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I have bailiffs at my door
Stay calm. In most cases a bailiff has no right to come in unless you let them. You have time to check who they are and get advice.
What to do right now
- 1Keep the door closed and locked. Talk through the door, a window or a letterbox.
- 2Ask for their name, the company they work for, and which debt they're collecting.
- 3Ask to see their ID and enforcement agent certificate. You can check it on the government's certificated bailiffs register.
- 4Don't sign anything or hand over keys until you've had advice.
- 5Call us on 01872 859 515 — tell us bailiffs are at the door and we'll prioritise you.
What bailiffs can and can't do
- They can only visit between 6am and 9pm.
- For most debts, including council tax and credit card debts, they can't force their way into your home on their first visit.
- They can't take essential items like beds, clothes, cooking equipment, or tools you need for work (up to a set value).
- They must give you a notice of enforcement at least 7 clear days before their first visit.
- If you're vulnerable — for example because of illness, disability, pregnancy or mental health — tell them. They should take this into account.
If you've signed a controlled goods agreement
- This means you've agreed a payment plan and they've listed goods they could take if you stop paying.
- If you miss a payment, they may be allowed to come back and take those goods — so get advice before the plan breaks down.
Useful contacts
These organisations are independent of Hand in Hand Foundation. Details can change, so check their websites.
Your next steps
- Gather any letters from the bailiff company and the original creditor.
- Write down what was said at the door and when.
- Speak to an adviser about an affordable offer, or asking for the debt to go back to the creditor.
This page is general guidance for England and Wales, not legal advice. Talk to an adviser about your own situation.