Can a Bailiff Force Entry for Council Tax Debt?

Bailiffs can collect Council Tax debt but have limits. Learn their powers, when they can visit, how to deal with them, and how to get Council Tax debt written off.

If you owe Council Tax arrears, your local council may take action to recover the debt, including sending bailiffs (enforcement agents) to collect payment or seize belongings. However, bailiffs have strict rules they must follow, and in most cases, they cannot force entry into your home.

This guide explains how councils collect unpaid Council Tax, what powers bailiffs have, and how to deal with enforcement action.

Will Bailiffs Turn Up to Collect Council Tax Arrears?

Yes, if you fail to pay Council Tax, your local council may:

  1. Send payment reminders – If you miss a payment, the council will issue a reminder letter.

  2. Issue a court summons – If you ignore reminders, the council can apply for a Liability Order from the Magistrates' Court.

  3. Pass your debt to bailiffs – If the court grants a Liability Order, the council can instruct bailiffs to recover the debt.

What Steps Do Councils Take to Collect Council Tax Arrears?

Local councils follow a set legal process to collect unpaid Council Tax:

1. Reminder Notices & Final Demand

  • If you miss one payment, you’ll receive a reminder letter.

  • If you don’t pay within 7 days, the council can demand full payment for the year.

2. Court Summons & Liability Order

  • If you ignore reminders, the council can apply to Magistrates’ Court for a Liability Order.

  • A Liability Order gives the council legal power to collect the unpaid tax.

3. Enforcement Action (Bailiffs or Deductions)

Once a Liability Order is issued, the council can:

  • Deduct money from your wages (Attachment of Earnings Order).

  • Take money from benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit).

  • Instruct bailiffs (enforcement agents) to recover the debt.

How Do Bailiffs Try to Recover Council Tax Debt?

If bailiffs are instructed, they will:

  1. Send a "Notice of Enforcement" – You’ll receive a letter giving 7 days to pay before a visit.

  2. Visit your home – If you don’t pay, a bailiff will visit and try to recover the debt.

  3. Take control of goods – If you still don’t pay, they can list your belongings for seizure.

What Fees Can Bailiffs Charge?

  • Sending a Notice of Enforcement: £75

  • First home visit: £235 (plus 7.5% of debt over £1,500)

  • Removing goods for sale: £110 (plus 7.5% of debt over £1,500)

What Rules Do Bailiffs Collecting Council Tax Debt Have to Follow?

Bailiffs must follow strict laws when collecting debt.

  • They must give 7 days' notice before visiting.

  • They can only visit between 6 AM – 9 PM.

  • They cannot take essential items, including:

    • Beds

    • Fridges/cookers

    • Work tools worth less than £1,350

  • They cannot take money directly from your bank account.

If bailiffs break these rules, you can complain to your local council or the bailiff's professional body.

Can a Bailiff Force Entry for Council Tax Debt?

Bailiffs cannot force entry for Council Tax arrears unless special circumstances apply.

For Council Tax debt, bailiffs can only enter if you invite them in or if they have previously been inside and listed items for removal (Controlled Goods Agreement).

How Many Times Can a Bailiff Visit for Council Tax Arrears?

There is no legal limit on how many times a bailiff can visit, but they must:

  • Give notice before each visit.

  • Follow the rules for entering your home.

  • Stop enforcement if you set up a repayment plan.

If you are struggling to pay, speak to your council or seek debt advice before bailiffs escalate their action.

Do Councils Write Off Council Tax Debt?

In rare cases, councils may write off Council Tax debt if:

  • The person owing the debt has died and there are no assets.

  • The person has a severe mental impairment and qualifies for exemption.

  • The debt is over 6 years old (not enforced).

However, councils rarely write off debts voluntarily.

Are There Any Other Ways to Get Council Tax Debt Written Off?

If you can’t afford to pay, consider these options:

  1. Apply for a "Council Tax Reduction" – If you're on a low income, you may qualify for a discount or exemption.

  2. Request a payment plan – Speak to your council to set up monthly instalments.

  3. Seek debt advice – Organisations like StepChange or Citizens Advice can help negotiate payments.

  4. Apply for a Debt Relief Order (DRO) – If you have low income and minimal assets, a DRO can freeze and write off debt after 12 months.

Advice on Bailiffs and Council Tax Arrears

If bailiffs contact you, follow these steps:

Do not let them in – They cannot force entry for Council Tax debt.
Try to pay the council directly – This may stop bailiff action.
Check the bailiff's ID and paperwork – Ensure they are certified enforcement agents.
Seek free debt advice – Contact Citizens Advice or StepChange for help.

If a bailiff acts illegally, complain to:

  • Your local council.

  • The bailiff’s professional body (e.g., CIVEA).

Final Thoughts

  • Bailiffs cannot force entry for Council Tax debt unless they have been inside before.

  • You should never let a bailiff in voluntarily—once they enter, they can seize goods.

  • If you can’t afford Council Tax, contact your local council to discuss payment plans or discounts.

  • Seek help from Citizens Advice or StepChange if you’re struggling with debt.

For more information, visit GOV.UK or contact your local council directly.