At West Country Bailiffs, we pride ourselves on delivering efficient, lawful, and professional enforcement services across the South West. One recent example of this commitment was a successful commercial lease forfeiture in Dorset on behalf of one of our key legal clients, Stephens Scown LLP.
This case demonstrated not only our rapid response capability but also the seamless collaboration between our in-house enforcement team and trusted contractors, enabling us to complete the forfeiture in Dorset within 48 hours of instruction. Below is an overview of how the operation unfolded and the factors that contributed to its success.
The Instruction
We received instruction from Stephens Scown LLP regarding a vacant possession requirement at a commercial premises in Dorset. The landlord was seeking to exercise their right of forfeiture in Dorset due to a lease breach. Speed was of the essence, as the client was under pressure to take back control of the property before further financial and legal complications arose.
Upon receipt of the instruction, our office immediately began coordinating logistics and legal compliance checks to ensure the forfeiture in Dorset could proceed without delay.
Preparing for Execution
In this case, the forfeiture in Dorset was to be carried out by peaceable re-entry, a legal method of repossessing a property by physically entering it.
With decades of experience behind us, we understand that even straightforward forfeitures require precision and preparation. That’s why we called upon our trusted network of specialists, including:
- Cai Williams, our Lead Bailiff for the operation, who took charge of the enforcement process on the ground. Cai’s experience, professionalism, and clear communication were key to the success of this job.
- Seth from The Property Locksmith, our go-to contractor for all lock changes. Seth responded promptly to the callout and arrived on-site equipped with all the necessary tools to secure the premises post-entry.
Together with our internal coordination team, Cai and Seth worked in harmony to ensure that every legal and safety protocol was followed, and that the landlord’s interests were fully protected.
On-Site Execution
Within 48 hours of the initial instruction, our team was on-site to complete the forfeiture in Dorset. The premises were assessed and re-entry was achieved without confrontation. The tenants were not present at the time of forfeiture, which allowed for a smooth, uneventful operation.
Once entry was made, Seth changed the locks and issued new keys to the landlord’s representatives. Clear forfeiture notices were placed on the entrance in accordance with legal requirements, and the premises were secured against re-entry.
Cai completed a full photographic and written report, documenting the condition of the property and confirming that all actions taken were compliant with current enforcement regulations.
Why This Job Matters
This case is a perfect example of why West Country Bailiffs stands out in the industry. Our ability to act swiftly, professionally, and in full compliance with the law is no accident—it’s the result of meticulous planning, expert personnel, and robust partnerships.
Clients such as Stephens Scown LLP know they can rely on us not only to get the job done, but to do so in a manner that is respectful, transparent, and efficient. The trust placed in us by legal firms, property managers, and landlords across the South West is something we value deeply.
A Word on Collaboration
Much of our success on this and similar cases comes down to the strength of our working relationships. Professionals like Seth at The Property Locksmith and our own Cai Williams make up the backbone of our operational team. These partnerships allow us to mobilise quickly and resolve complex situations without delay.
We’re proud to say that this recent forfeiture in Dorset is just one of many successful outcomes we’ve delivered for Stephens Scown LLP and other commercial property clients throughout the region.
Need Assistance?
If you’re a landlord, managing agent, or legal representative in need of fast and professional enforcement services, we’re here to help. Whether it’s forfeiture, trespasser removal, CRAR, or site security, West Country Bailiffs has the experience, licensing, and partnerships to protect your property interests.
Get in touch today to learn more about how we can assist you across the South West including Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset and beyond.
