Taking Control of Goods

The statutory procedure by which an enforcement agent seizes a debtor's goods to satisfy a judgement debt or other liability. The procedure is governed by Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007 and the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013, which replaced the previous law of distress and execution.

In practice

The process follows a defined sequence: notice of enforcement, attendance at the debtor's premises during permitted hours (6am to 9pm), identification and valuation of goods, and either a controlled goods agreement or removal. Exempt goods (basic domestic items, tools of the trade up to £1,350, items needed by a disabled person) cannot be taken. The enforcement agent must hold a valid certificate issued by a County Court judge.