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Notice of Enforcement: Getting 28 Days From the Bailiffs
A Notice of Enforcement is the letter that tells you bailiffs (enforcement agents) are coming. Since 1 May 2026 it must give you at least 14 clear days before they can take control of your goods. If a free debt advice provider contacts them for you before the 14 days end, you get at least 28 clear days. Use the time to get advice and agree a payment plan.
At A Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
The Rules
Minimum Notice
At least 14 clear days before an enforcement agent can take control of goods, for enforcement from 1 May 2026. source
The 28 Day Extension
If a debt advice provider submits a request for you before the notice period runs out, the minimum becomes 28 clear days. It does not apply to some business debts, such as VAT-registered businesses. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- 14 daysAct before this runs outGet a debt adviser to ask for 28 days
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 5
Read the notice and note the date it was sent.
Step 2 of 5
Contact a free debt adviser the same day.
Step 3 of 5
Ask them to request the 28 day extension.
Step 4 of 5
Work out what you can afford and offer a plan.
Step 5 of 5
Check if Breathing Space could pause enforcement.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
Free Debt Advice (MoneyHelper)
Find free, confidential debt advice near you or online.
Citizens Advice or National Debtline
Free debt advice. They can also ask bailiffs for more time on your behalf.
Good to Know
Small things that make your complaint stronger.
These rules are for England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different debt and enforcement rules.
Want Help?
If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 15 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.
Sources and official links
- legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2026/366/made Checked 15 October 2026
- moneyhelper.org.uk/en/money-troubles/dealing-with-debt/options-for-clearing-your-debts-england-and-wales Checked 8 October 2026