What Can Bailiffs Take?

If a bailiff does gain peaceful entry, they can only take certain things — and a surprising amount is protected by law.

What is usually protected

Items needed for basic domestic needs are exempt. That typically includes a cooker or microwave, a fridge, beds and bedding, essential furniture such as a table and chairs, and items needed for the care of children or anyone in the household who is ill or disabled. Tools, books and equipment you need for your work are also protected, up to a total value of £1,350.

What can be taken

Bailiffs tend to target non-essential goods of resale value — for example a second television, games consoles, jewellery, or a vehicle that isn’t essential. They cannot take items that clearly belong to someone else, although you may need to provide proof such as a receipt or finance agreement.

Controlled goods agreements

Rather than removing items immediately, a bailiff will often list goods and ask you to sign a controlled goods agreement, leaving the items with you while you pay. If you keep to the agreement, nothing is taken. Break it, and they may return to collect the listed goods.

If you have few non-essential possessions, read what if I have nothing for bailiffs to take. To stop the process entirely, an IVA protects you from enforcement on the debts it includes.

Free, independent debt advice is also available from MoneyHelper, StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice.