Can bailiffs force entry with a warrant of control?
No, a warrant of control does not let bailiffs force entry. If bailiffs force their way in, you can make a complaint.
Bailiffs can apply for a separate warrant to force entry for CCJs, but only if:
- The judgment is to do with a business address, or
- You moved your goods to another place to stop them being taken
Find out more about what bailiffs can and cannot do.
What can bailiffs take with a warrant of control?
Television and films make it look like bailiffs can take everything from your home, but this is not true. Bailiffs should only look for things that are worth enough to pay off your debt.
They are only allowed to take things that are at the property when they visit, like cars, electrical items and jewellery.
They must leave you with basic household items.
Read our guide to what bailiffs can and cannot take to find out more.
What types of debts can use a warrant of control?
A warrant of control can only be used to enforce CCJs for:
- Any debt regulated by the Consumer Credit Act 1974
- Any unregulated debts with a value of less than £5,000
What happens if I owe more than £5,000 of unregulated debts?
The people you owe need a High Court writ of control to take control of goods for these debts.
Find out more about what debts bailiffs can collect.
Are there any warrant of control fees?
The people you owe pay a fee when they apply for the warrant of control.
The standard fee of £94 is then added to your debt.
A lower fee may be added if the person you owe uses Money Claims online or National Business Centre. You can find the fee amount on the breakdown of fees on your warrant.
Read more about bailiff fees and costs that may be added.