At West Country Bailiffs, we specialise in Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR), helping landlords recover unpaid rent quickly and lawfully. When tenants fall behind, it can create serious financial strain for property owners. Our certificated enforcement agents provide a fast, professional, and effective solution.
Our commitment goes beyond just recovery; we focus on maintaining the landlord-tenant relationship wherever possible. This approach helps to foster goodwill and potentially open the door for future business engagements.
For instance, in a recent case, our agents were able to negotiate a settlement that allowed a tenant to pay off their arrears in manageable installments while preserving their business operations, showcasing our flexibility and understanding of tenant circumstances.
Recently, our team completed six CRAR enforcement cases across Exeter, Oxford, and Gloucester in just two days. Covering hundreds of miles, our bailiffs secured immediate payments and structured repayment agreements—delivering excellent results for our client.
What is Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR)?
The legal framework surrounding CRAR is designed to protect both landlords and tenants, emphasising the importance of following due process and maintaining fairness throughout the recovery process.
Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) is more than just a collection method; it represents a strategic approach to managing rental agreements. Under schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007, landlords can reclaim arrears efficiently, preserving their cash flow and ensuring business sustainability.
Key points about CRAR:
- It applies to commercial properties only (not residential).
- Only rent, VAT and interest can be recovered (not service charges or insurance).
- Enforcement agents can take control of goods to secure the debt.
- The process is tightly regulated to ensure compliance.
How We Recovered Commercial Rent Arrears Across Three Cities
During our recent instruction, our certificated bailiffs attended six commercial premises on behalf of a key landlord client. Here’s how the enforcement unfolded on the back of non payment on expiry of the Notice of Enforcement (NOE):
- Initial Attendance – Our agents attended each property, explained the enforcement action, and sought immediate payment of arrears.
- Assessment of Circumstances – Where tenants were unable to clear the full balance, our team explored options while protecting the landlord’s interests.
- Taking Control of Goods – Goods were noted and could have been removed if necessary, providing leverage to secure payments.
- Negotiation & Resolution – Through professional negotiation and building rapport, we secured positive results in every case.
Results Achieved for the Client
The outcomes of our operations illustrate the significant advantages of employing Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) services. With our structured approach, we achieve impressive results, securing payments while adhering to legal requirements.
In some cases, tenants may face temporary financial difficulties due to unforeseen circumstances, such as economic downturns or personal crises. Our agents are trained to identify these situations and work collaboratively towards a solution.
- 3 cases resulted in payment in full on site.
- 3 cases saw tenants pay 50% of the balance upfront, with structured repayment arrangements agreed (and approved by the client) for the remainder.
By offering tailored repayment plans that fit the tenant’s capabilities, we not only recover debts but also help tenants stabilize their businesses, which is beneficial for both parties in the long run.
This meant the client received a substantial proportion of arrears immediately, with the remainder secured under enforceable agreements.
Why Use Professional Bailiffs for CRAR Enforcement?
Commercial rent arrears Recovery (CRAR) can be challenging. Tenants may dispute the arrears, delay payment, or become uncooperative. That’s why using professional enforcement agents is essential.
At West Country Bailiffs, our team:
- Acts quickly to protect landlords’ interests.
- De-escalates tense situations with professionalism and tact.
- Negotiates realistic payment solutions without compromising compliance.
- Ensures every step follows CRAR regulations.
- Provides clear reporting to landlords at every stage.
For example, in one case, our enforcement agents faced initial resistance from a tenant. However, through effective negotiation and demonstrating the legal implications of non-compliance, we were able to facilitate a resolution swiftly.
Our recent success across Exeter, Oxford, and Gloucester demonstrates the difference that skilled, local bailiffs can make.
Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) in Exeter, Oxford, Gloucester and Beyond
For landlords facing challenges with unpaid rent, Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) serves as a critical tool. Our extensive network and prompt response times throughout the South West and beyond position us as leaders in this sector.
Our recent results show how effective CRAR enforcement can be: immediate payments, structured arrangements, and peace of mind for landlords.
📞 To discuss Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery in Exeter, Oxford, Gloucester, or anywhere in the South West or UK, contact West Country Bailiffs today on 01803 895441 or email enforcement@westcountrybailiffs.co.uk.
This local insight is particularly valuable in regions like Exeter, Oxford, and Gloucester, where our agents have established relationships that can ease the recovery process.
We invite landlords to approach us proactively rather than reactively. The earlier we can engage in the CRAR process, the more options we can explore to recover the debt while minimising disruption to tenants’ businesses.
Ultimately, we are here to support landlords by ensuring that their financial interests are safeguarded while also advocating for fair treatment of tenants, which can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.
📞 For more information about how Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) can work for you, or to schedule a consultation, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated team at West Country Bailiffs. Your peace of mind and financial stability are our top priorities.
