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Bailiff Fees

Bailiff Fees for Council Tax Debts

Know the legal limits • Understand the charges • Protect your rights

Challenge Excessive Fees

⚠️ Are You Being Overcharged?

Bailiffs can only charge fixed maximum fees set by law. Many people pay more than they legally should.

Compliance: £75 Max

Enforcement: £235 Max*

Sale: £110 Max*

*Plus 7.5% of debt over £1,500

Legal Three-Stage Process & Maximum Fees

1

Compliance Stage

Maximum Fee: £75

  • Notice of Enforcement sent by post
  • 7 clear days to pay or arrange payment
  • No bailiff visit at this stage
  • Can be avoided by making payment plan

✓ Best time to resolve

2

Enforcement Stage

Maximum Fee: £235*

  • Bailiff visits your property
  • Taking control of goods (if they gain entry)
  • Controlled goods agreement created
  • Inventory of items listed for removal

⚠️ Can still negotiate

3

Sale Stage

Maximum Fee: £110*

  • Goods physically removed from property
  • Items prepared for auction
  • Storage costs may be added
  • 7-day notice before sale required

❌ Most expensive stage

*Plus 7.5% of the debt amount over £1,500

What Is and Isn’t Included in Legal Fees

✓ Included in Fixed Fees

  • All standard enforcement activity
  • Time spent on case (no hourly rates)
  • Travel costs to and from your property
  • Basic documentation (notices, agreements)
  • Phone calls and letters
  • First visit and reasonable follow-up visits

❌ NOT Allowed as Extra Charges

  • “Administrative fees” on top of fixed fees
  • Mileage or petrol charges
  • “Investigation fees” or research costs
  • Multiple compliance fees for same debt
  • “Urgent action” surcharges
  • Fees for unsuccessful visits (if you’re not in)

How to Challenge Excessive or Illegal Fees

If you’ve been charged more than the legal maximums:

  • ✓ Request detailed fee breakdown in writing
  • ✓ Compare charges to legal maximums
  • ✓ Challenge with bailiff company first
  • ✓ Escalate to creditor (council/court)

Keep records of:

  • • All fee demand letters
  • • Controlled goods agreements
  • • Payment receipts
  • • Visit dates and times

Get Help Challenging Fees

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Challenge Excessive Bailiff Fees

Get expert help ensuring you only pay what the law requires.

✓ Challenge excessive fees ✓ Know legal limits ✓ Get money back


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