Bailiffs removing vehicle

[derekcat928]

Can someone answer this question.
What checks on a motor vehicle, do bailiffs have to do, before they can levy on it?
When can they clamp it or remove it.
If the vehicle is in a premises with a padlocked gate, can they gain access to remove the vehicle?

[Saffronflowers]

They don't have to make any checks, if the car is visable through the gate they will levy on it, even though they are supposed to be able to touch.

They can clamp it or remove it after they have levied.

If you give us some more info we might be able to help

SFx

[derekcat928]

Thanks for the quick reply.
The car in the premises, belongs to, and is registered to a customer of mine. Obviously, if they check it with DVLA, they can see that it is not my vehicle.
The Council tax bailiffs asked me if it was mine. I told them that it belongs to a customer.
With all the stories I have heard about bailiffs, I fear for the safety of my customer's car.

[Saffronflowers]

If you have informed them of this then in theory they should NOT take it I would almost write them a letter stating this, then they have no excuse.

How much is the debt and how much is the debt?

Sfx

[derekcat928]

Thanks again.
My Council Tax debt is just over £3000.
The car that they had their eyes on is worth about £15000!

[Saffronflowers]

Well, they should not as its worth is far in excess of your debt, though doesn't say that they dont do such things!! Hope it works out, and keep up with your payment arrangement.

SFx

[Herbie]

Due entirely to the value of the car, I would take the good advice of Saffron and write a letter informing the bailiff company of the fact concerning the ownership of the vehicle. It would be a good idea also to send a self addresses envelope and ask them to confirm to you tht they have recieved your letter.

The part apart the car being in excess of the debt. Sorry, but this is not correct. If you refuse to allow the bailiff into the premises where he could levy on goods for a lesser value, then he is allowed to levy on a vehicle that has a more significant value. Always put a vehicle in a garage if possible.

One interesting point that is raised by derekcat concerns entry on to the premises if you have a padlock on the gate. Bailiff collecting FINES on behalf of the Magistrates Courts CANNOT take a vehicle i these circumstances.