Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Yes, I listed both account numbers. Unfortunately, the website only gives you the total amount, and I don't think I will get a reply to my email in a hurry.

[ploddertom]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

In that case you will have to wait & see what they say. There is an alternative as the Council usually have the facility to access your account on their systems (Bailiffs) so you could ask them.

[bluebottle]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

OK, I have an update to this now.

I called the council today and they confirmed verbally (after lots of pressing) that my balance with them is zero, and that there are no outstanding liability orders in my name. They have put this in writing, and I am awaiting the letter.

I logged into the B&S website again and sure enough it now says I only owe them £42.50 (I still think this is b*llocks as they've only been once, but I would pay it just to get rid of them.)

However, my main concern is now the following:

B&S claim that I owe them £296.00 from last time we fell into arrears (last year.) At that time, they levied my car, which unfortunately was parked on the drive, before I could pay the council the full amount I owed them. After that, it all went quiet. My worry now is that because they previously levied my car, could they return at any time and just take it?

I have emailed them twice using one of the templates to demand a breakdown of their fees, so until I get this I don't want to pay them a penny - but I'm also constantly worrying about the car.

I was under the impression they can't levy for fees only, but the levy was on the car before I paid the council. Also, I am aware that bailiff fees are supposed to be paid first, but surely if the council say my liability orders are settled then that's that?

On what date did they levy on the car? If it has been some time since they levied and have not attempted to remove, then it could be argued they have abandoned the levy and have no leverage.

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

I can't be 100% sure on the exact date, but I'm almost certain it was the first week in March.

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

I have also just read that they need me to sign something in order to levy my car? I never signed anything.

[labman]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

I have also just read that they need me to sign something in order to levy my car? I never signed anything.

Where did you read this?

You wouldn't have to sign anything - that is the appeal to bailiffs of levying vehicles, they don't have to gain peaceful entry and they can do it while you're abroad on holiday if necessary. :beagle:

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Here: WEBSITE LINK EDITED OUT

Although I now realise it means signed by the bailiff, not by the debtor.

What about the period of time? It's been almost 7 months since they levied the car.

[labman]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Hi,

I've edited out the link (I know you were only answering my question) as there are some sites which we really do not recommend. The linked site fell into this category.

Thanks for the answer though!

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Ah, no problem - Apologies.

I've gleaned a few bits of info from that site, so would you mind telling me why to avoid?

Also, any more help regarding the levy of the car would be appreciated. Thanks.

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

I have literally just this minute received an emailed reply from B&S.

It contains the following:



Does this clarify matters in anybody's favour?

[labman]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

The Redemption Fee is, I believe, a Head H fee, so would not be payable as nothing was redeemed from the bailiff.

On 01/03 they charged £18 - presumably for the levy on your car you said took place?

I see no justification for them charging the abortive van/removal fee of £180 unless they were going to remove your car, and you said you'd pay, so they sent the van on its way again.

So overcharging IMO of £198 for last year.

This years confirms you owe the £42.50 we have mentioned several times.

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Thanks again Labman, you're a star.

Yes, I totally accept we owe £42.50 for this year. How should I put it to the bailiffs that they have overcharged for last year? Is there a particular wording I should use?

[bluebottle]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Here: WEBSITE LINK EDITED OUT

Although I now realise it means signed by the bailiff, not by the debtor.

What about the period of time? It's been almost 7 months since they levied the car.

Abandoned levy.

[ploddertom]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Abandoned levy.

I'd go with that. Levy made in March, next visit 5 months later.

[7CS]

Re: Problem with unfair/made-up bailiff fees.

Well that's one thing sorted. Now to challenge the fees.

Any assistance appreciated!