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HomeControlled Goods Agreements

Civil enforcement information

Controlled Goods Agreements

Taking control is not the same as immediate removal or transfer of ownership. Read the inventory and payment terms carefully before signing.

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What the agreement should clarify

  1. The enforcement power and debt being enforced.
  2. The goods listed and enough detail to identify them.
  3. The payment or repayment terms.
  4. The consequences of default.
  5. Restrictions on sale, removal, disposal or interference with the controlled goods.
  6. The circumstances in which re-entry or removal may be attempted.

Signing and refusal

Do not assume that signing waives every objection or that refusing to sign prevents goods from being taken into control. The legal effect depends on how control was taken, the documents, ownership and the applicable regulations.

If the agreement is disputed

Keep the agreement, inventory, payment record and evidence of ownership or exemption. Raise the issue promptly with the enforcement company and creditor. A third-party or exempt-goods claim may fall within CPR Part 85. A court application or other remedy may be required, and filing an application does not automatically create a stay.

Sources

  1. Schedule 12, Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007
  2. Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013
  3. Civil Procedure Rules Part 85

Review status

Legal content reviewed against the sources identified on this page on 27 July 2026. The next review is due on 27 July 2028.