The Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013 set out the detailed procedures for seizing and selling goods to enforce the payment of debts under Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007. They replace the old “distress” procedures with a modern statutory code, covering notices, exemptions, entry rules, controlled goods agreements, sale of goods, securities, abandonment, and the commercial rent arrears recovery (CRAR) regime. The Regulations standardise enforcement practice, protect debtors and vulnerable persons, and clarify the rights and duties of enforcement agents.
The Regulations provide a complete framework for how enforcement agents may take control of goods, what goods are exempt, the notice and entry rules, and how sales or abandonment must be handled. They also define the process for recovering commercial rent arrears, including rights of landlords and sub-tenants. By replacing outdated distress law, they establish clear standards that support fairness, transparency, and accountability in debt enforcement.
Benefits of compliance:
