Rough Sleeper Removal in London

Rough sleeping in London often takes the form of blocking shop and office doorways and obstructing the use of walkways and open spaces. It is also accompanied by concerns regarding waste or drug paraphernalia, anti-social behaviour and damage to the property. Where this happens, it is right that the landowners consider their options in countering this issue.

London Bailiff Services has extensive expertise and experience in this challenging field, combining an informed and effective approach to dealing with rough sleepers and homeless persons occupying private land in London.

Removing Rough Sleepers in London

For cases involving rough sleepers, we follow a process similar to other eviction scenarios. Issuing an advance notice before enforcement actions is often beneficial, especially for encampments with temporary setups like tents, where occupants may not always be present.

This preliminary step can pave the way for a smoother resolution. During initial site visits, we collaborate with clients to agree the most appropriate strategy, ensuring the eviction process aligns with both legal obligations and practical considerations.

Compliance Considerations

To ensure compliance with the proportionality requirements under Article 8 of the Human Rights Act and to avoid mistakes observed in similar cases, consideration in these eviction situations may need to be given to:

Vulnerability and Welfare: Are the individuals occupying the land particularly vulnerable, such as those with health issues, disabilities, or children? Our Enforcement agents approach these situations with care and prioritise compassionate solutions.

Access to Alternative Accommodation or Support Services: Whilst enforcement agents are not expected to act as social workers, directing occupants to local charities, shelters, or housing support organisations can help alleviate hardship and demonstrate a balanced approach.

Timing and Execution of Evictions: Sudden or overly forceful actions may be deemed disproportionate. Providing adequate notice, clear communication, and an opportunity for voluntary departure can minimise conflict, reduce distress and the possibility of legal challenge.

Property Owner Rights

Property owners hold a fundamental right under common law to exclude trespassers from their land. Whether through civil injunctions, possession orders from the courts, or the involvement of enforcement agents, the principle is straightforward: private land cannot be occupied without the owner’s consent. However, as demonstrated in recent examples involving the Metropolitan Police, the approach taken to enforce these rights can significantly impact public perception and outcomes.

If you are facing issues with rough sleepers on your property contact London Bailiff services by completing the form below, or contact us directly using the details on our contact page.

Instruct Us

This is sufficient authority for London Bailiff Services and its Agents to attend, serve notice and evict trespassers, their goods and chattels including vehicles on our land and in doing so, this shall be sufficient indemnification against all actions at law, as well as against all fees, costs, charges or expenses which they may incur or be liable to pay by reason of executing this instruction.

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And to change locks, display necessary eviction notices as necessary; doing this is your acceptable instruction, authority and indemnification also our assurance to fully indemnify and to pay all fees and further liabilities that are due from the origin under this agreement whether stipulated or not incurred by reason of your implementing this instruction; and we here by accept not to hold you responsible for any damage to buildings, land or any loss of earnings instigated by the illegal trespassers.