The visit can usually be stopped by paying or agreeing a plan with whoever you owe, and getting debt advice early gives you more options.
Quick facts
- Notice
- Usually 14 days before the first visit
- Letting them in
- Usually not required
- Not allowed
- Force, 9pm to 6am, only children home
- Always ask for
- ID and a breakdown of the debt
When a bailiff can visit
A bailiff (‘enforcement agent’) may visit your home if you do not pay your debts - such as Council Tax bills, parking fines, court fines and county court, high court or family court judgments.
This will happen if you ignore letters saying that bailiffs will be used.
When they cannot come in
Bailiffs cannot enter your home:
- by force, for example by pushing past you
- if only children under 16 or vulnerable people (with disabilities, for example) are present
- between 9pm and 6am
- through anything except the door
Bailiffs are allowed to force their way into your home to collect unpaid criminal fines, Income Tax or Stamp Duty, but only as a last resort.
Check who they are
Before you let a bailiff in to take your things or pay them, ask to see proof of their identity, which company they’re from, a telephone contact number, and a detailed breakdown of the amount owed.
Anyone who claims to be a bailiff when they are not is committing fraud.
If you are vulnerable
You may be able to get extra time to make a payment or get debt advice if you’re a vulnerable person (for example, you have mental health problems or are seriously ill). See free debt help.
Common questions
Do I have to let a bailiff in?
Usually not. You usually do not have to open your door to a bailiff or let them in.
How much notice do bailiffs give?
Bailiffs must usually give you at least 14 days’ notice of their first visit.
Can bailiffs come at night?
No. They cannot enter between 9pm and 6am.
What should I ask a bailiff for?
Proof of identity, the company, a phone number and a detailed breakdown of what is owed.