Tips and recommendations 

Can bailiffs enter property without permission?

Leia Doyle

Can bailiffs enter property without permission?

Bailiffs are only allowed to try to come into your home between 6am and 9pm. You shouldn’t let a bailiff into your home – it’s always best to try to sort out your debt by keeping them outside and speaking through the door or over the phone.

Can a bailiff visit my place of work?

Bailiffs can visit someone else’s property if your goods are stored there, but they need a court warrant first. If you’re self-employed they can visit your business address. But if you work for someone else they shouldn’t call at your workplace. They can also take any goods you’ve left on a highway, including your car.

Can bailiffs enter business premises?

In general, bailiffs can’t force entry into your business premises or home. They must be invited or allowed in. The only circumstances in which bailiffs can force entry are if: They are chasing an unpaid magistrates’ court fine.

Can an enforcement officer enter your premises?

HMRC Enforcement Officers have the right to force entry into premises which are solely commercial, but only if they have been authorised by a Justice of the Peace.

What bailiffs can and Cannot take?

From your home, bailiffs can take any items that belong to you, any jointly-owned items, any cash, cheques, or other monetary items you may have such as bonds or pawn tickets. They can’t take any items that are leased or on hire-purchase or any items that belong to somebody else or a child.

How do I get a bailiff warrant?

If a tenant fails to vacate by the Possession Date, the landlord can apply for a Warrant of Possession (a County Court Bailiff). Once a request for a warrant has been filed at court together with the appropriate court fee, the court will issue a warrant number.

What rights do enforcement agents have?

Bailiffs, also known as Enforcement Agents, are not allowed to force entry into your home. The only exceptions to this are if you owe money to HMRC, have magistrates’ court fines or have a Stamp Duty liability. You should be given reasonable notice of any intention to visit.