Bailiff rules are changing: New protections for people in debt explained

When you are facing debt problems, a bailiff knocking on the door can be a terrifying ordeal.

This experience can me made even worse by rogue agents who intimidate people into repayments they can't afford.

The government has now announced a crackdown, so that private bailiffs will be held to consistent professional standards.

There will also be an independent complaints process, helping to strengthen rights for people who are dealing with enforcement action.

It comes on top of changes to debt enforcement rules announced earlier this year, which includes a longer notice period before enforcement action can progress and changes to bailiff fees.

Here we detail what you need to know about bailiff rules and how things are changing.

What are the new bailiff rules?

The Government announced that independent oversight will become mandatory for private bailiffs in England and Wales.

Under the plans:

• Bailiffs will have to be accredited by the Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB) themselves, or work for an enforcement firm that is accredited.

• The ECB will be able to set binding rules for the sector.

• Bailiffs and enforcement firms that don't comply with the rules will not be allowed to continue operating.

• People will have access to an independent complaints process through the ECB.

The Government says the measures are intended to ensure people who fall behind on bills are treated fairly and with respect.

The changes are aimed at private bailiffs in England and Wales.

When will the new bailiff rules come into force?

The Government says these latest new measures are expected to take effect next year.

However, there have already been changes to bailiff enforcement rules earlier this year on May 1 2026.

The Taking Control of Goods regulations, which govern enforcement agents (bailiffs) in England and Wales, were changed so that bailiffs must now give at least 14 clear days' notice between a Notice of Enforcement being given and further enforcement action taking place.

The change is aimed at giving people more time to access debt advice or arrange payment and potentially reduce unnecessary doorstep visits and additional enforcement fees.

And if a recognised debt advice provider requests more time on behalf of the person in debt, the notice period can be extended to up to 28 clear days.

The 2026 reforms also introduced a 5% increase in recoverable enforcement fees.

Can a bailiff force their way into my home?

A bailiff can visit your home as part of the enforcement process, but there are rules governing what they can do.

They can only come between 6am and 9pm, the exact powers then depend on the type of debt and the stage the enforcement has reached.

Bailiffs need to follow extra rules if you are classed as vulnerable.

For most debts, enforcement agents can't force entry on their first visit.

You should keep doors locked and don't answer the door, instead try to speak through the door or over the phone, according to Citizens Advice.

Agents will need to tell you which company they are from and give you a number for head office.

You can get free and confidential advice from one of the organisations below.

• Moneywellness. www.moneywellness.comor 0161 518 8285 email at contactus@moneywellness.com for financial advice and debt support.

• Citizens Advice: citizensadvice.org.uk or 0800 144 8848. Free advice on debt, benefits and budgeting

• National Debtline: nationaldebtline.org or 0808 808 4000. Free and confidential by phone and online

• MoneyHelper: moneyhelper.org.uk or 0800 138 7777. Includes a debt advice locator to find help near you

What can bailiffs take from your home?

Bailiffs can take control of certain goods to recover a debt, but there are restrictions on what can be taken.

Essential household items and goods that belong to someone else have extra protections.

For example, if you're renting and a bailiff is trying to take your landlord's property.

However, the rules can be complicated, so if you're facing enforcement action and are worried about your belongings, get debt advice as soon as possible.

What happens if I can't afford to pay a bailiff?

Don't ignore the debt if you can't afford to pay it.

First, get help from a free debt advice organisation, listed below.

Get together an accurate picture of what you can afford to repay rather than agreeing to any amounts that leave you unable to cover essential household costs.

You can get free and confidential advice from:

• Moneywellness. www.moneywellness.comor 0161 518 8285 email at contactus@moneywellness.com for financial advice and debt support.

• Citizens Advice: citizensadvice.org.uk or 0800 144 8848. Free advice on debt, benefits and budgeting

• National Debtline: nationaldebtline.org or 0808 808 4000. Free and confidential by phone and online

• MoneyHelper: moneyhelper.org.uk or 0800 138 7777. Includes a debt advice locator to find help near you