Late or unpaid invoices can be one of the most damaging challenges for any business. Outstanding debts restrict cash flow, create uncertainty, and take valuable time away from running and growing your company. Chasing overdue payments yourself can be stressful — and sometimes impossible when customers continually make promises they don’t keep.
At West Country Bailiffs, we provide a professional, results-driven commercial debt recovery service designed to get your invoices paid quickly, while protecting your relationships wherever possible. Based in the West Country and supporting businesses across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset, and beyond (including national coverage when required), we’re the trusted partner for firms who want their debts recovered efficiently and compliantly using commercial debt recovery services.
How Our Commercial Debt Recovery Service Works
We believe in a firm but fair approach. Our team begins with targeted communication — letters, emails, and phone calls — aimed at encouraging payment and opening constructive dialogue.
If the debtor ignores these communications, we can escalate by sending one of our experienced certificated bailiffs to meet them face to face. A visit from a professional enforcement agent demonstrates that you are serious about recovering the money you are owed, often resulting in a swift resolution.
Unlike traditional collection agencies, we combine strong negotiation skills with on-the-ground enforcement expertise, ensuring that every step is professional, ethical, and focused on getting results.
Adding Interest and Fees
Many businesses don’t realise they can claim more than just the principal debt. Under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998, you are entitled to:
- Statutory interest (currently 8% above the Bank of England base rate).
- Fixed-sum compensation (ranging from £40 to £100, depending on the size of the debt).
- Reasonable recovery costs in certain circumstances.
By including these amounts, you not only recover the original sum but also the costs of being kept out of your money.
Case Study: £60,000 Recovered on a Two-Year-Old Debt Using Our Commercial Debt Recovery Service
Last week, we achieved an excellent result for one of our clients, recovering a £60,000 commercial debt that had been outstanding for over two years under our commercial debt recovery service.
The client had tried repeatedly to collect the balance themselves but had met with delays and empty promises. After instructing us, our call-centre team began persistent, professional contact with the debtor. When this didn’t produce payment, we escalated matters by dispatching one of our experienced bailiffs to the debtor’s premises.
Thanks to the authority and professionalism of our agent, we secured full payment — including interest and recovery costs — within days. This outcome not only cleared the outstanding account but also saved our client significant time and stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How quickly can you act on an unpaid invoice?
A: We can start work within 24 hours of receiving your instruction, sending letters and making calls straight away.
Q: Do I need a court judgment first?
A: Not always. Many debts can be recovered on a pre-legal basis, saving you time and legal fees.
Q: What if the debtor still refuses to pay?
A: If appropriate, we’ll send one of our certificated bailiffs to discuss the debt face to face. Their presence often encourages settlement or a payment plan.
Q: Can you recover older debts through your commercial debt recovery service?
A: Yes — as long as the debt is within the legal limitation period, we can act, even if it’s been outstanding for years.
Q: Will my customer relationship be damaged?
A: We take a professional, respectful approach. Our goal is to recover your money without unnecessary conflict.
Q: Where do you operate?
A: We’re based in Torquay, with local agents covering the entire West Country and national support if required.
Why Choose West Country Bailiffs Commercial Debt Recovery Service
- Specialist expertise in commercial debt recovery services.
- Experienced bailiffs who can attend in person when required.
- Transparent, no-collection-no-fee structure — you only pay when we succeed.
- Fast, effective results that save you time and protect your cash flow.
Get Started Today
If overdue invoices are holding your business back, let West Country Bailiffs take the pressure off. Our qualified team combines proven communication strategies with the authority of certificated bailiffs to deliver quick, professional results.
📞 Contact us today to discuss your case, or visit our Commercial Debt Recovery page for more information.
