Fiducia TogetherSigning and execution
Who can sign, and how. Getting it wrong can make a document ineffective.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
A simple contract can be signed by anyone with authority. A deed has formalities — signature, witnessing, and delivery — and gives a twelve-year limitation period.
Why it matters
Documents signed by somebody without authority may still bind the company through apparent authority, and documents executed incorrectly as deeds may fail.
What it looks like in practice
Electronic signatures are valid for most commercial contracts. Deeds have specific requirements and property documents have their own rules.\n\nA company may execute by two directors, or a director and secretary, or one director in the presence of a witness.
What to watch out for
Guarantees and property documents, which are usually deeds and where execution errors matter most.
Where to get proper advice
A commercial solicitor for deeds and anything unusual.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.