Naming or renaming a house is an appealing way to give a property a personal identity, and the process is simpler than many homeowners assume, though there are rules about when a name can replace a number and what notifications must be made.

Who Controls House Names and Numbers

House names and numbers are part of the official address and are controlled by the local authority under the Local Government Act 1972, which gives councils the power to name and number streets and properties. The Royal Mail, Ordnance Survey, and the Local Land and Property Gazetteer all use the local authority's address data as their source. Changing an official address therefore requires going through the council rather than simply deciding to use a different name.

Adding a Name to a Numbered Property

The most straightforward request is to add a name to a property that already has a number. In this case, the house name is added as an optional element alongside the existing number. The official address remains with the number, and both the name and the number can be used. The council is generally supportive of this type of request and there is typically no charge. After the name is added, you should notify your mortgage lender, insurers, bank, DVLA, HMRC, and other organisations that hold your address.

Removing a Number and Using a Name Only

Replacing a house number entirely with a name is more difficult. Councils prefer properties to retain their numbers because numbers make addressing unambiguous and aid emergency services in locating properties quickly. Some councils will not permit the removal of a house number entirely. Where there is a unique name with no other similar names in the street and the council agrees, a name-only address may be permitted, but this is the exception rather than the rule and must be formally approved.

The Application Process

Contact the addressing team at the local council, typically part of the GIS or land and property department, to request a house name change or addition. Many councils accept these requests by email or through an online form. Provide the current address, the proposed name, and the reason for the change. The council will confirm whether the name is acceptable, check that it does not duplicate existing names in the area, and update the official address database.

Once the council has updated their records, inform Royal Mail to update their database, though the council often does this directly. Update the Land Registry title register by submitting an AP1 form. Inform your mortgage lender, insurance provider, driving licence, vehicle registration, and any subscriptions or accounts.

Summary

Changing a house name requires contacting the local authority's addressing team, who control official property addresses. Adding a name alongside an existing number is straightforward; replacing a number with a name requires council approval and is not always permitted. Once approved, notify Royal Mail, update the Land Registry title, and inform all organisations holding your address.