Information on Bailiffs

[Neal]

Bailiffs / Sheriffs can not force their way into your property and can only come in via an open window or door (Unlocked) or if you let them in, and only then can they come back at any time and force entry.

Under no circumstances must you let a bailiff enter your property or leave doors and windows unlocked. They will attempt to scare you but don't give in. They can't then return if you have refused entry in the past and break in. Get a CCTV camera, I did ;-) Just close the door on them. If they place their foot in your door they are breaking the law, human rights and all that can come into this too as it's YOUR FAMILY home, not just yours.

Never sign paperwork handed to you, and always speak to them outside your property or in the doorway. Forcing their way past will be assault for a start.

They can remove vehicles in your name if it's parked on the street but they can only take goods to the value of the debt.

I had to read up on this recently and speak to a solicitor for a debt that was in my name unfairly which has since been squashed.

If a debt is to the value of your vehicle, change the vehicle into some other person's name who is not in debt.

In short:

KEEP DOORS AND WINDOWS LOCKED, REFUSE PEACEFUL ENTRY, CLOSE THE DOOR ON THEM OR IGNORE THEM.

[pmhread]

All good advice Neal. If anyone is in debt and being hounded by collectors this site http://www.consumeractiongroup.co.uk is jam packed with all sorts of info about how to reclaim your life from these parasites.

[Poppy]

there but for fortune!
I hope I never need this information but you never know. I have bookmarked the site and thanks Neal i have noted your guide lines.
every one should be aware, things can change so suddenly.

[Madhatter]

Also you should always keep reciepts, they can't take what isn't yours, and if someone else has a reciept for it, it can't be yours can it, especially if it was a cash payment.

[rick-kendall]

I once couldn't prove i had paid cash for a delivery and it got to the stage where they were taking me to court, it was only a small amount (350 quid) but i wasn't paying twice and that was that.

Now heres the thing to remember, if its a small amount and you are being taken to court move the case to a court near yourself.

the company that tried to take me to court were from glasgow, and when i applied to move the case to burnley they dropped it.

It not worth there while to send somebody out for a small amount.