When a company receives a Writ of Control or a Warrant of Control, they enable Enforcement Officers to legally enter a property and take goods on behalf of the creditor. If your company receives one, you should act quickly and explore the options available to alleviate the company’s debts.

What is a warrant of control?

A Warrant of Control authorises an enforcement agent to go to the debtor’s address to collect any money owed, or, alternatively, to remove goods from the address to sell at auction. Enforcement agents are limited to the kinds of goods which they can remove. They are not permitted to remove any goods which are essential for the debtor to carry out their trade, or any items which would prevent them from enjoying a basic standard of living.

What’s a High Court Writ of Control?

A High Court Writ is a formal order written by the High Court on behalf of creditors. It requests that they receive the debts they’re owed, and the writ allows the removal and potential sale of the debtors’ goods if the debt is not repaid.

What’s the difference?

The key difference between a Writ of Control and a Warrant of Control is that creditors seeking a debt worth over £5,000 must apply to the High Court for a Writ of Control. Any debts below £5,000 will be applied for through the County Court, who grant Warrants of Control. Essentially a High Court Enforcement Officer will only perform duties when executing a Writ of Control, whereas a County Court Officer would act on a Warrant of Control.

Has your company received one?

If your company has received either a Warrant or Writ of Control from Enforcement Officers, it effectively means that after following the correct process, bailiffs can legally enter the property and take assets to pay the debts. At this point, there are still options available.

Alternatively, there is the option to complete an N245 application which can effectively suspend the Warrant of Control. Although this is a difficult process to complete, and the Courts are unlikely to accept one unless there is a very good reason.

• Pay off the whole debt. Although, it’s important to remember that at this point, Enforcement Officers will add their charges to your company’s debts.
• If you cannot pay off the whole debt, try to arrange a repayment plan. Include as much detail as possible and ensure you comply to pay the agreed sums on time. There are formal repayment plans available, such as a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), but this must be agreed to by your creditors.
• If an arrangement cannot be made, a ‘’stay of execution’’ can be applied for. It is a last option, though, as it is hard to justify being granted one. If you are granted, the writ will be paused so you can sort out your company’s matters – however, this comes with an additional charge.

In summary

A Warrant of Control and a Writ of Control are part of a process that creditors follow, which enables Enforcement Officers to collect unpaid debts on their behalf. Any debts in excess of £5,000 must be applied to through the High Court, which enables creditors to get a Writ of Control. A Warrant of Control is applied through the County Court, but these are for debts under £5,000.

How we can help

If you’re worried your company could receive a visit from Enforcement Officers with either a Writ of Control or a Warrant of Control, or you already have done, then it’s vital to act quickly. Having a visit from Enforcement Officers can be an intimidating experience, so knowing your rights and the options available will put your company in the best position moving forward.

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