What types of commercial debt can Hollingworth Collections help with?

We review enquiries relating to unpaid invoices, overdue B2B accounts, contractor debts, supplier invoice disputes and other commercial debts over £3,000. We work with tradespeople, SMEs, limited companies, contractors and suppliers across the UK.

Is Hollingworth Collections a bailiff or solicitor firm?

No. Hollingworth Collections is not a bailiff firm, solicitor firm or regulated debt advice provider. We are a commercial debt recovery lead generation and referral service. We introduce suitable enquiries to independent recovery specialists such as Athena Collections.

How do I submit a commercial debt recovery enquiry?

Complete our free online enquiry form at hollingworthcollections.co.uk/how-it-works. Our team will review your case and, where suitable, introduce you to an experienced commercial debt recovery specialist. The process takes less than 3 minutes and is completely confidential.

Do you cover the whole of the UK?

Yes. We review enquiries from businesses across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. We cover all major UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, Bristol, Newcastle, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Is there a minimum debt amount?

We typically review commercial debts of £3,000 and above. Not every debt is suitable for recovery — some debts may be disputed, too old, poorly evidenced or linked to insolvency. Any recovery action is subject to eligibility, evidence and partner acceptance.

What is a Warrant of Control?

A Warrant of Control is issued by the County Court and instructs enforcement agents to attend the debtor's premises and seize goods to the value of the debt. It is used to enforce a County Court Judgement (CCJ).

Do I need a CCJ first?

Yes. A Warrant of Control can only be issued after a County Court Judgement has been obtained. If you do not have a CCJ, you will need to obtain one first.

What goods can be seized?

Enforcement agents can seize most goods owned by the debtor, including vehicles, equipment and stock. Certain items are exempt, including tools of trade up to £1,350 in value and basic household items.

What if the debtor has no goods?

If the debtor has no goods that can be seized, a Warrant of Control may not be effective. In this case, other enforcement methods such as a Charging Order or Attachment of Earnings may be more appropriate.

What is a Bankruptcy Petition?

A Bankruptcy Petition is a legal application to the court to make an individual bankrupt. It can be used against individual debtors (including sole traders) who owe over £5,000 and cannot pay.

Can bankruptcy proceedings be used against a company director?

Bankruptcy proceedings are used against individuals, not companies. However, they can be used against company directors personally if they have given a personal guarantee or are personally liable for the debt.

Does Hollingworth Collections carry out bankruptcy proceedings?

No. Hollingworth Collections is not a solicitor firm. We introduce suitable enquiries to independent legal specialists who can advise on and carry out bankruptcy proceedings where appropriate.

Individual Insolvency

Bankruptcy Proceedings — Individual Insolvency

A serious legal step for individual debtors who refuse to pay.

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Overview

What is Bankruptcy Proceedings?

Bankruptcy Proceedings can be used against individual debtors (including sole traders and company directors) who owe over £5,000 and cannot pay. A Bankruptcy Order results in the debtor's assets being realised and distributed to creditors.

The threat of bankruptcy often prompts payment — many individual debtors pay promptly when faced with a Bankruptcy Petition. However, it is a serious step and should only be used where the debt is clear and the debtor has assets.

Important: Hollingworth Collections is not a bailiff service, solicitor firm or regulated debt advice provider. We do not provide legal advice or carry out enforcement directly. Suitable enquiries may be introduced to independent recovery specialists and professional partners where appropriate.

The Process

How Bankruptcy Proceedings Works

Statutory Demand Served

A Statutory Demand is typically served first, giving the individual 21 days to pay before a petition is filed.

Bankruptcy Petition Filed

The creditor files a Bankruptcy Petition at the court. The debtor is notified and given an opportunity to respond.

Bankruptcy Order

If the debtor does not pay or dispute the petition, the court may make a Bankruptcy Order.

Trustee in Bankruptcy

A Trustee in Bankruptcy is appointed to realise the debtor's assets and distribute them to creditors.

Eligibility Requirements

Debt must be over £5,000
The debt must be undisputed
The individual must be unable to pay
A Statutory Demand is usually required first

Limitations & Considerations

Not suitable for disputed debts
The debtor may have limited assets
Bankruptcy proceedings are a serious step
Hollingworth Collections does not file petitions — we introduce to legal specialists

Need help with Bankruptcy Proceedings?

Submit a free enquiry — we'll review your case and advise on next steps.

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FAQ

All Enforcement & Legal Guides

Warrant of Control Writ of Control Charging Orders Attachment of Earnings Third Party Debt Orders Statutory Demands Winding Up Petitions Bankruptcy Proceedings

Need Help Recovering a Commercial Debt?

Submit a free enquiry. We'll review your commercial debt recovery case and let you know if we can help.

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