Bailiff Fees and Charges: What You Can and Cannot Be Charged in 2026

If bailiffs are trying to collect a debt from you, understanding what fees they can and cannot charge is crucial for protecting yourself from excessive costs. Many people unknowingly pay inflated bailiff fees because they don’t understand their rights under current UK legislation.

Legal Framework for Bailiff Fees

Bailiff fees are strictly regulated under the Taking Control of Goods (Fees) Regulations 2014. These regulations set maximum amounts that enforcement agents can charge, and any fees above these limits are illegal.

Standard Bailiff Fees You Can Be Charged

Compliance Stage Fee: £75

This is charged when the bailiff first sends you a notice of enforcement. It covers:
– Sending the initial notice
– Attempting telephone contact
– Administrative costs

Enforcement Stage Fee: £235 or £110

This fee applies when a bailiff visits your property:
– £235 for debts over £1,500
– £110 for debts under £1,500

Sale Stage Fee: £525 or £110

If goods are removed and sold:
– £525 for debts over £1,500
– £110 for debts under £1,500

Additional Costs That May Apply

Storage Fees

If bailiffs remove goods, they can charge:
– Up to £12.50 per day for storage
– Must provide secure, insured storage
– Cannot charge excessive periods

Vehicle Costs

Only if actually incurred:
– Reasonable towing fees (if your vehicle is removed)
– Van hire for removing goods
– Must provide receipts and justification

Enforcement Agent’s Time

£45 per hour for time reasonably spent:
– Dealing with complaints
– Attending court hearings
– Time beyond standard enforcement

Fees You CANNOT Be Charged

Illegal Charges to Watch For

Lock Changes
Bailiffs cannot charge you for changing locks. If they secure your property, this is done at their own expense.

Admin Fees
No additional administrative fees beyond the standard compliance stage fee of £75.

“Investigation” Fees
Bailiffs cannot charge for investigating your circumstances or assets.

Multiple Visit Fees
Only one enforcement stage fee applies, regardless of how many times they visit.

Excessive Storage
Storage over £12.50 per day or for unreasonably long periods is illegal.

High Court vs County Court Enforcement

High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEOs)

– Can charge 7.5% + VAT on debt value
– Have wider powers but same fee structure applies
– Often used for larger debts over £600

County Court Bailiffs

– Strictly limited to statutory fees
– Cannot add percentage charges
– More restricted in powers

Your Rights Regarding Bailiff Fees

Right to Fee Breakdown

You’re entitled to:
– Detailed breakdown of all charges
– Receipts for any additional costs
– Explanation of how fees were calculated

Right to Challenge Excessive Fees

If you believe fees are excessive:
– Request detailed justification
– Complain to the bailiff company
– Contact the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
– Apply to court for fee reduction

Right to Payment Plans

You can negotiate:
– Payment plans for both debt and fees
– Reduced fees in cases of hardship
– Suspension of enforcement action

Special Protections for Vulnerable People

If you or someone in your household is:
– Disabled or have mental health conditions
– Elderly or seriously ill
– Pregnant or have young children
– Recently bereaved

Bailiffs must:
– Consider your circumstances
– Offer alternative payment arrangements
– Refer to appropriate support services

What to Do If Overcharged

Immediate Steps

1. Don’t pay disputed fees immediately
2. Request written breakdown of all charges
3. Keep detailed records of all interactions
4. Photograph any documents provided

Formal Complaints Process

1. Contact the bailiff company directly
2. Escalate to creditor if no resolution
3. Complain to trade associations (CIVEA, HCEOA)
4. Contact ombudsman services
5. Consider court action for unlawful fees

Manchester and Greater Manchester Resources

Local Support Services

Citizens Advice Manchester:
– Multiple locations across Manchester
– Free debt and bailiff advice
– Representation in fee disputes

Greater Manchester Law Centre:
– Specialist legal advice
– Help with formal complaints
– Representation in court proceedings

Trafford Citizens Advice:
– Local support for Sale residents
– Bailiff rights workshops
– One-to-one advice sessions

Preventing Excessive Fees

Early Action

– Respond to first notices promptly
– Negotiate payment plans before enforcement
– Seek debt advice from free services
– Know your rights before bailiffs arrive

Communication Strategy

– Be polite but firm about fee queries
– Ask for everything in writing
– Don’t admit liability for disputed fees
– Record all conversations

Court Action and Fee Appeals

When to Consider Court Action

– Fees significantly exceed statutory limits
– Bailiffs refuse to provide breakdown
– Evidence of deliberate overcharging
– Other enforcement irregularities

Success Factors

Recent court cases show success when:
– Detailed records kept of all interactions
– Clear evidence of excessive charging
– Proper complaint procedures followed
– Professional legal advice obtained

Common Bailiff Fee Myths

Myth: “Administrative Costs” Are Extra

Truth: All admin costs are included in the £75 compliance fee

Myth: Bailiffs Can Charge What They Want

Truth: Fees are strictly regulated by law with maximum limits

Myth: You Must Pay Immediately

Truth: You can dispute fees and request breakdowns

Myth: Storage Fees Are Unlimited

Truth: Maximum £12.50 per day with strict justification required

Getting Help and Support

Free Debt Advice Services

– StepChange Debt Charity: 0800 138 1111
– National Debtline: 0808 808 4000
– Citizens Advice: 03444 111 444
– PayPlan: 0800 280 2816

Legal Support

– Legal Aid: Available for certain circumstances
– Law Centres: Free legal advice in some areas
– Pro Bono Services: Free legal help from volunteers

Conclusion

Understanding bailiff fees and charges is essential for protecting yourself from exploitation. Remember that fees are strictly regulated, and you have strong rights to challenge excessive charges.

The key is knowing what you can and cannot be charged, keeping detailed records, and seeking help when needed. Don’t let bailiff companies intimidate you into paying unlawful fees.

If you’re facing bailiff action, contact free debt advice services immediately. Early intervention can often prevent enforcement action altogether and save you hundreds of pounds in unnecessary fees.

This information is for guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and regulations may change. Always seek current professional advice for your specific situation.