Bailiff companies commonly attempt to trace individuals with unpaid traffic fines by sending a Notice of Enforcement (NOE) or similar demands to multiple addresses they believe may be linked to the debtor.

This tactic, akin to phishing, is used to see if anyone responds and inadvertently reveals the debtor’s mobile number.

It is advisable to refrain from engaging with the bailiff company directly. Often, they will dispatch enforcement agents to verify your claims.

Still, their real intent is to clamp vehicles on the premises, compelling payment while suggesting you appeal and seek reimbursement later.

If you receive a demand in your name or your company’s name, even if you’ve never owned the vehicle listed, you have the right to appeal the traffic contravention.

When completing the TE9/PE2 form, avoid selecting any of the listed grounds for appeal. Instead, clearly state on the form:

I/My company have never owned the vehicle described as [MAKE AND MODEL AS GIVEN ON THE DOCUMENT], registration [AB12 3CD]. A copy of the document provided by the enforcement company is attached.

Submit the completed forms along with the bailiff’s document showing the vehicle registration involved in the traffic contravention to the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) at tec@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk.

According to Civil Procedure Rule 75.8 and paragraph 8.1 of Practice Direction 75, this will immediately suspend the enforcement authority until the court issues further orders, allowing you time to address the traffic contravention.

The TEC will likely refer the case back to the issuing council, who will then decide on the next steps regarding the unpaid Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).