Enforcement Agent Certificate

A certificate issued by a County Court judge authorising an individual to act as an enforcement agent and take control of goods. Without a valid certificate, a person cannot lawfully exercise enforcement powers under Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007.

In practice

Applicants must satisfy the judge that they are a fit and proper person to hold a certificate. Certificates are issued for a fixed period (typically two years) and can be revoked if the holder's conduct falls below the required standard. Debtors have the right to ask an enforcement agent to show their certificate and should verify that it is current. Enforcement by an uncertificated person is unlawful and may give the debtor grounds for a complaint or civil claim.