If a TV licensing officer does not have a search warrant, they do not have a legal right to enter your home. The officer can conduct the visit at the door if you deny them entry but they must leave your property immediately if you ask them to.
TV Licensing said: "Visiting officers do not have any legal powers to enter your home without a search warrant granted by a magistrate — or sheriff in Scotland."
It is important to note that if you deny a visiting officer access, TV Licensing have the right to use other methods of detection. They can also request a search warrant from a magistrate, or sheriff in Scotland.
This is only sought when a senior manager and legal advisor believe there is sufficient evidence that an offence has occurred. Visits by officers are relatively quick and involve the officer checking the main living areas to see if you are using a television.
Under the Communications Act 2003, the BBC has to collect the licence fee from people and enforce the law on those who evade it. According to TV Licensing, a visiting officer should do the following:
TV Licensing said: "Visiting officers do not have any legal powers to enter your home without a search warrant granted by a magistrate — or sheriff in Scotland."
It is important to note that if you deny a visiting officer access, TV Licensing have the right to use other methods of detection. They can also request a search warrant from a magistrate, or sheriff in Scotland.
This is only sought when a senior manager and legal advisor believe there is sufficient evidence that an offence has occurred. Visits by officers are relatively quick and involve the officer checking the main living areas to see if you are using a television.
Under the Communications Act 2003, the BBC has to collect the licence fee from people and enforce the law on those who evade it. According to TV Licensing, a visiting officer should do the following:
- Show their ID card - they can also provide a phone number you can ring to confirm their details
- Explain the reason for their visit
- Be polite and fair
- Follow all laws, regulations and policies
- Refrain from threats or intimidation
- Respect your right to privacy
- Only enter your property with permission - or if a search warrant has been granted
- Complete a record of interview with your signature when needed
- Make the person aware of what could happen as a result of commiting an offence
- End the visit if you ask them to leave - unless they have a search warrant
- Use detection equipment if needed or apply for a search warrant if they think an offence is being committed
stards)
