Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR)
Enforce Your Rights & Recover Unpaid Rent Quickly
When tenants fail to pay their commercial rent, landlords can face serious financial setbacks. At Sheriff & Penny, we provide a fast, lawful, and efficient CRAR service, helping landlords recover overdue rent without the need for court action.
What is CRAR?
Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) is a legal process that allows landlords of commercial properties to recover unpaid rent without needing a court order. It enables enforcement agents to enter the tenant’s premises and take control of goods to settle the outstanding rent.
Key CRAR Rules & Requirements
Only for Commercial Properties
CRAR cannot be used for residential properties or mixed-use buildings.
Must Be Pure Rent
CRAR only applies to unpaid rent and not service charges, insurance, or other costs.
At Least 7 Days Overdue
The rent must be overdue by a minimum of seven days.
Enforcement by Certified Agents
Only authorised enforcement agents like Sheriff & Penny can carry out CRAR.
Our CRAR Process
Issue the Compliance Notice
We send a legally required 7-day Notice of Enforcement to the tenant, informing them of the arrears and providing an opportunity to pay.
Enforcement Agent Visit
If the tenant does not settle the arrears, our certified enforcement agents will visit the premises to take control of goods equal to the value of the unpaid rent.
Rent Recovery or Goods Seizure
The tenant has the option to pay the outstanding debt or enter a Controlled Goods Agreement (CGA). If they refuse to pay, goods may be removed and sold at auction to recover the rent owed.
Case Resolution
Once the debt is settled – either through direct payment or asset sale – the case is closed, and the landlord receives the recovered funds.
Why Choose Sheriff & Penny for CRAR?
With over 20 years of experience, our team of certified enforcement agents ensures that unpaid rent is collected professionally and in full compliance with UK law.
If your commercial tenant has fallen behind on rent, don’t wait for the arrears to build up. Sheriff & Penny’s expert CRAR service ensures you recover what’s owed to you legally and efficiently.
Certified Enforcement Agents – Our team is trained and authorised to act on your behalf.
Legally Compliant & Ethical – We follow all UK regulations to ensure a lawful recovery.
No Upfront Costs – Our fees are covered by the tenant, meaning no financial risk to you (see FAQ’s)
Quick & Effective Recovery – We act fast to minimise your financial losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQ's)
What can be seized under CRAR?
Enforcement agents can seize goods that belong to the tenant and are located on the rented premises. However, some items cannot be seized, including: tools of the trade (if under £1,350 in value), goods on finance or lease agreements or personal belongings of employees or visitors.
Do I need a court order for CRAR?
No, CRAR does not require a court order. You simply need to instruct a certified enforcement agent, who will issue the tenant with a Notice of Enforcement giving them seven days to pay before taking further action.
What happens if the tenant doesn’t pay after the notice period?
If the tenant does not pay within seven days, enforcement agents can enter the premises, take control of goods, and arrange for their sale to recover the debt.
Can I use CRAR for unpaid service charges or other debts?
No, CRAR only applies to unpaid rent. If you need to recover service charges, insurance, or other arrears, you will need to pursue a debt recovery (click HERE) claim or legal action instead.
How long does the CRAR process take?
The process can be very fast. Notice of Enforcement is issued. The tenant has 7 days to pay. If unpaid, enforcement agents visit the property. Goods can be taken and sold if payment is not made.
How much does CRAR cost?
At Sheriff & Penny, CRAR is typically free of charge to landlords, as enforcement costs are added to the tenant’s debt. You only pay if additional legal action is required, or you recall a case when enforcement has already taken place.