Facing a winding-up petition? Learn how to challenge it, negotiate with creditors, and save your company with proven legal strategies and expert guidance.
You have 7 days from service to file your response or pay the debt
Court hearing typically scheduled 21 days after petition is advertised
If petition succeeds, your company is wound up and assets liquidated
A winding-up petition is a legal application to the court requesting that your company be compulsorily liquidated. It's the most serious debt recovery action a creditor can take, effectively seeking to close your business permanently.
Every hour counts when facing a winding-up petition. Follow this action plan to maximize your chances of saving your company.
Contact a licensed insolvency practitioner or solicitor specializing in corporate insolvency immediately.
Review the petition for technical defects, disputed debts, or procedural errors that could invalidate it.
Calculate available funds, assets that can be liquidated, and potential sources of funding.
Attempt immediate negotiation. Many petitioners will withdraw if payment is guaranteed.
File acknowledgment of service and prepare grounds for opposing the petition if applicable.
Consider CVA, administration, or voluntary liquidation as alternatives to compulsory winding-up.
Must be filed within 7 days of service
Supporting evidence for your defense
Financial records, correspondence, contracts
Don't wait until it's too late. Our HMRC debt specialists can often halt enforcement action within 24 hours.