Debt and enforcement agents

You can get free, independent and unbiased advice over the phone:

• National Debt Line on 0808 808 4000
• Debt Charity Step Change ar 0800 138 1111
• Citizens Advice Bureau
• GOV.UK

Since 6 April 2014, the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013 and the Taking Control of Goods (Fees) Regulations 2014 have come into force.

The legislation ensures that Enforcement Agents (formerly bailiffs) are more accountable for their actions and sets out the procedure that Enforcement Agents must follow when taking control of goods and selling them to recover the debt.

After 6th April 2014, the Council may direct an Enforcement Agent to collect the debt on Business Rates from you if you have been given notice of a Liability Order. We may do this if you have not made or adhered to an agreed repayment plan or if we have failed to collect the debt by other means.

Before we remit your debt to the Enforcement Agent, we will send you a letter to inform you of the additional costs you may be charged if Enforcement Agents are directed to collect the debt.

To avoid your Business Taxes debt being referred to an Enforcement Agent for collection, you should contact us to discuss your arrears. We will look at your circumstances and try to negotiate a payment plan.

(01639) 686843

Once your account has been sent to the Enforcement Agent any payments or offers of refund should be made to the Enforcement Agent and NOT the Council.