Paying to secure release and later seeking recovery

Pay and reclaim is not a single statutory procedure and does not guarantee repayment, damages or legal costs. Payment under protest may sometimes be commercially necessary to secure release.

Obtain the authority, statement and fee breakdown; reserve the disputed position in writing and keep the receipt, notices, photographs and communications.

Recovery requires a recognised cause of action or statutory procedure, the correct parties, proof of loss and compliance with deadlines. An unsuccessful claim may expose the claimant to costs.

Sources and scope

This site concerns England and Wales. Principal sources include Schedule 12 to the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007, the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013, the Taking Control of Goods (Fees) Regulations 2014, CPR Part 84 and the GOV.UK bailiff guide.

This article or page was last checked on . The next check will be on . Law and procedure can change; check the current official position before acting.