Bailiffs at the door? Your rights with enforcement agents

Who are bailiffs?

Bailiffs, now officially called enforcement agents, collect certain debts on behalf of councils, courts and some creditors — commonly council tax arrears, parking penalties, magistrates' court fines and county court judgments.

You must get a Notice of Enforcement first

In England and Wales, bailiffs must usually send you a Notice of Enforcement giving at least seven clear days before they visit. Use this time to contact them, or the creditor, and offer an affordable payment arrangement.

What bailiffs can't do

• Enter your home by force for most debts on a first visit
• Enter between 9pm and 6am
• Take essential items such as beds, cookers, fridges or tools needed for work up to a set value
• Take items belonging to someone else
• Enter if only children under 16 or vulnerable people are at home

Do I have to let them in?

For most debts, you do not have to let a bailiff in. Keep doors locked and speak through a window or letterbox. Be aware that bailiffs can enter through any unlocked door, and can take vehicles parked on the road.

What to do now

• Don't ignore letters — check who the bailiff is acting for
• Tell them if you are vulnerable (for example illness, disability or pregnancy)
• Offer an affordable payment plan and keep a record of all contact
• Consider Breathing Space, which can pause enforcement for 60 days
• Get help quickly — our team can introduce you to specialist support

More guides

• Got a County Court Judgment (CCJ)? What it means and what to do
• Council tax arrears: what happens if you fall behind
• The Breathing Space scheme: pause interest and creditor action for 60 days