Can bailiffs enter your house when you are not there?


Yes

If you leave a door unlocked, or leave a key in the lock, the bailiff may enter by turning the key.[1]

A bailiff cannot put his hand in a hole (e.g. a cat flap or letterbox) in order to pull back a bar or fastening to open the door or window because this amounts to burglary and trespass.[1]

The use of a landlord's key to gain entry is unlawful.[2]

If you leave the key outside, or under the doormat, which is found, but is not in the lock, entry would be unlawful.[3]

Improper use of keys to gain entry is illegal.[4]

Make sure your home is secure, but in certain circumstances, bailiffs may enter using reasonable force.[5]



[1] Ryan v Shilcock [1851] 7 Exch 72
[2] Miller v Curry [1893]
[3] Welch v Krakovsky [1919]
[4] Alford v Thrupp [1906] 67 EG 226
[5] See Bailiffs and entering using reasonable force.