Bailiff letter re council tax arrears

kat79

It seems that OH has got behind with the C Tax payments to the tune of around £500. Its all in his name which is why I haven't seen the letters. To cut a long story short, a letter arrived the other day saying that there have been repeated attempts at contact and bailiff visits and soon they would be coming to take possession of goods etc. Now, I rarely go out at the mo as am heavily pregnant and have been v ill with it. Also we have a very woofy dog that wouldn't let anyone come to the door unannounced! There have been no calling cards through the door, so I'm inclined to believe that no one has called at all. Should I take notice of this letter? I don't know there is much I can do as its not in my name??

Also, if I were to inadvertantly open the door to a bailiff would they be able to force the door open and come in? Not being particularly strong at the mo it does worry me that that could happen.

Thanks

dotstar24

Bump!!!!!!!!!!!

GeorgeUK

No

They are only allowed to enter if invited in or if they gain "peaceful entry". This includes going through an unlocked door or window. Pushing past you is not peaceful. There is something somewhere about the "foot in the door" thing - i'll have a hunt after lunch if nobody posts it up beforehand.

Edit: http://www.insolvencyhelpline.co.uk/debt_basics/bailiff-guide.php

One thing i would advise. After making sure all your windows and doors are locked, if a bailiff does come round, close the curtains. If you allow them into your house once, they can come back and do a walk in posession order. Some skip this part and look through your window to see what goods you have. This kind of bailiff is few and far between, but it's a precaution i would take.