What if a debt collector comes to my house?

Firstly, put your door on the chain, make sure your back door is locked and the windows are closed. Speak to the debt collector through an open but secured window or via the door on a chain. Be polite and respectful, ask to see identification, but under NO circumstances let them in.

If a debt collector can 'gain peaceful entry', they are not breaking and entering, so give them no opportunity to lawfully enter your property and take items of yours against the debt. To reiterate this, they do not have the legal right to enter your property, unless there is a way for them to do so without breaking in.

Bailiffs may enter your home using reasonable force if you have unpaid criminal fines. Do not let them into your house and remember, they don't all come looking like a bulldog that swallowed a wasp! They may look just like you and me.

If you wish to negotiate with a bailiff or debt collector, it's possible to do so with many of them.You can agree to pay them money by a certain date, but you will need to undertake a walking possession agreement, which means they will list the items that they will take if you don't keep up your end of the bargain.

This route might give you some breathing space, but it allows the collector to break into your property if you do not stick to the terms of your agreement. If you are having problems with a debt collector or bailiff, speak to a qualified debt specialist, who may be able to negotiate on your behalf with the debt recovery company.