What Your Notice of Enforcement Actually Means
A Notice of Enforcement (NoE) is a formal warning that an enforcement agent (bailiff) intends to take control of goods if you don’t resolve the debt. In most cases they must wait 7 clear days before their first visit. “Clear days” exclude the day you receive the notice and the day of the visit; Sundays and bank holidays do not count as clear days.
If you act during this window, you can often set up an affordable plan or enter “Breathing Space” to halt enforcement while you get help.
7 Clear-Day Deadline Calculator
We exclude Sundays and England/Wales bank holidays for 2025. If you’re in Scotland/NI or have urgent circumstances, use this as a guide only.
What Counts as ‘Entry’ (And What Doesn’t)
Peaceful entry
Most visits require peaceful entry. Agents can enter through a door that you open or an unlocked door. They can’t push past you, climb in through a window, or enter when the only people home are under 16 or classed as vulnerable. Keep doors and accessible points locked and speak through the letterbox or a window.
When force is possible
For certain debts (e.g., criminal fines or HMRC tax) and with the correct authority, agents may be allowed to use reasonable force for entry at a later stage. Always ask to see ID, the warrant/writ, and take photos of any paperwork.
Bailiff Fees: Compliance, Enforcement & Sale
Fees are set by law and usually follow three stages:
Compliance (£75)
Charged when the notice is issued. You typically have 7 clear days to respond.
Enforcement (£235 + 7.5% over threshold)
Charged when an agent visits. An extra percentage applies above the statutory threshold.
Sale (£110 + 7.5% over threshold)
Charged if goods are removed/sold. Avoiding escalation can save hundreds.
Your Options During the Notice Window
Ask for breathing space
Breathing Space can pause most enforcement and interest while you get debt advice and set up a plan.
Set up an affordable plan
A Debt Management Plan can lower payments. If debts are unaffordable, solutions like an IVA or DRO may write off what you can’t repay.
High-Intent Questions People Ask
Can bailiffs come on Sundays or bank holidays?
Sunday doesn’t count as a “clear day” in your 7-day window. Visits generally avoid late hours and must follow conduct rules; if you’re unsure, get advice fast.
Does texting or emailing count as a Notice of Enforcement?
The notice must be in writing with required details. Many firms send it by post; digital messages may accompany but must meet legal content rules.
How do I check an enforcement agent is certified?
Ask for photo ID and their company; you can check the Certificated Enforcement Agent register online.
FAQs
How do I count “7 clear days”?
Exclude the day you got the notice, the day of the visit, Sundays and bank holidays. Use the calculator above for 2025 dates.
Can I refuse entry?
Yes, in most cases you do not have to let an agent in. Keep doors locked and communicate through a letterbox/window. For certain debts later in the process, force may be allowed—get advice.
Will an affordable plan stop enforcement?
Agreeing a realistic plan or entering Breathing Space often pauses or stops further action.