaying it clearly makes the property easier for visitors, deliveries and other callers to identify.

If your property also has an allocated number, the name and number can be displayed together. When you're ready to choose a sign, explore our house signs.