How to find someone’s address in the UK

Tracing someone’s address in the United Kingdom requires adherence to the country’s laws and regulations. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to trace someone’s address within the bounds of the law while respecting privacy and ethical considerations. Additionally, we will explore the role of professional tracing agencies, such as UK Tracing, in assisting with address tracing legally and responsibly.

Utilise Publicly Available Information
Conduct online searches using search engines, social media platforms, and professional networking sites. Pay attention to any personal information the individual shares, such as job details, educational background, or location tags in posts. Additionally, check local directories or publicly available databases like the UK Electoral Roll to gather potential leads for the person’s address.


Consult UK-Specific Databases and Government Records
The UK has several dedicated databases that provide access to public records. Utilize resources such as the UK Companies House, the Land Registry, and the UK Census to search for information regarding the person’s address. Be mindful of the specific criteria for accessing these databases and ensure compliance with data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).


Engage a Professional Tracing Agency like UK Tracing
When other methods prove challenging or time-consuming, consider the services of a professional tracing agency. UK Tracing is a reputable agency specializing in locating individuals within the UK. Tracing agencies possess the expertise, access to databases, and legal knowledge to conduct address searches effectively. They adhere to strict guidelines, privacy laws, and ethical standards while ensuring data protection compliance. Working with a tracing agency can expedite the process and provide reliable results, particularly in complex cases or when legal requirements must be met.


Understand Legal Considerations and Obtain Consent
Understanding and complying with the legal framework surrounding address tracing in the UK is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the Data Protection Act 2018, the GDPR, and the relevant codes of practice. In most cases, you will require a lawful basis for processing personal data, such as legitimate interest or consent. Ensure you have a valid reason for your search and obtain the necessary consent when applicable, especially if you are an individual conducting the trace. Professional tracing agencies like UK Tracing are well-versed in these legal requirements and can guide you accordingly.


Tracing someone’s address in the UK necessitates a responsible and lawful approach. Utilise publicly available information, consult UK-specific databases and government records and engage reputable tracing agencies like UK Tracing when necessary. By adhering to legal considerations, obtaining consent when required, and upholding privacy and ethical standards, you can trace someone’s address in the UK while respecting individuals’ rights and safeguarding personal data.

Remember, the services of professional tracing agencies can provide valuable assistance, ensuring a comprehensive and compliant approach to address tracing.


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tracing agent?

Tracing agents specialise in finding the current address for your subject. Use cases include locating your debtors, getting an up to date address to serve legal documents and reconnecting with old customers, friends or family.

What does 'no trace, no fee' mean?

For our address tracing service, if we can’t find a new address or confirm the current address for your subject, you don’t pay. In the rare event of this happening, your payment will be refunded in full.

What counts as a positive trace?

A trace is regarded as positive when we either find a new address, or confirm the current address for your subject.

Who are UK Tracing?

UK Tracing are a people tracing service, locating your gone-away customers of family and friends to a new address. A trading style of STA International Limited, we have over 20 years experience in tracing our clients’ gone-away subjects.

Can I place multiple files to be traced?

We provide regular and bulk tracing services to numerous letting agents and solicitors. To enquire about discounts that are available for bulk and repeat traces, please contact us on 01622 528 544 or email us at [email protected]

Do you offer a trace and collect service?

As part of leading UK debt collection agency, STA International, we do offer trace and collect services. We’ll trace your subject to their current address and then attempt to collect the debt owed to you. Contact us for more information on this service.

What information do you need to start a trace?

To start tracing, we usually need basic information such as the name, date of birth, last known address, and any relevant information. The more details you can provide, the quicker and more accurate the search will be.

What is beneficiary tracing?

Beneficiary tracing involves locating individuals who are entitled to inherit from a will, estate, or trust. This service is often used when family members or heirs are missing or unknown, and their whereabouts need to be confirmed to settle the estate.

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