What you’ll learn in this article

• How seizure of movable assets works and when it occurs

• When a bailiff may enter your home

• What items may and may not be taken

• How to object if the items are not yours

• What risks you face if you ignore the situation

How seizure of movable assets works

If you owe money and the creditor has an enforcement title (e.g. a court decision), they can request enforcement. One method is seizure of movable property. The bailiff may then visit a place where your belongings are likely kept.

But this doesn’t mean free access! The bailiff must:

• deliver the decision on enforcement to you,

• act only within legal limits,

• respect that some items are protected by law.

What a bailiff can and cannot seize

They may seize for example:

• electronics, jewelry, valuables

• a car, if you’re the registered owner

• furniture or items of significant value

They may not seize:

• basic household equipment (e.g. bed, refrigerator, stove)

• personal items necessary for life (e.g. wheelchair, medication)

• belongings of minor children

• items that don’t belong to you (although you’ll have to prove it)

Common mistakes by debtors

• Failing to prove ownership – items in the flat are presumed to belong to the debtor

• Allowing repeated visits – the bailiff may return until payment is made or seizure completed

• Ignoring early stages – early legal advice might prevent seizure entirely

Lawyer’s recommendation

If you’re facing enforcement on movable assets:

• Consult a lawyer immediately. You may be able to negotiate repayment, or file a motion to postpone or stop the enforcement.

• Prepare ownership evidence. If items belong to someone else, get a written declaration or invoice ready.

• Be ready even if you’re not home. A bailiff can enter with a locksmith if necessary.

Don’t wait for the knock on your door

You may think things will just “sort themselves out.” But that’s the worst mistake you can make. Bailiffs have real legal power. If you’re not ready, they can cause long-term complications. The sooner you act, the better your chances of protecting your property and your peace of mind.