Rossendales Bailiffs: What to Do When Enforcement Agents Come Knocking

Rossendales Ltd is one of the largest bailiff and enforcement firms in England and Wales. Established in 1972, the company provides enforcement, debt collection and warrant services to local authorities and public sector bodies. They now operate as part of the Marston Group, one of the UK’s biggest enforcement businesses.

Rossendales are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They work on behalf of over 140 clients, including district councils, metropolitan boroughs, unitary authorities and London boroughs. According to their own figures, they collect tens of millions of pounds on behalf of their clients each year.

Because of their size, if your council uses bailiffs to recover unpaid council tax, there is a strong chance it will be a Rossendales enforcement agent who contacts you. But receiving a letter from them does not mean all hope is lost. There are clear rules about what they can and cannot do, and you have rights at every stage of the process.

The rules governing enforcement agents in England and Wales are set out in the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013. These regulations replaced the old bailiff system and introduced clearer protections for people in debt.

Here is what you need to know:

You do not have to let them in

On their first visit, Rossendales enforcement agents cannot force entry into your home for council tax debt. You must let them in voluntarily. If you do not open the door, they cannot break in. Keep doors and windows locked and speak to them through the letterbox or a window if you choose to engage at all.

If you let them in once, they can return

This is important. If you allow a Rossendales enforcement agent into your home on their first visit, they gain \”controlled goods\” rights. This means they can list your belongings and, if you fail to pay, they can return and use reasonable force to re-enter your property. So think very carefully before opening the door on the first visit.

They can take goods from outside your home

Even if you refuse entry, enforcement agents can take control of goods that are outside your property. This includes vehicles parked on a public road or your driveway. They cannot, however, take items that belong to someone else, tools of your trade up to £1,350 in value, or essential household items such as a cooker, fridge, bedding or clothing.

They must give you notice

Under the 2013 regulations, enforcement agents must give you at least seven clear days’ notice before their first visit. This notice period gives you time to seek advice and, if possible, arrange payment before anyone turns up at your door.

They cannot use unreasonable force

Rossendales enforcement agents cannot break windows, climb over fences or use threats or intimidation. If you believe an enforcement agent has behaved inappropriately, you have the right to make a formal complaint.

The worst thing you can do is ignore the problem. Council tax debt does not go away on its own, and the longer you leave it, the more fees are added and the fewer options you have. Here is a practical step-by-step approach:

1. Do not panic. You have rights, and there are people who can help.
2. Check your council tax account. Make sure the amount Rossendales say you owe is correct. Mistakes do happen, and councils sometimes pursue debts that have already been paid or that are calculated incorrectly.
3. Contact your council directly. Even after bailiffs have been instructed, many councils will agree to recall the debt and set up a payment plan if you get in touch. It costs them less than enforcement action.
4. Get free debt advice. Organisations like Citizens Advice, StepChange and the MoneyHelper service offer free, confidential support.
5. If Rossendales enforcement agents do visit, stay calm. Speak to them through the door. Do not let them in. Ask them to leave their details and tell them you are seeking advice.

If you believe a Rossendales enforcement agent has broken the rules, acted aggressively, misrepresented their powers, or charged you fees that are not permitted, you can:

• Complain directly to Rossendales (Marston Group)
• Complain to your local council, who instructed them
• Contact the Civil Enforcement Association (CIVEA)
• Report the issue to your local councillor or MP
• In serious cases, take the matter to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman

Councils have a responsibility to ensure the enforcement agents they instruct follow the law. Formal complaints are taken seriously and can result in the debt being recalled from bailiffs.