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 suggest.

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;



Land line telephone, or a mobile phone

Sufficient lighting and heating facilities



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 a debt that is being enforced by bailiffs  and have any query at all, please feel free to contact us.  You can email a question to us using our online Enquiry Form. Alternatively, can contact our helpline. Details are on our Contact page.
