Bailiffs (except bailiffs acting on behalf of the magistrates' court - see below) cannot seize the following goods:
Tools, goods, vehicles and other items of equipment necessary for use by you in your employment, business or vocation.
Clothing, bedding, furniture, household equipment and provisions as are necessary for satisfying the basic domestic needs of you and your family.
Bailiffs acting on behalf of the magistrates' court cannot seize the following goods:
Clothing, beds and bedding, tools of the trade.
Basic domestic needs of the family would normally include fridge, cookers, freezers, but may not include video recorders, second TVs, jewellery, washing machines, stereos or microwave cookers.
What If A Bailiff Takes Goods That Are Not Mine?
If a bailiff seizes goods that are subject to a Hire Purchase agreement, seek advice urgently. Goods on HP do not belong to you until you make the final payment, but there may be circumstances in which they can be seized.
If goods have been seized wrongfully, then the owner of the goods can apply for them to be returned. If the goods belong to family or friends then a receipt or credit agreement may be required. They can take items jointly owned, however they may take the portion of capital which belongs to you.
Can I Hide Goods?
It is not unlawful for you to remove goods from your house or hide them before a bailiff visits unless the bailiff is distaining for rent. Remember that a bailiff, having gained peaceful entry, can return at any time and if s/he believes that goods have been removed or hidden prior to their visit, this is likely to happen.
