Feeling anxious about a broken arrangement with Jacobs Bailiffs? Stay calm. You’ve come to the right place for guidance. Yes, Dealing with debt can be a challenging and often confusing journey.
Whether you’re grappling with understanding your debt obligations or seeking ways to manage them, this article provides clear, straightforward advice to navigate these waters in 2023.
But what’s the first crucial step you should take in dealing with Jacobs Bailiffs? Read on to discover…
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Who Are Jacobs Bailiffs?
Jacobs Bailiffs, also known as Jacobs Enforcement, is a well-established debt collection agency in the UK. Their primary role is collecting debts for companies and courts. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Enforcing Court Orders: They ensure debtors pay up as ordered by the courts.
- Strict Adherence to Law: As accredited agents, Jacobs Bailiffs follow a stringent process for debt recovery, strictly adhering to UK law.
- Regulated Fees: They don’t just add fees randomly; all charges are regulated by UK law.
- Specialised Areas: Their main focus is collecting council tax debts for local authorities and working with the HM Courts and Tribunals Service in Wales.
- Decades of Experience: Jacobs Bailiffs isn’t new to this game; they’ve been around for years.
So, what happens when you find yourself dealing with Jacobs Bailiffs? How do their years of experience and strict adherence to laws affect your debt situation? Let’s dive deeper into what this means for you.
Are Jacobs High Court Bailiffs?
While Jacobs Bailiffs doesn’t explicitly state their role as High Court bailiffs, they collaborate closely with Wilson & Roe, specialists in High Court enforcement. Also, they are not registered under the High Court Enforcement Officers Association Website.
This association is vital to understand as it influences how they operate and enforce debt collection.
Online Reviews of Jacobs Bailiffs
When it comes to Jacobs Bailiffs, opinions vary significantly. Online, you’ll find a blend of positive and negative feedback about Jacobs Bailiffs.
These varied reviews paint a picture of a company with diverse customer interactions. So, what might your experience with Jacobs Bailiffs be like? Understanding these differing perspectives can prepare you for potential outcomes when dealing with them.
Here’s a snapshot of the contrasting reviews they receive:
“I was stuck in a world of debt, and everything good around me crumbled. I handled it the wrong way by hiding and hoping it would go away. Then came the letters. But I was lucky my debt had gone to Jacobs. It was a lady bailiff that came (I don’t want to give her name without her permission), but she was amasing. So kind and understanding…read more” –Paul Forrester
“This company are nothing but bullies, my vulnerable single parent daughter had a £35 parking fine that escalated through these people to £424.00 they refused to accept a repayment plan that was realistic and made threats to call at 6 am to remove goods despite being offered £100 per week…read more” –Phillipa Flecther
“Spoke to an agent recently, and he decided to lie about being able to set up a monthly arrangement that’s affordable for me. Apparently I have till end of the month to make a full payment so I’ll be contacting the council regarding this and my lifelong illness…read more” –Wongani
Why is Jacobs Bailiffs Contacting Me?
If Jacobs bailiffs reach out to you, it is most likely because you owe money. Since they recover money for both companies as well as the courts, it could mean that you owe money, and they are collecting it on their behalf.
Types of debt that they collect are as follows:
- Council Tax
- Non Domestic Rate
- Commercial Rent Arrears
- Parking Penalty Charge Notices
- Housing Benefit Overpayments
- Former Tenant Arrears
- Sundry Debt
- Miscellaneous Income
So, if you owe money to one of the following, this may be the reason why they are reaching out to you. But note that mistakes are not uncommon in the debt collection industry. So, there is a chance they have contacted you assuming you’re someone else or they’ve got the wrong address.
Jacobs Bailiffs Contacted Me, What Should I Do?
If Jacob Bailiffs contacted you asking you to pay, it is best that you pay them. But if you’re struggling to pay, you should inform them of your situation. There are other solutions available:
Negotiating a payment plan with Jacobs Bailiffs is often a necessity for many debtors. When the full amount cannot be paid, reaching out to discuss a feasible payment plan is critical. As mentioned before, if you’re struggling to pay, you should inform them.
Make sure that you don’t agree to a plan that you cannot afford. This is because if you agree and default on payments, it might worsen your situation.
Also, note that it is crucial that you do this within 7 days of receiving the Notice of Enforcement. If you wait for longer, they might simply decide to seize your assets, or your fees might increase.
If you’re struggling to pay off your debt, you can consider taking up a Debt Management Plan (DMP). Some points to note on a DMP are as follows:
- What’s a DMP? It’s a plan where you agree to pay off debts in smaller, more manageable amounts.
- Suitable for Limited Budgets: Ideal if you can only afford small monthly payments.
- Handling Debt Over Time: Perfect for those who can clear their debt in the foreseeable future.
- Self-Management vs. Professional Help: You can set up a DMP on your own or with a licensed debt management company. However, professional services come at a cost.
- The Role of Debt Management Companies: They handle your regular payments, distributing them to creditors.
- FCA Authorisation is Key: Ensure the company is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This will help you to know that they are legitimate.
- Possible Future Requests from Creditors: Even with a DMP, creditors might ask for full payment later or take action if you fall behind. But what can you do to stay on track?
- Understanding Fees: If you choose a professional service, expect setup and handling fees.
- Switching to a Charity DMP: Already with a paid service? You can switch to a charity like StepChange.
If you believe a Debt Management Plan (DMP) is not suitable for you, there are other options you can consider. There are multiple debt solutions in the UK that you can take up. These will help you to write off your debt, but you need to be eligible for some.
Also, note that while the right debt solution will help you to write off the debt, choosing the wrong one can worsen your situation. So, we recommend you get some advice from a debt charity before you make a decision. Alternatively, feel free to fill out our online form, and our MoneyAdvisor team will guide you.
Some debt solutions available in the UK are as follows:
Alternatively, feel free to fill out our online form, and our MoneyAdvisor Team will guide you.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay Jacobs?
Not paying Jacobs Bailiffs can lead to serious consequences. Initially, they will send a Notice of Enforcement, giving you a window (Typically 7 days) to settle the debt or negotiate. Ignoring this notice can lead to increased fees and potential visits from bailiffs to collect payment.
Note that in order to send a Notice of Enforcement, they will add £75 to your existing debt. If they end up visiting your home, you will have to pay a fee of a minimum of £235 per visit.
If Jacobs comes to your home and seizes your assets, you still have little time in order to settle the debt before they sell the assets. But if you still don’t pay, they will sell your assets at an auction and recover the money. This will also add more fees to your debt for storing and selling the items.
Jacobs Bailiffs Contact Number
If you want to reach out to Jacobs Bailiffs, their contact information is as follows:
| Website: | https://www.jacobsenforcement.com/ |
| Phone number: | 0345 601 2692 |
| Operating hours: | Monday to Thursday 8 am – 8 pm Friday 8 am – 7.30 pm Saturday 8 am – 5 pm Sunday 8 am – 1 pm |
| Jacobs enforcement payment options: | https://www.jacobsenforcement.com/pay-now/ |
| Office address: | 6 Europa Boulevard Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH41 4PE |
Do Bailiffs Have to Accept a Payment Plan?
Jacobs Bailiffs are not obligated to accept a payment plan proposal. So, there is a chance that they might reject it and ask to either change the payment amounts or ask you to take up another solution. But note that if they accept the payment plan, you will have to sign a Control Goods Agreement.
This is where if you fail to make the payments of the instalments on time, they will have the right to seize your assets.
Missed a payment to Jacobs Bailiffs? Here’s your action plan:
- Immediate Contact: Reach out to Jacobs Bailiffs without delay. Explain your reasons for missing the payment.
- Possible Renegotiation: They might consider renegotiating your payment plan, but there’s no assurance.
- Risk of Asset Repossession: Be aware Jacobs Bailiffs can opt to repossess assets to settle the debt, adding extra charges.
- Controlled Goods Agreement: If you’ve signed one, Jacobs has the right to take listed items from your home.
Negotiating with Jacobs Bailiffs can be less daunting with these tips:
- Write a Letter: Send them a concise letter along with a budget sheet. Explain why you can’t pay the full amount.
- Instalment Proposals: Ask about weekly or monthly payment options.
- Inform Your Creditors: Sharing the same information with your creditors might expedite the acceptance of your offer.
- Recorded Delivery: Send your correspondence by recorded delivery for proof.
- Written Confirmation: If they accept your offer, ensure it is documented and signed.
Overall, note that navigating a broken arrangement with Jacobs Bailiffs requires careful communication and strategic negotiation.
Can Jacobs Bailiffs Force Entry?
Jacobs Bailiffs can force entry only if you’ve stopped payments under a Controlled Goods Agreement. Some points to keep in mind are as follows:
- Adhering to Regulations: They must follow the UK Bailiff’s Rights and Regulations. But if they don’t, you can report them.
- Entry Limitations: Generally, they can’t force entry. They’re allowed in through unlocked or open doors but can’t use methods like climbing through windows.
- Forced Entry in Specific Cases: If collecting goods under a Controlled Goods Agreement, they may force entry if you don’t permit access, typically using a locksmith. Remember, you bear the cost.
Knowing what Jacobs Bailiffs can and can’t take is crucial:
- Permissible Items: They can take items you own or co-own, like electrical goods, jewellery, and vehicles. But what are the boundaries?
- Access to Items: They can only seize items inside your home if you let them in.
- Off-Limits Items: They cannot take goods belonging to others, guide dogs or pets, items needed for work or study up to £1,350, Motability vehicles, or anything fixed to your home.
- Essentials: They cannot seize items that are considered as ‘basic domestic needs’ like tables, chairs, beds, kitchen appliances, phones, and medical equipment.
Understanding these details is crucial when facing potential entry or asset seizure by Jacobs Bailiffs.
Can you complain about bailiffs?
Yes, if bailiffs break any rules, you have the right to report them. In order to report them, find out who they are working for and directly report it to them. You can then send a copy of your complaint to the bailiffs.
If the creditor that the bailiffs are working for does not provide a response or look into your issue, you can report to a bailiff trade body. Note that you can do this only if you have already made a direct complaint to a trade body, only if the bailiff has not responded to your complaint even after 28 days.
You can make a complaint to the Financial Ombudsman if the bailiffs are recovering a debt on behalf of:
- Magistrates Court
- A local council
- Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- Energy, internet or phone providers
- HM Customs and Revenue (HMRC)
Debt Help and Support
Finding yourself in debt can be stressful, but support is available. Organisations like StepChange, Citizens Advice, and National Debtline offer guidance and assistance.
Knowing where to seek help and understanding the resources available to you is essential in navigating through financial difficulties.
Key Points
- Jacobs Bailiffs, also known as Jacobs Enforcement, is a UK-based debt collection agency.
- They enforce court orders and collect debts on behalf of companies and the courts, adhering strictly to UK laws and regulations.
- Their primary focus is collecting council tax debts and working with the HM Courts and Tribunals Service in Wales.
- If you’re unable to pay Jacobs Bailiffs, it’s crucial to contact them immediately and explain your situation.
- Jacobs Bailiffs may renegotiate your payment plan, but this is not guaranteed.
- In case of a missed payment, a Controlled Goods Agreement allows Jacobs Bailiffs to enter your home and seize goods listed in the agreement.
- Jacobs Bailiffs offers payment plans for debtors who can’t pay the full amount at once.
- Payment plan proposals need to be realistic and well-justified to be considered.
- In the case of a broken arrangement, proactive communication with Jacobs Bailiffs is essential to renegotiate terms.
- Debt Management Plans (DMPs) can help manage debts by paying off in smaller amounts over time.
- DMPs are suitable for individuals who can afford only small monthly payments.
- It’s important to choose a debt management company authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Send a clear and concise letter to Jacobs Bailiffs, explaining your financial situation and reasons for inability to pay in full.
- Propose feasible weekly or monthly instalment plans.
- Ensure any agreement reached with Jacobs Bailiffs is documented and signed.
- Jacobs Bailiffs cannot force entry unless recovering assets under a Controlled Goods Agreement.
- They can only seize certain types of property, adhering to specific legal restrictions.
- Understanding your rights regarding what Jacobs Bailiffs can and cannot take is crucial in protecting your assets.
