Bailiffs' entry powers curtailed
Published On 22 March 2007
The government has revealed that it is to tighten the rules concerning bailiffs' right to enter the homes of people who may have used debt consolidation loans.Announcing the new system, constitutional affairs minister Vera Baird said: "For too long there has been confusion about the rights of bailiffs and the rights of householders."
Now bailiffs will not be allowed to enter a domestic property until a strict new licensing regime is enforced.
Under the new regulations, which are included in the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill, forced entry will only be an option when all other avenues have been exhausted.
An order will now have to be obtained from a judge before a property can be entered by bailiffs and the option will only be available for debts on unpaid credit cards.
"We have always said forced entry can only be used as a last resort and when all other avenues have been exhausted," Ms Baird explained.
"I'm happy to announce this power will not come into force until those bailiffs who are not Crown employees are licensed by an independent regulator."
Ms Baird added that the new rules would "help to further protect the public".
David Harker, the chief executive of Citizens Advice, commented on the announcement, saying it "goes a long way towards addressing our concerns."
However, Mr Harker added that "regulation must be robust enough to end the years of intimidation, harassment and excessive charging suffered by vulnerable people at the hands of bailiffs."
