Can bailiffs ambush me by turning up unannounced?

Bailiffs must give a statutory notice of enforcement,^[1] at least seven clear days before taking control of goods.^[2]

That means bailiffs cannot just turn up and ambush you.

If bailiffs attend an address that does not match the address on the enforcement power, for example, the writ of control, or a liability order, then that is evidence the bailiff did not give a notice before attending.^[3]

If the bailiff takes control of goods without giving a notice of enforcement, the debtor may apply to the court and order the goods or money to be returned.^[4]

The debtor makes an application to the court,^[5][6]

If money was taken, then the card holder can make a chargeback.^[7]

^{[1] Paragraph 7.1 of Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007

[2] Regulation 6(1) of the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013

[3] Section 7 of the Interpretation Act 1978

[4] Paragraph 66(5) of Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007

[5] Civil Procedure Rule 84.13

[6] Civil Procedure Rule 23

[7] See Reclaim fraudulent bailiff demands with chargeback}