If you’ve been told bailiffs may visit your home, acting quickly is essential. In many cases, you can take steps to stop bailiff enforcement before it starts. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have to protect your belongings and prevent extra fees.
This guide explains how to stop bailiffs coming, what your legal rights are, and how to set up a bailiffs payment plan. You’ll also find links to urgent help if you’re in the UK and facing enforcement.
Step 1: Understand who bailiffs are and what they can do
Bailiffs (also called enforcement agents) are authorised to collect certain debts, usually after a court order has been issued. They may collect:
- Council tax arrears
- Court fines
- Unpaid County Court Judgments (CCJs)
- Certain business debts
- High Court writ debts.
Bailiffs in the UK cannot collect most unsecured debts such as credit cards or personal loans without a court process first.
Remember – bailiffs are not debt collectors. Debt collectors have fewer powers and cannot enter your home without permission. Bailiffs, if acting under a valid warrant, can take control of goods – but there are limits to what they can take.
Step 2: Check the details before you act
If you receive a notice about bailiff action, don’t ignore it. First, confirm:
- Who sent it – is it from a registered enforcement agency?
- What it’s for – does the letter clearly state the debt type and court reference?
- If the debt is yours – you have the right to request proof.
If the paperwork looks wrong, you may be able to challenge the action. Contact the creditor or the court immediately to raise any dispute.
Step 3: Know your legal rights
Understanding your rights can help with bailiffs UK prevention:
- Bailiffs must give at least seven clear days’ notice before their first visit (this is called a Notice of Enforcement) and can visit between 6am and 9pm.
- For most debts, they cannot force entry on the first visit. They can only enter through a door that is unlocked or opened by someone inside.
- Certain items are protected, including essential household goods, tools of your trade, and items belonging to others.
If you feel a bailiff has acted unlawfully, you can complain to their company and, if needed, escalate to the court.
Step 4: Respond before the enforcement date
Once you’ve received the Notice of Enforcement, you have a short window to prevent a visit. Contact the enforcement company straight away to discuss your options.
Acting before the visit is key to stop bailiff enforcement. At this stage, you can:
- Pay the debt in full (if affordable) to close the case.
- Request more time to pay.
- Negotiate a repayment arrangement.
If you ignore the notice, bailiffs can attend your home and add extra fees to your debt.
Step 5: Set up a bailiffs payment plan
If you can’t pay in full, ask to set up a bailiffs payment plan. To do this:
- Work out your budget so you know what you can afford.
- Contact the enforcement company in writing to propose a plan.
- Provide evidence of your financial situation if requested.
Bailiffs must consider reasonable offers based on your ability to pay. If they refuse a fair plan, seek advice from a regulated debt adviser who can speak to them on your behalf.
Step 6: Get help if you can’t afford the debt
If you can’t afford the amount owed, or if bailiff action is part of a wider debt problem, professional help is available. At MoneyPlus, we can help you explore solutions such as:
- Debt Management Plans – reduce monthly payments to unsecured creditors.
- Individual Voluntary Arrangements – a legally binding agreement where some debt may be written off after a set term.
- Types of Debt – see which debts can be enforced by bailiffs and which cannot.
Step 7: What to do if bailiffs arrive
If a bailiff turns up at your home:
- Stay calm and keep the door closed unless you want to let them in.
Ask for identification and a copy of the warrant or writ. - Do not sign any documents you don’t understand.
- If you’ve already made a payment arrangement, show proof.
Remember, bailiffs can’t take essential items such as beds, cookers, fridges, clothing, or tools needed for your work.
Step 8: Challenge unfair or unlawful behaviour
If you believe a bailiff has acted outside the rules:
- Write down exactly what happened, including dates, times, and names.
- Gather any evidence (letters, receipts, recordings if lawful).
- Complain to the enforcement company in writing.
- If unresolved, escalate to the court or the Civil Enforcement Association (CIVEA).
You may be able to reclaim goods or get fees removed if the bailiff’s actions were not legal.
If you’ve received a bailiff notice and aren’t sure what to do, act today. Visit MoneyHelper for impartial advice, or contact us at MoneyPlus to discuss your options and take the right steps to protect your home and possessions.
