Attending Bailiffs Vehicle Compound

Bailiffs are liable if your vehicle gets damaged after removing it. But, you must report the damage right after picking it up from their compound. If you delay, you might struggle to claim because the damage could be blamed on you.

The bailiffs likely recorded your vehicle's condition when they took it. However, it's always wise to be prepared by documenting and recording its condition when you collect it and before driving it away.

Bailiffs often have ties with vehicle compound operators and might inflate storage fees.

If the bailiff takes your vehicle to a location far from where he removed it, you have the right to request the bailiff to bring it closer. Alternatively, you can reclaim the transportation costs under Regulation 19 of the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013.

Tips for Attending the Vehicle Compound:

Use a credit card for easier chargebacks

Bring a witness, pen, paper, camera phone, and a selfie stick

Have your witness note down conversations

Ask for a written breakdown of charges

Don't sign documents waiving your rights

Inspecting your vehicle and record its condition using your phone camera and make a numbered list of damage and missing items:

Make a time-stamped video using your phone as you inspect your vehicle. Clearly, say aloud on the video each damaged item and its location on the vehicle.

This video will serve as vital evidence to support your claim when it is played back to the judge.

Start with the front of the car, including the number plate

Then, focus on the windscreen

Move around to show both sides of the bodywork

Record the paintwork, roof, wheel arches, bumpers, bonnet, all doors, and tailgate, noting any lock damage. Slowly sweep over the roof, as lifting equipment often damages it

Open the boot, record the spare wheel, and check for missing items

Record the engine bay, battery, fluid levels, engine number, and unique markings. Ensure it's the original engine

Document the contents of the glovebox and any lock damage

Checking for fluids under the vehicle is essential, as wheel brackets can cause steering issues. This check can help you identify potential problems from the vehicle under the bailiff's control

Record all road wheels for damage, especially hubs, alloy wheels, and tyre walls, which may be damaged by lifting brackets

Inspect tyres for damage from dragging with the handbrake on

Note the mileage and fuel level

Record the entire under-body, as forklifts can cause damage

Test the steering lock

Make a note of any missing items inside or outside the car

Before Driving Away:

If there is obvious damage, tell the compound staff straight away and make a note who you told and the time and any reply.

Make sure the brakes work well. Sometimes, the chains from wheel clamps can catch on the brake pipes

Also, make sure the power steering works right. If it feels stiff, the hydraulics might get damaged from moving the car without power to the steering pump

Check that the gearbox or transmission works appropriately, including reverse

Notify compound staff of all noticeable damage and missing items from the vehicle.

If the vehicle isn't safe, call for recovery.

It's essential to notify the council, creditor, and the bailiff company about the damage to your vehicle and the list of missing items. This notification should be done promptly, as delayed notice may result in your claim being refused. A detailed list of the damage and missing items can help strengthen your claim.

Your claim for damages can include:

Renting a car: You'll pay either a rate similar to what you'd pay for your car or a daily fee for not having access to your vehicle

Taking taxis: Get a receipt from any taxi company

Using public transport: Save all your receipts and payments

Getting a flatbed transporter: It might be risky to drive your vehicle, so consider using a transporter

Safety check: If you're unsure about the condition of your vehicle after the bailiff took it, it's wise to check it

Loss of use for business: If your car is essential, consider the loss of income during its absence

Car tax and DVLA fees: Recover the wasted tax and any fees owed while the bailiff had your vehicle

Insurance changes: Cover any expenses for adjusting or cancelling your insurance

Servicing and cleaning: Pay for any necessary maintenance or cleaning to get your car back in shape

Repairs: Fix any damage or changes made to your vehicle while it was with the bailiff

Wrongful fees and VAT: Reclaim any unlawfully taken money, including VAT on storage fees

If your vehicle is at a bailiff pound and you want to reclaim it or recover it under an injunction. In that case, I offer a low-cost telephone consultation where I can prepare your notice of damage and a numbered list of missing items to be sent to the creditor and the bailiff company -even while you are still at the vehicle pound to secure the integrity of your claim.

Template: Notification to Bailiffs and the Council: Give a comprehensive list detailing the damages and missing items from the vehicle while it was under the control of the bailiffs.