Dukes Bailiffs Limited is a family-run company which provides a range of debt recovery services. This includes collecting unpaid invoices, commercial rent arrears and penalty charge notices. They are based in the United Kingdom and are able to work nationwide. However, their customer base is primarily local authorities. They also provide services for other organisations.
Dukes is a well-known debt collection agency in the UK. They specialise in recovering unpaid debts for public and private companies. Their team works across the country to assist businesses recover their unpaid invoices. They also help with evictions and County Court Judgments. The agency is licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority, which is responsible for the regulation of the debt collection industry. They also have an independent compliance department.
Typically, Dukes Bailiffs visit properties between the hours of 6am and 9pm, though they can’t attend on Sundays or holidays. The costs involved vary depending on the type of action taken. Generally, you’ll pay a disbursement fee. This covers the costs of hiring locksmiths and storing your goods after they’ve been removed. This is because the items you have may be valuable or irreplaceable. The fee can only be charged once for each stage.
If your debts are being collected by Dukes Bailiffs, you might feel intimidated. They’re likely to be incentivised to obtain payment as soon as possible, and they will do whatever it takes to get it. This can include contacting you or your family members. They can even threaten bankruptcy or court action.
If you are being harassed by Dukes, it’s important to seek advice from an experienced professional. You can also report the company to the OFT. The Financial Ombudsman Service can also help you with debt problems. In fact, they’ve received a rise in complaints this year from 830 to 2,006!
Dukes can send you a letter stating that your property has been seized. The letter will provide you with the total debt that is owed and will also detail the deadline for you to pay. If you do not make a payment within the specified time, they can cancel the repayment plan. They might even add extra fees.
It’s also vital to remember that bailiffs can come back several times during the enforcement process. If you don’t act before they come to visit, you might be in danger of losing more valuable assets.
The Taking Control of Goods (Fees) Regulations outline the fees that can be charged for bailiff actions. You’ll have to pay a compliance fee at the beginning of the process. During the compliance phase, you won’t be able to contact the bailiff. This is because the company is required to issue a Notice of Enforcement. You must also get 7 clear days’ notice before they can take further action.
If you’re not happy with the way your debt has been handled, you can file a complaint with Dukes. If you do, they’ll investigate your case. They may be willing to take a partial payment to close off your debt. You can then discuss a repayment plan with them.