---
title: Why can’t I use a Virtual Office as a SAIL?
description: Understand if you can use a Virtual Office as a business SAIL.
---

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# Why can’t I use a Virtual Office as a SAIL?

Virtual office (VO) and mail-handling services are not staffed by your company or by the provider for the purpose of statutory inspections. Because a SAIL must allow physical access to the records within statutory timeframes, a VO address does not meet the legal requirements. Listing a VO as a SAIL can result in non-compliance and possible Companies House queries.

What should a business do instead?

- Keep records at your own premises; or
- Use a staffed location (e.g., your accountant or solicitor’s office) that can host inspections; or

 File an AD03 form to update or remove any incorrect SAIL address.

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