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.

How much does a Winding Up Petition cost?

Filing a Winding Up Petition involves court fees and legal costs. Our legal partners will advise on costs before any action is taken.

What happens to the debt if the company is wound up?

If the company is wound up, a liquidator is appointed to realise the company's assets and distribute them to creditors. Creditors may receive some or all of their debt, depending on the company's assets and the number of creditors.

Can a Winding Up Petition be withdrawn?

Yes. If the company pays the debt before the hearing, the petition can be withdrawn. Many companies pay promptly when faced with a Winding Up Petition.

Company Insolvency

Winding Up Petitions — Close Down a Non-Paying Company

A serious legal step for companies that refuse to pay commercial debts.

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Overview

What is Winding Up Petitions?

A Winding Up Petition is a legal application to the court to wind up (close down) a company that cannot pay its debts. It is one of the most serious steps a creditor can take against a company debtor.

The threat of a Winding Up Petition often prompts payment — many companies pay promptly when faced with the prospect of being wound up. However, it is a serious step and should only be used where the debt is clear and undisputed.

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 Winding Up Petitions Works

Statutory Demand (Optional)

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

Petition Filed at Court

The creditor files a Winding Up Petition at the High Court. The petition is advertised in the London Gazette.

Company Bank Accounts Frozen

Once advertised, the company's bank accounts are typically frozen — creating serious pressure to pay.

Winding Up Order

If the company does not pay or dispute the petition, the court may make a Winding Up Order, closing the company.

Eligibility Requirements

Debt must be over £750
The debt must be undisputed
The company must be unable to pay its debts
A Statutory Demand or CCJ is usually required first

Limitations & Considerations

Not suitable for disputed debts
Advertising the petition can damage the company's reputation
If the company is wound up, creditors may receive little or nothing
Hollingworth Collections does not file petitions — we introduce to legal specialists

Need help with Winding Up Petitions?

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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