Explanatory note

(This note is not part of the Rules)

These Rules, which regulate the issue of certificates to bailiffs levying distress for rent and the fees, charges and expenses recoverable, replace the Distress for Rent Rules 1983. The principal changes made are:—

(a)

the holder of a general certificate may, upon its expiry, apply for its renewal rather than for a fresh certificate (rule 4(3));

(b)

an applicant for a general certificate must provide two references (rule 4(4)(a));

(c)

an applicant for a general certificate must attend in person at the hearing of the application (rule 5(2));

(d)

the security in the case of a general certificate is increased to £10,000 (rule 6(1));

(e)

a procedure for complaints about bailiffs' conduct is introduced (rule 8);

(f)

the fees, charges and expenses recoverable are increased (Appendix 1).