Can I sell or remove seized goods to pay my debt?

No. Once seized, you may not sell, give away, move or damage the goods.

Concretely: after a bailiff visited you to make an inventory of the goods that are being seized, you can in most cases continue to use them until they are collected. Under no circumstances may you sell, damage or move them without permission.

What if you do this anyway?

This is seen as deceptive removal. This is a criminal offence and can therefore have consequences.

• A fine of €26 to €500.
• Imprisonment of 8 days to 2 years.

People who help you with this also risk punishment.

Important to know

The creditor may assume that all goods subject to seizure at your home address count. If you live together or are married, property from your partner or roommate can therefore also be confiscated. Only the rightful owner can challenge this with the attachment court through a revindication procedure. This is expensive, not always successful, and requires convincing evidence (e.g. purchase invoices or a notarial deed).

Tip: contact Modero if your question remains unanswered. Solutions are often still possible, so that sales or additional costs are avoided.

Not sure what seizure or revindication means? You can find the answer in our section something misunderstood.