“Rundles strongly supports the need for stricter regulations in the industry… this is a very encouraging step…”

The Ministry of Justice recently confirmed the significant tightening of bailiff regulations, which has resulted in the government publishing an updated National Standard for Enforcement Agents.

The improved standards, that define acceptable behaviour by bailiffs, are hoped to the first in a raft of regulation tightening in the industry – something that Rundles has long been a campaigner for. Managing Director Chris Rundle sits on the Executive Committee of CIVEA (Civil Enforcement Agency), which is aimed at promoting higher industry standards in Civil Enforcement.

“Rundles strongly supports the need for stricter regulations in the industry and I have done so personally for many years,” says Chris. “This is a very encouraging step and we support the government on improving legislation further in the near future.”

All staff members at Rundles have to adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and working practices, which are continually evolving to suit the requirements and current legislation.  Our Code of Conduct incorporates all the elements of the National Standards for Enforcement Agents as well as the CIVEA Code of Conduct and Good Practice Guide.

This latest announcement from the Ministry of Justice, which resulted in the updated standards, said the following:

“Today the Government has published updated National Standards for Enforcement Agents which defines acceptable behaviour for bailiffs.

“The voluntary code has been tightened so that people are protected from rogue bailiffs who use unsound, unsafe or unfair methods, while at the same time making sure businesses and authorities can still collect debts fairly.

“Additions to the National Standards tackle intimidating and threatening behaviour, prevent bailiffs from misrepresenting their powers, and reinforce rules about how firms should resolve complaints about rogue agents. Councils and other authorities will adopt the standards which will be used to set rules for any bailiffs working for them.

“The updated National Standards outline the minimum standards of behaviours expected by bailiffs and bailiff firms, including;

• Bailiffs must not behave in a threatening manner or use unlawful force to gain access to a home or business;
• Bailiffs should avoid discussing the debt with anyone except the person owing money, and bailiffs must never behave in a way that would publically embarrass a debtor;
• Bailiffs must withdraw when only a child is present; and
• Bailiffs have a duty of care towards vulnerable people, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, single parents and unemployed people and must use discretion when collecting debts from these groups.

“The announcement today is the first step in Government plans to change the way bailiffs are regulated, to make sure they operate fairly for all concerned.  As Justice Minister Jonathan Djanogly announced the standards, he also outlined proposals to create a new legally-binding regulatory regime for bailiffs.  They include:

• New rules around the modes and times of entry to make it clear when and how an enforcement agent may enter a home or a business;
• Which goods are exempt to make it clear which items an enforcement agent may not take from someone’s home or business premises; and
• What fees bailiffs can charge for the range of debts that they collect for local government, courts and businesses.

“The full proposals will be consulted on in Spring, with a view to the proposals becoming law as soon as possible.”

If you are interested in any of the services provided by Rundles, please contact our Business Development Manager Mike Harkins on 08456 585040 or at mharkins@rundles.org.uk.