Eviction Fraud: A Growing Scam Targeting Landowners

It has recently come to light that certain so-called “enforcement companies” are engaged in a fraudulent scheme, paying travellers and trespassers to invade private property with the aim of extorting money from landowners.

The Scam Unfolded

A typical scenario involves a landowner (often a business like a golf club) receiving an unsolicited warning call. The caller claims to have inside knowledge that a group of travellers or trespassers is planning to target their property.

The caller may recommend a specific enforcement company that they claim to have used successfully in the past. In some cases, the caller represents themselves as a member of the enforcement company and suggests they overheard the travellers discussing the planned invasion.

Within hours of the call, a group of travellers typically arrives with caravans. These trespassers often engage in disruptive and anti-social behaviour, such as riding quad bikes on the property and misusing the landowner’s facilities.

When the landowner contacts the police, they are often informed that it is a civil matter, leaving them little choice but to seek help from the recommended enforcement company.

The Extortion

Once hired, the enforcement company arrives and formally serves notice to the travellers or trespassers. They may stay on-site, claiming to be in the process of evicting the intruders. However, in several reported cases, the company fails to remove the trespassers after staying on-site for extended periods ()sometimes up to 24 hours).

At this point, the enforcement company informs the landowner that their legal powers are limited and presents them with a hefty bill (often around £10,000) for their efforts.

The company then offers a “solution” by claiming they have negotiated with the trespassers, who have agreed to leave in exchange for a cash payment, typically around £2,000. The landowner is encouraged to pay this sum, which the enforcement company claims will be handed over to the trespassers.

Criminal Implications

This scam may involve a range of criminal offences, including conspiracy to commit fraud and extortion.

By orchestrating the trespassing and then offering a solution in exchange for money, the enforcement company is engaging in a form of fraud. Additionally, demanding cash payments to allegedly settle the matter with trespassers may constitute blackmail or extortion, especially if the enforcement company colludes with the trespassers.

Victims of this scheme are urged to report the incidents to law enforcement authorities. Investigations could lead to criminal charges for those involved, especially if evidence emerges showing that the enforcement companies are deliberately staging these trespassing incidents to exploit landowners.

Protecting Yourself

Landowners should be cautious of unsolicited calls warning of potential trespassers, especially if the caller recommends a specific enforcement company.

Before engaging any eviction services, it is essential to verify their legitimacy, check reviews, and consult with legal professionals to ensure that you are not falling victim to a scam.

Always demand written contracts and avoid cash payments to reduce the risk of fraud.

Landowners should look for Companies that are listed on the main trade association websites, such as the High Court Enforcement Officers Association and CIVEA (Civil Enforcement Association).

We can help

As approved contractors to numerous Local authorities, including Birmingham City Council, when you need a professional enforcement company to recover land, property or any other enforcement services, then contact Quality Bailiffs.

Read more about our traveller eviction service.

About the author

This article was written by Andrew Coates, Authorised High Court Enforcement Officer and full member of The High Court Enforcement Officers Association, and current CEO of Quality Bailiffs.

Andy has a Level 4 diploma in High Court Enforcement, and over twenty five years of experience in the bailiff and investigation industry. He is a former governing council member of both CIVEA and ABI.

This article does not constitute receiving professional advice legal or otherwise and is meant for educational purposes only. All information is provided in good faith and is used at the user’s own risk. Enforcement Bailiffs Ltd, or its employees, are not qualified or insured to give legal advice and all clients should satisfy themselves of their own legal position before using or proceeding with any of the suggestions, strategies or procedures contained in this guide, and before instructing us.

read more eviction articles