feeling the need to do something really bad

[FeellikeEeyore]

I found out this evening that the old tenant from my house has been using my address to take out store cards and credit cards (it's been over 3 years since he lived at the house so they are definitely not old debts). A debt collection agency were at my house when I was at work and on the note he put through my door, it basically said they would enter my property whether I was in or not. Now I'm terrified that someone is going to come to my house and take my stuff when I'm at work.

I'm also furious with the old tenant and managed to find his address on google - apparently last year he was declared bankrupt. Apparently, it's not technically against the law for him to be using my address in this way, until I suffer a financial loss.

I have done everything I can and reported the matter to action fraud, emailed the debt collection office and tried to call the number on the note through my door.

I feel so angry though and have an overwhelming urge to go and find this man and confront him. He has caused me so much stress and work over the past 3 years as I've had similar problems before (bailiffs and police have been at my house over unpaid fines) and no-one in law enforcement is taking it seriously.

Basically, I need advice on how to deal with this, so that I can stop it happening for good.

Firstly, do not panic. The note they put through the door is an automated empty threat. Full of 'we may...' and 'could result in...', I'm willing to bet. They are not allowed to say 'we will...' because most of the time, they can't These notes and letters are specifically worded to shit you up. To scare you.

These companies need to prove that Mr Ex Tenant lives at that address. To force their hand, you can send them a 'Prove It' letter - here is some info about this and a template letter:

debtcamel.co.uk/prove-it/

Here is some info from the CAB about dealing with bailiffs

www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/action-your-creditor-can-take/bailiffs/stopping-bailiffs/stopping-bailiffs-if-you-dont-owe-the-debt/

I know it's easier said than done but please try and stay calm - there is nothing that the creditors can legally do to you. Hope the links are reassuring.

Just call or email the debt company and tell them the tenants new address and that he hasn’t lived there since X date. It’s a common scenario. You won’t be forced to pay his debt.

Have they replied to your email?

It’s worth sticking a letter on your door stating that he doesn’t live there and to either call you on x number or just put his new address.

If the company has a reasonable suspicion that you’re telling the truth they won’t force entry.

You say you found out this evening and “tried” the number. I’m guessing they didn’t pick up as it was outside office hours? If so, try to get some sleep and call them in the morning.

I'm feeling so fed up of it though. I've been through this before with them. Reassuring to know that they can't just walk in and take stuff. I just don't understand how it can keep om happening.

He’s obviously a dodgy character. If you managed to find his new address that easily I’m surprised the bailiffs haven’t

I like your idea Hastings.

It's just started playing on my mind in a really negative way. I've been feeling a bit down recently as it is and I think this has pushed me over the edge.

I think bailiffs are actually a bit lazy.

Thinking about your credit file.
Again try not to panic but it might be worth checking and get any false entries amended.
Credit Wise etc