What can a Bailiff take from my home

The Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013 significantly changed the way in which bailiffs/enforcement agents can pursue all debts. The Regulations also list the items that are exempt from being taken into control by a bailiff. On this page, we address the popular question……what can a bailiff take from my home.

Do I have to allow the bailiff into my home?

It is important to be aware that you are not under any legal obligation to allow a bailiff into your home. You can refuse to allow him into your property  and in most cases, this is what we would recommend.

Will the bailiff remove my household goods?

Secondly, it is very rare indeed for goods to actually be removed with industry sources stating that goods are only removed in less than 0.5% of cases!! In reality, it is the ‘threat’ of goods being removed that a bailiff relies upon for payment.  Whether this is right or wrong, the fact remains, that such a threat very often leads to payment being made.

The good news, is that under the Taking Control of Goods Regulations there are far more items that are exempt from being taken into control by the bailiff.

Items that are exempt from being taken by a bailiff:

Items or equipment (for example, tools, books, telephones, computer equipment and vehicles) which are necessary and for use personally by the debtor in the debtor’s employment, business, trade, profession, study or education. The aggregate value  shall not exceed £1,350;

Clothes, beds, bedding, furniture, household equipment, items and provisions as are reasonably required to satisfy the basic domestic needs of the debtor and every member of the debtor’s household

Cooker or microwave, fridge, washing machine, dining table and dining chairs to seat the debtor and every member of the debtor’s household.

Land line telephone, or a mobile phone

Sufficient lighting and heating facilities

Medical equipment and items needed for the care of a child or elderly person.

Safety and security equipment, eg. burglar alarms, locks and CCTV system

Domestic pets and guide dogs

A vehicle that is displaying a valid Blue Badge and used for the transportation needs of a disabled person.

Will the bailiff take my car?

Motor vehicles are always a problem. They are an attractive and valuable asset and are easy to identify. In most cases, the car is parked on the individuals driveway and this means that the bailiff does not have to gain access into the property. Also, vehicles tend to raise significantly more at auction than household goods. Given the importance of a motor vehicle, and its value, we have a separate page on this subject which can be read here.

Commentary from Bailiff Advice Online

If you have any queries, you can email a question to Bailiff Advice Online using our confidential online Enquiry Form. Alternatively, can contact our free helpline on 01643 841886.  Details are on our Contact page.

Lastly, our Simplified Guide to the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013 can be read  here.