Limitation Act 1980: Key legislation that sets out the time limits within which different types of legal claims must be brought. For debt claims, this is typically 6 years from when the debt became due.
Consumer Credit Act 1974: Fundamental legislation governing consumer credit agreements and related debt collection practices, including requirements for information provision and consumer protections.
Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998: Legislation specifically dealing with business-to-business debts, establishing statutory rights to claim interest and compensation for late payments.
Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space) Regulations 2020: Provides legal protections for individuals with problem debt, including pausing enforcement action and freezing interest charges for up to 60 days.
FCA Handbook (CONC): Regulatory sourcebook containing detailed rules and guidance for consumer credit firms, including specific requirements for debt collection practices.
Pre-Action Protocol for Debt Claims: Court procedure rules that set out the steps creditors must take before starting court proceedings for debt recovery, including information requirements and timeframes.
Civil Procedure Rules (CPR): Rules governing civil litigation in England and Wales, including specific provisions for debt claims and enforcement procedures.
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Legislation governing how personal data must be handled, including specific provisions relevant to debt collection and credit information.
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000: Primary legislation establishing the regulatory framework for financial services in the UK, including debt collection activities.
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Legislation consolidating consumer rights and protections, including provisions relevant to debt collection practices affecting consumers.
Credit Services Association Code of Practice: Industry guidelines establishing best practices for debt collection agencies and their interactions with debtors.
Financial Ombudsman Service Guidelines: Guidelines from the official dispute resolution service, setting out expectations for fair treatment in financial services including debt collection.
