Bailiff Risk Assessment Form (EX97A): Ensuring Safe and Legal Enforcement
The enforcement of court orders by bailiffs (also known as enforcement agents) requires careful planning to ensure safety for all parties involved. A Bailiff Risk Assessment Form (EX97A) is a crucial document that helps assess potential risks when bailiffs attend a property to enforce a warrant or court order.
This article explains what a Bailiff Risk Assessment Form is, why it is important, and how to complete it.
What Is a Bailiff Risk Assessment Form?
The Bailiff Risk Assessment Form (EX97A) is used in the UK to inform enforcement officers about any potential dangers they may face when attending a property. The form is typically completed by claimants (such as landlords, creditors, or local authorities) to ensure the bailiff is aware of risks before visiting a property.
The form helps assess:
- Risk of violence or aggression – If the occupant has a history of threats or confrontations.
- Environmental hazards – Dangerous conditions at the property, such as structural damage.
- Health risks – If the property has issues like contagious diseases or hazardous materials.
- Obstructions to access – Locked gates, aggressive animals, or other barriers.
Why Is a Bailiff Risk Assessment Form Important?
✅ Protects Bailiffs & Occupants – Helps prevent conflicts or dangerous situations.
✅ Ensures Legal Compliance – Required under health and safety laws to ensure safe enforcement.
✅ Prevents Delays & Miscommunication – Gives bailiffs a clear understanding of potential risks in advance.
✅ Supports Proper Planning – Allows enforcement officers to take necessary precautions or request police assistance if needed.
Who Needs to Complete the Bailiff Risk Assessment Form?
The form is typically completed by:
- Landlords or letting agents applying for eviction orders.
- Local authorities enforcing unpaid council tax or parking fines.
- Creditors seeking debt collection via High Court enforcement.
- Court representatives handling possession orders or business debt recovery.
What Information Is Included in the Bailiff Risk Assessment Form (EX97A)?
The form requires details on:
1. Property & Case Details
- Address of the property.
- Name of the person being enforced against.
- Type of enforcement action (e.g., eviction, debt recovery, asset seizure).
2. Known Risks at the Property
- History of violence or aggression (previous threats or police involvement).
- Presence of weapons or dangerous items.
- Aggressive dogs or animals on the premises.
- Potential health risks (contagious diseases, infestations, unsafe conditions).
- Environmental hazards (unstable structures, blocked entry points).
3. Additional Information
- Specific instructions for safe access to the property.
- Recommended precautions (e.g., requiring police escort).
How to Complete and Submit the Bailiff Risk Assessment Form
1️⃣ Download the form – The official EX97A Bailiff Risk Assessment Form can be found on the UK Government website:
2️⃣ Fill in all required details – Provide accurate and complete information to ensure the bailiff can assess potential risks.
3️⃣ Submit the form to the court – The completed form should be sent along with any relevant enforcement applications.
What Happens After Submission?
- The enforcement agency will review the risk assessment before scheduling the bailiff visit.
- If serious risks are identified, bailiffs may request police assistance or take additional precautions.
- In some cases, enforcement may be postponed until safety concerns are resolved.
How Fraser Bond Can Help
At Fraser Bond, we provide expert advice on property enforcement, eviction processes, and legal compliance for landlords, property owners, and creditors. If you need assistance with bailiff enforcement or risk assessment procedures, our team can guide you through the process.
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