Property reposession

[elizabethd]

I live in a block of flats and one of my neighbours has defaulted on their mortgage. Last night an officer from the County Court rang our doorbell to gain access to the building. He told me that he was simply delivering some papers to my neighbour's flat but that someone from the County Court would be returning on 9th January to reposess the flat. The flat in question is empty at the moment and the County Court officer asked if we would be available on 9th January to grant them access to the building. My husband and I will both be at work on that day so will not be there. I am very reluctant to get involved as this does not really concern us. However I am worried about what might happen if we are not there to let them in. Would they be able to force entry to the block and so leave the building unsecure? There have been a number of burgularies recently in the immediate area so security is a concern. I would be grateful if anyone could give me some advice. Thankfully I have never had anything to do with the County Courts or reposession orders so do not know what to expect.

[Miss Zippy]

It sounds like you were visited by a Court bailiff. Firstly, you are under no obligation to let them into the property so you have no need to get involved if this makes you feel uncomfortable (I think it is wise you do not get involved anyway as you state). Secondly, bailiffs are only permitted by law to enter property �peacefully�. This means either by being invited into the property or by entering through an unlocked door or open window. They are not permitted to forcefully enter property (e.g. breaking down doors or smashing through windows), contrary to what many people seem to believe.

[Loosehead]

Zippy is correct, if you are worried, refer the issue to your freeholder or representative who looks after the block.

[funnywebsite]

Yes, don't get involved and don't take off off to let them in.