Care and support

Are there any goods that the bailiff cannot seize?

Bailiffs (except bailiffs acting on behalf of the magistrate's court - see below) cannot seize the following goods:

tools, goods, vehicles and other items of equipment necessary for use by you in your employment, business or vocation;

clothing, bedding, furniture, household equipment and provisions as are necessary for satisfying the basic domestic needs of you and your family
Bailiffs acting on behalf of the magistrates' court cannot seize the following goods:

• clothing, beds and bedding
• tools of the trade

Basic domestic needs of the family would normally include fridge, cookers, freezers, but may not include video recorders, second TV's, jewellery, washing machines, stereos or microwave cookers.

Can I hide goods?

It is not unlawful for you to remove goods from your house or hide them before a bailiff visits unless the bailiff is distraining for rent. Remember that a bailiff, having gained peaceful entry, can return at any time and if s/he believes that goods have been removed or hidden prior to their visit, this is likely to happen. For what to do if a bailiff visit is imminent - see below.

What if the bailiff does seize goods that do not belong to me?

If a bailiff seizes goods that are subject to a Hire Purchase agreement, seek advice urgently. Goods on HP do not belong to you until you make the final payment, but there may be circumstances in which they can be seized.

If goods have been seized wrongfully, then the owner of the goods can apply for them to be returned. You will need to get further advice about this.

Will I get advance notice of a bailiff visit?

Local authorities must send you a letter giving 14 days’ notice of a proposed bailiff visit to collect council tax/poll tax. County court bailiffs must issue a warning notice allowing 7 days for you to pay.