Illegal Bailiff Fees: What You Can Refuse to Pay in 2026
Updated for 2026
Facing bailiff action can be overwhelming, but knowing which fees are illegal can save you hundreds of pounds. Many bailiffs in Manchester and across the UK add charges that you are not legally required to pay. This comprehensive guide explains your rights and which bailiff fees you can legally refuse.
Understanding Legal vs Illegal Bailiff Fees
Bailiffs can only charge fees that are specifically authorised by law. The Taking Control of Goods (Fees) Regulations 2014 set strict limits on what bailiffs can charge. Any fee not covered by these regulations is potentially illegal.
Legal Bailiff Fees You Must Pay
Under current legislation, bailiffs can legally charge:
- Compliance stage fee: £75 (when bailiff sends first notice)
- Enforcement stage fee: £235 (when bailiff first visits your property)
- Sale stage fee: £110 (when goods are removed for sale) or 7.5% of sale proceeds over £1,500
- Locksmith fees: Only if peaceful entry is impossible and forced entry is legally permitted
- Storage costs: Reasonable costs for storing removed goods
- Vehicle inspection: £18.50 if vehicle valued over £1,350
Common Illegal Bailiff Fees to Refuse
Many Manchester residents report being charged these illegal fees that you can refuse to pay:
Administration and Processing Fees
Bailiffs often add £50-£200 “admin fees” or “processing charges” that have no legal basis. These are particularly common in council tax bailiff cases in Manchester and Sale. You can refuse these entirely.
Multiple Visit Fees
Some bailiff companies charge additional fees for each visit. The law only allows one enforcement stage fee of £235, regardless of how many visits they make. Subsequent visit fees are illegal.
Telephone and Letter Charges
Charges for phone calls, additional letters, or “contact fees” are not permitted under the regulations. The compliance stage fee already covers initial contact costs.
Valuation Fees
Bailiffs cannot charge for valuing your goods unless they’re conducting a specific vehicle inspection (£18.50 for vehicles over £1,350). General valuation fees are illegal.
Waiting Time Charges
Some bailiffs add fees for “waiting time” if you’re not immediately available. This is not a recognised fee and can be refused.
How to Challenge Illegal Bailiff Fees
Step 1: Request a Fee Breakdown
Always request a detailed breakdown of all charges. Bailiffs must provide this under the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007. Many Manchester residents successfully challenge fees simply by asking for justification.
Step 2: Compare Against Legal Limits
Check each fee against the Taking Control of Goods Regulations. Highlight any charges that exceed legal limits or have no statutory basis.
Step 3: Formal Complaint Process
If bailiffs refuse to remove illegal fees:
- Complain to the creditor (council, court, or debt collection agency)
- Contact the bailiff company’s complaints department
- Report to relevant regulatory bodies (CIVEA for certificated bailiffs)
- Seek advice from Manchester Citizens Advice or local debt advisors
Special Protections for Vulnerable People
Enhanced protections apply if you’re classified as vulnerable:
- Mental health conditions
- Physical disabilities
- Serious illness
- Recent bereavement
- Pregnancy
- Children under 16 in the household
Bailiffs must take special care with vulnerable people and cannot add certain fees if vulnerability is declared.
Council Tax Bailiffs in Manchester
Manchester City Council and neighbouring authorities like Trafford (covering Sale) use various bailiff companies for council tax collection. Common issues include:
Illegal Add-On Charges
Many council tax bailiffs in Greater Manchester add unauthorised fees. Always challenge these with both the bailiff company and the council directly.
Your Rights During Council Tax Recovery
You can:
- Request payment plans directly with the council
- Apply for council tax support or discretionary relief
- Challenge the bailiff instruction if fees are excessive
- Contact Manchester City Council’s recovery team to discuss alternatives
What to Do If You’ve Already Paid Illegal Fees
If you’ve already paid fees you now realise were illegal:
Request a Refund
Contact the bailiff company in writing requesting a refund of illegal charges. Keep copies of all correspondence.
Complain to the Creditor
The original creditor (council, court, or debt agency) has responsibility for their bailiffs’ actions. They can order refunds and prevent future illegal charging.
Small Claims Court Action
For significant amounts, consider small claims court action against the bailiff company for recovery of illegal fees plus costs.
Prevention: Know Your Rights
The best protection is knowledge:
- Never pay fees without questioning their legal basis
- Always request written breakdown of all charges
- Know the legal fee limits and don’t accept excuses
- Seek immediate advice if unsure about any charges
- Document everything – keep records of all bailiff contact
Where to Get Help in Manchester
Local debt advice services can help challenge illegal bailiff fees:
- Manchester Citizens Advice: Free debt and bailiff advice
- Sale Citizens Advice: Covering Trafford residents
- National Debtline: 0808 808 4000 (free advice line)
- StepChange Debt Charity: Online debt advice and bailiff help
Conclusion
Don’t let bailiffs intimidate you into paying illegal fees. The law is clear about what bailiffs can charge, and illegal bailiff fees can be successfully challenged. Many Manchester residents save hundreds of pounds by knowing their rights and refusing unauthorised charges.
Remember: bailiffs cannot add fees that aren’t specifically authorised by law. When in doubt, seek advice before paying any disputed charges. Your rights are protected, and help is available.
If you’re facing bailiff action in Manchester, Sale, or anywhere in the UK, understanding these rules can make a significant difference to your financial situation. Knowledge is power when dealing with debt recovery.