24 TIPS Dealing with TV Licence Agents

24 Things to remember when dealing with TV Licensing Agents.
When do you need a TV Licence? = • When You Need To Pay F...
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[@smellyfinger684]

Pro tip: If someone knocks on your door and you don't know them, don't even get off the couch. It's worked for me for years. 👍

[@HonestLettuce]

Indeed, i go by the rule of. If you aren't Royal mail, a courier service, my landlady, a repair provider, friends, family, my boyfriend, or emergency services. Fuck off.

[@jamiebunsell3299]

I switch the PS4 for no one

[@tomp016]

thats where the cheap ring door bell comes in so handy, you can say no thankyou please leave my property from the comfort of the sofa or whatever your doing wherever without even having to open the door

[@glenyshanlon5112]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@hitnrunguy9203]

The only tip anyone needs.

[@ginjarninjar8885]

Ignore them. The one and only tip you'll ever need

[@MikeEves]

Absolutely. Why do people not get it.

[@Paul-11]

@@MikeEves yep, be calm and don't get involved in conversation. 👍

[@jonw3462]

I'm good at ignoring problems so it works out well this time

[@xvenomxreap3rx]

Had one come to my door once (I don't watch any TV unless you count Blu-ray boxsets) and he swiftly got told to "Fuck off" and had the door slammed in his face I weren't very happy that day and I had enough of the cunts coming round. Haven't had one come by since

[@DerbJd]

Open door, smile. Close door. Lock door. Done.

[@sined726]

Exactly, 23 too many.

[@howey935]

I don’t even open the door now I have a ring doorbell so all they get is a voice telling them to do one.

[@lordgooner2321]

Exactly. No need to be excessive.

[@cholland67]

Yea came here to say exact same thing lol

[@nigelkthomas9501]

Absolutely!

[@Rob-vh1en]

quickest and easiest way to deal with them is, open door, who are you? TV licensing, NO thanks, bye, close door. They are only salesmen, on commission, not officers as they would have you believe.

[@fasthracing]

100%

[@franticstorm7411]

@@fasthracing DITTO!

[@itchycoo3847]

Couldn't have said it better myself spot on.

[@CalumCarlyle]

Not quite quickest and easiest. 8/10 though. 9/10 would be to close the door without even speaking, and 10/10 would be to avoid opening the door in the first place (possibly through the use of a doorbell camera).

[@DaveF.]

@@CalumCarlyle No, I think 10/10 would be to tell them clearly and politely that you do not own a TV and then they'll stop coming round to check. There's no reason to not do this.

[@danielbentley7117]

I remember the only time I spoke to a guy knocking on the door and he said I hadn't paid. I said "I don't have a TV" and he asked to come in to check, which I refused. Then he said "Well, you do realise we have TV detection vans so we can prove you are watching" and I just said "Well, if you've got that technology why do you need to come inside to check? Surely your van has all the proof you need." and politely closed the door.

[@Ojthemighty]

You shouldn't have spoken to him at all.

[@danielbentley7117]

@@Ojthemighty I didn't know who it was until I opened the door

[@REDIGAMINGGLITCHWORX]

I've never had a TV License and my TV Works just fine. 👍

[@andygreen1a]

Just close the door and ignore all letters, don’t interact

[@andysherwood]

Good luck with your £100s / year subscriptions, sh*t programmes and right wing indoctrination.

[@marklittler784]

I don't open the door I end up loosing all the heat in the house.

[@DaveF.]

Or, alternatively, do interact by telling them you don't have a TV and they'll stop sending you letters.

[@LongPigg]

@@andysherwood "right wing indoctrination", you sure about that?

[@markhackett2302]

TVLA did get into hot water with their fake-out red letters that scared a lot of older people into paying when they didn't have to.

[@michaelgoode9555]

I have to ask: Why should you need to declare that you don't need a licence? I don't drive or for that matter own a shotgun and I don't get harassed all the time to declare that I do not need either of these licences. How come? This behaviour is entirely unreasonable in my opinion. I tried the self declaration but it became worse than harassment in my view when they started writing with their threats after a relatively short period. It's state-endorsed intimidation in my opinion. The last one who visited threatened me with the police and jail so I invited them to call the police there and then. They left swearing and shouting at me whilst they walked down the street and never returned. This was in 2016.

[@BedsitBob]

"Why should you need to declare that you don't need a licence?" You don't need to declare anything to them.

[@kippertrace5808]

I've had another letter (10) now assuring me an ''enforcement officer'' will be paying me a visit. 3 years I've been waiting 🤣

[@BedsitBob]

@@kippertrace5808 Is that 10 letters in total, or 10 letters telling you a visit has been "authorised"?

[@kippertrace5808]

@@BedsitBob 10th threatening a visit. I can't wait. Ring doorbell will be very handy if I'm out.😁

[@robburrows2737]

The aggressive goon visit in 2016 should have involved the police. I film all visitors and would have sent the video to KZbin after any legal action was over.

[@iggysfriend4431]

I did a 2-year declaration when I cancelled my licence and so far I have received 15 letters from them in the last 21 months. So the declaration may work but in my case they have clearly ignored it. One thing that really annoys me is that their letters are written in a decpetive manner to get you to buy a licence. They imply watching on demand TV such as Amazon Prime, NetFlix, 4OD etc requires a licence which it doesn't.

[@vman2kay]

Their letters always imply you need a license for watching anything, and then only at the end of the letter do they reveal the details so it's carefully worded to make you sound guilty and pay up for a license no matter what you watch. It's for that reason you shouldn't do a declaration because they're crooks, and just ignore them as they can do one.

[@Gazzxy]

@@vman2kay they are sceeming crooks for sure.. I havent had a licence for about 10 years. yet every letter that does come through (only on ocasion now thankfully) is VERRY hostile and deceptive.. and every time I lodge a complaint which may have something to do with the deminished letter

[@handleisGG]

Even KZbin

[@Treblaine]

It's written into the law the presumption that everyone watches the BBC. It's so corrupt.

[@BradBrassman]

As he states, by far the best defence is a camera and film them. It really is like Garlic to a Vampire and they clear off at high speed. I saw the footage (secretly filmed) where the Capita instructor tutoring new employees tells them, "if you see a camera or the person called on starts filming, leave immediately as we dont want your image on social media" .

[@blooaloo7820]

I enjoy them calling, I encourage and wait for them to visit on purpose. I don't even own a TV. So I always make sure to ask them loudly at the door about the BBC covering for Jimmy Saville. I try to keep them there as long as possible and waste as much time as I can, but they usually scurry away like rats pretty fast.

[@mechanoid5739]

The thing that really grinds my gears with TV licensing is the way that they harass and generally send intimidating letters designed to frighten you into getting a license when you don't need one. Even when a declaration has been sent stating that a TV license is not required it is frequently ignored and the intimidation continues. Is there no way of making them answer for their actions legally?

[@concernedcitizen12577]

It's the financial cost involved that grinds me. Those who buy TV Licence pay for all these letters, then we as council tax payers have to pay for the recycling how many tons of paper, envelopes are recycled every year. One thing it helps keep the postman in a job I suppose.

[@adiem1653]

I bought a house in 2005 and for various issues I didn't live in it for nearly 10 years as I was refurbing it - anyway I received literally dozens of letters and threats with court etc. Towards the end I wrote on all of them 'Return to Sender' with a comment saying this was Harassment and legal proceedings would be taken. The letters diminished but a few still came, I just carried on returning them lol

[@hadleigh55]

send them letters outlining you feeling harassed..give them one further opportunity to stop otherwise you will be forced to take them to county court and sue them...if you have sent a declaration the courts will automatically be in your favour...

[@davidsmith7653]

I have no problem with the threatening letters. I light my fires with them.

[@ronoc89]

Just send the letters back and dont open them!

[@redred7289]

Netflix is so much cheaper than a TV licence. I really don't understand why anyone in the 21st century watches TV at all.

[@hadleigh55]

cheaper ??? Netflix is free on the internet..if you need help to get it let me know

[@carljcmjk8609]

Uhm because some stuff is live

[@hadleigh55]

@@jobloggs6947 which link do yours use

[@redred7289]

@Jo Bloggs shiver me timbers

[@Teknotion]

Rule #1: Don't open your door to them. That's it. You don't need to know anything else. No contact, no contract.

[@harrisonkeenan7440]

What if you have a tv

[@Teknotion]

@@harrisonkeenan7440 You don't need a licence to own a TV.

[@towenaar4142]

@@harrisonkeenan7440 They won't know if you don't open the door.

[@markpaul1154]

You forgot number 25 + 26 The Most important one. Do not give out or confirm your name and NEVER sign anything you haven't had read by an expert such as a lawyer or accountant who understands what you are signing. Nobody has ever successfully prosecuted "The occupier"

[@BlatentlyFakeName]

If they give you something to sign, strike it through and write "not interviewed" on it (don't sign it). Then they can't use it.

[@celery4564]

The only tip you need is as soon as they tell you they are TV licencing you just shut the door. There is nothing they can do, they have no right of entry to your property.

[@MikeEves]

Absolutely. They would never get a warrant if you do this

[@Gryffster]

I prefer to leave them doubting the purpose of their existence.

[@michaelnagy298]

And always film them because they will lie

[@Andrew-rc3vh]

You should always be polite to people.

[@celery4564]

@@Andrew-rc3vh You must work as a TV licencing goon? I won't be polite to these idiots.

[@skyeyoung8714]

I had a tv licence bloke storm into my flat and I said to him what do I need a tv licence he said yes everyone needs a tv licence in a angry mood he looked around my flat I said what I need a tv licence even when I haven't got a tv.He stormed out in anger.He never asked me he just pushed past me.I didn't have a tv for two years.His attitude was disgusting especially as I didn't do anything wrong.

[@camellia8625]

Shocking.

[@niamhosullivan1291]

No doubt he was one of the protected classes.

[@AP-nj1mr]

Down with TV tax.✊

[@Talos2kX]

It only exists if you allow it :)

[@_Shadow_Man_2024]

No contact. No contract. Just ignore. 14yrs ive not paid a penny. Only self admittance will get you prosecuted.

[@Talos2kX]

I don't get letters now, last time was about 2 years ago :) They don't even have my name so they're clutching at straws.

[@AdamKyleAnderson]

I live in a block of flats. To get in the building you have to ring the buzzer at the main door. I simply don't let anybody in who I don't recognise unless they happen to be people coming to do work in my flat or any of the usual delivery services.

[@stevenwilloughby1848]

Same. Lol.

[@NoName-eo2mv]

Yep that’s why I never saw them for 9 years 😂

[@robburrows2737]

I have a sign on my door saying no sellers, religious groups or TV licence Goons. That and writing in reply inviting them to come in for a £300 charge (on condition I film them throughout to avoid being verbelled up or otherwise framed) has had the desired effect. I love your channel and advice. Thanks!!!!

[@Gazzxy]

i think I saw that sign on someone door once

[@John_Lyle]

There was a council campaign near where I live to stop door-to-door hawkers selling unnecessary stuff to OAP's that involved giving everybody stickers saying "I don't buy goods or services on the doorstep". Lots of people just pointed at their sticker and closed the door when TVL turned up.

[@hurleyflyer263]

BBB, missed one. Tip 25, if you don't need a TV licence, because you don't watch TV, you don't need tips 1 to 24. If you are unfortunately taken to court for the offence of, watching a TV, without a licence, and the TV licence prosecution fail. Always, always go for a malicious prosecution against the TV Licence and the individual who makes a claim against you. If you don't, they win again. At that point, pay for legal advice, the legals will be queuing up for that win.

[@markhackett2302]

The offence is the holding of a TV able to receive broadcast signals (and in the recent past an additional addition of watching via iPlayer from the BBC), not watching. A de-tuned TV or one that is not plugged in to the broadcast system legally does not require a license to own, but for instance I have superglued a lid over the inputs so that the TV cannot be used to receive broadcasts.

[@hurleyflyer263]

@@markhackett2302 This is the Legislation. A TV Licence is a legal permission to install or use television receiving equipment to watch or record television programmes as they are being shown on TV or live on an online TV service, and to download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch up TV, on BBC iPlayer. This could be on any device, including TVs, desktop computers, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, games consoles, digital boxes, DVD, Blu-ray and VHS recorders. This applies regardless of which television channels a person receives or how those channels are received. The licence fee is not a payment for BBC services (or any other television service), although licence fee revenue is used to fund the BBC. The requirement to hold a TV Licence and to pay a fee for it is mandated by law under the Communications Act 2003 and Communications (Television Licensing) Regulations 2004 (as amended). It is an offence to watch or record television programmes as they are being shown on any channel and on any broadcast platform (terrestrial, satellite, cable and the internet) or download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch up TV, on BBC iPlayer without a valid TV Licence. Section 363 of the Communications Act 2003 makes it an offence to install or use a television receiver to watch or record any television programmes as they’re being shown on television without a TV Licence. Section 365 of that Act requires that a person to whom a TV Licence is issued must pay a fee to the BBC. The nature and amount of this fee is set out in the Communications (Television Licensing) Regulations 2004 (as amended). Since 1991, the BBC, in its role as the relevant licensing authority, has been responsible for collecting and enforcing the TV Licence fee. The BBC contracts companies to do this work under the BBC trademark ‘TV Licensing’. The BBC (and contractors acting on its behalf) must comply with the law in collecting and enforcing the licence fee. The BBC Charter further requires that these arrangements be appropriate, proportionate and efficient. If you don't do any of the above, you don't need a licence.

[@markhackett2302]

@@hurleyflyer263 Yes, you don't have to be using it at that moment, you have to be able to use it. Block the input? Can't use it.

[@cigmorfil4101]

@@markhackett2302 No, the offence is having a tv *installed for the purpose* of receiving a broadcast television service regardless of whether it is installed for any other purpose, not just having one. I have old home computers and video games consoles that *need* a tv as a display unit (on ch 36 which was a right pain when channel 5 started in the London area on ch 37 despite so many devices using ch 36 for effectively CCTV - purchasing one device after the "retuning" of those devices was stopped led to horrendous interference from Channel 5 when trying to use my device (you may have noticed that on the old analogue TVs the channels were 3 channels apart - to prevent such interference).

[@markhackett2302]

@@cigmorfil4101 No, they added more laws. They don't stay the same.

[@carlf3051]

(Open door) "I haven't got a TV license because I don't need one, and no, you can't have my details for your records, good bye" (Close door) - Always works a treat ✔️

[@Talos2kX]

*GREAT SUCCESS!!*

[@nottjohn9418]

How refreshing to see a sensible approach rather than questioning an agent's parentage.

[@vmax1399]

The issue of the parentage is a given as they are all fallen men

[@thomas.parnell7365]

Wouldn't question the parentage if they dressed like a just eat delivery man .just say I didn't order a fucking pizza.

[@charman3630]

Anyone else addicted to this guy and his advice. Knowledge is power.

[@swisstoni2913]

FFS! ONE tip. 'Hello who are you?. Goodbye'. Do not engage.

[@jjab99]

Many thanks for these great tips. I have seen some quite funny videos of the way some people treat the TV Inspectors, but I think following your guidance would probably be better for everyone concerned. Have a great day, Joe

[@DerbJd]

“They’re in the downstairs living room… And they’re watching Columbo.”, said the man in the ice cream van with some coat hangers on the roof.

[@ianbennett1491]

I remember that.😂

[@Swat-ed5bt]

Love this channel 😍

[@martinholmes1493]

The only tip you need is: Do not engage in a dialect with these people. They have no right of entry, no right to question, no right to actually be on your property. If one of these people actually show up at your door (which is highly unlikely despite cronzillions of threatening hate mail) you can do one of 3 things: N0 1) Ask them politely who they are and what they want, then simply say no thank you and close the door. N0 2) Ask them politely who they are and what they want, then just close the door. N0 3) Don`t even answer the door. Do not engage them, do not allow them into your home, do not answer any questions, do not shout at them or physically man handle them.

[@Talos2kX]

A boiling kettle with a sugar/water mix does the trick ;D

[@chrisclarke6344]

@@Talos2kX followed by 5 years for aggravated assualt resulting in grievous bodily harm.

[@DaveF.]

@@chrisclarke6344 Indeed - or, I dunno, you could just tell them you don't have a TV, not allow them entry to 'check', and err, that's it. There's no reason to be a git to "these people".

[@chrisclarke6344]

@@DaveF. the conversation should go Knock Opens door Who are you? Tvl No thanks goodbye Slam Havnt paid these vultures in ten years two visits and threatogram every month.

[@contessa.adella]

I still have a visible tv aerial….so I guess thats grounds for a warrant, but once inside, nothing works…there is no tv signal. On the down dide we have a BBC iPlayer app on one tv which is irremovable. Countering THAT….the app shows as locked and it asks for an acviunt to be crested which proves it has never been used. However, these subtleties are likely beyond tvl goons, so I guess it would go to court.

[@Lee.Willcox]

What does a genuine warrant look like and how can one tell if it is genuine. Would the TV Goons have to be accompanied by the police ? I wouldn't have a clue if someone turned up at my door with a slip of paper demanding entry so I would shut the door.

[@CptCactus-11-20-6]

I'd like to know all that also.

[@jamietaylor5570]

A warrant/order will generally be a rather unimpressive piece of paper. I think the ony way to really check is to contact the court. I don't know if you can reasonably make them wait while you do that. Technically TVL don't need to have police present to execute, but it is their policy to always do so. If they have uniformed police present that's a pretty good indicator that the warrant/order is genuine.

[@BradBrassman]

@@jamietaylor5570 Its isnt even TVL as they use Capita another private company.

[@mda5003]

Best not to even open the door then you can't be accused of being obstructive.

[@jamietaylor5570]

@@BradBrassman Well TVL is a brand name the BBC allow Capita/etc to use. Legally it's all on behalf of the BBC but they don't seem to want put their logo on it for some reason.

[@kai7692]

How can a magistrate give a sales person rights to enter someones home?

[@realhass]

Because magistrate are bunch of crooks

[@Gryffster]

The strange thing about magistrates is that they don't need any kind of legal training at all. Anyone can be a magistrate, they are often just members of the public.

[@kenmcintosh3705]

Quite true, magistrates don't. A search warrant needs evidence to be granted, and what evidence could they get unless you let them in and show them you are watching TV, and letting them film you 😆😆

[@Gryffster]

@@kenmcintosh3705 The standard of evidence is variable and often quite low (presumably from magistrate to magistrate). There was a case in Scotland some time ago where a Capita chimp went to a magistrate and claimed to have seen "The flickering of a television set through the closed curtains". He was granted a warrant, but as it turned out there was nothing in the room that could have caused such a flickering (no TV, no laptop, no PC, NOTHING) He'd clearly lied under oath. The homeowner took the chimp to court, but the judge let him off saying "He'd probably just made a mistake". We shouldn't assume the courts are impartial on this issue. They aren't.

[@BedsitBob]

Section 366 of the Communication Act 2003 allows the Magistrate to do so.

[@ArminGrewe]

Haven't had a TV license for over 20 years. Had a visit once ~15 years ago, told them friendly I didn't need one and that was it. And since they (finally) implemented the online declaration I just renew it every couple of years without any problems.

[@Gryffster]

Why though? You have ZERO obligation to do that.

[@ArminGrewe]

@@Gryffster because it makes my life easier. In my experience life is much easier if you're friendly and cooperative, yet firm as necessary. Being confrontational and uncooperative generally just creates more hassle and doesn't get the results you want.

[@Gryffster]

​@@ArminGrewe I understand your position and it's a personal choice. But my personal choice not to interact with the BBC's agents isn't confrontational - it's entirely passive. Only THEY can create confrontation (which they sometimes try to do) I've been without a licence since 2008. The letters are treated just like any other junk mail. I've had two visits one at 8.30 on a winters evening. Both resulted in them going away sharpish empty-handed. I see this behaviour as harassment and bullying. And you never give in to bullies!

[@jeffbridges666]

Main tip, dont answer the door

[@lavrentizapadni747]

A very useful video indeed! Downloaded and saved for future reference!

[@martienhewitt2578]

Literally the best communication and comment I’ve ever heard

[@williambarnes3868]

If the TV tax people keep sending letters which seem to assume that you are guilty of some legal infraction and send an 'agent' to investigate can we have them charged with harrassment? If not, why not?

[@brianwhittington5086]

If you've cancelled a licence on line, or by calling them, they should take your address off their mailing list for two years. You may get a visit as the BBC employ Capita to chase up unlicensed property, and as they're trying to sell licences, they may try their luck. Ì cancelled mine some time ago, but letters kept coming. I eventually rang and insisted on lodging a complaint with customer services. Appology received and I also found out I'd been under refunded. If you paid by monthly bank DD, you will have paid 6 months in advance. When you cancell, they will usually give you a 2 month refund and a new end date to your licence. What they conveniently forget to tell you is you are entitled to the other 4 months, and you have to apply for the refund. Their letter makes it sound like the new licence expiry is a gesture, when it's actually 4 months of your money they're trying to avoid repaying you ! As expected, they made an excuse it was an oversight they had not mentioned the 6 month refund.

[@mda5003]

Because the law gives them the right to investigate and "request" payment for what they believe is due. That is why it should be decriminalised but then non-licence fee payers may end up getting threatened with civil action and uniformed bailiffs knocking at the door who's presence could be even more intimidating.

[@paulbeddows6014]

Funny that after I said contact me again in any way shape or form I'm going to scream harassment not heard a thing since.

[@brianwhittington5086]

@Paul Beddows I too said I considered it harassment they kept sending the red threat letters after I'd legally registered as not needing a licence. It's just scare tactics as they know some will just pay up eventually to avoid problems. The moment I said I want to escalate a complaint to one of threat and harassment, I got put straight through to a named senior customer complaint manager. He investigated my complaint and actually rang me back, and a follow up call to check I'd received a second refund cheque for the missing 4 months they tried to avoid refunding. It pays to insist on dealing with someone above call centre agents.

[@smellyfinger684]

It's been tried with no success. Capita have their fingers in a lot of government pies. They're pretty much untouchable.

[@bampitony6108]

Thank you sir for this information...Respect to you sir..👏👏👏

[@elaineedgar2913]

Thank you BBB. We have received a letter asking if we are going to be at home on a specific date. We will not open door, we will be polite and we will record and film anyone, if we are going to be at home. They have stated if we’re not at home they will be back.

[@littlemissy2883]

I get letters like that all the time, no one ever shows up, or they may do when I'm at work,

[@philt5782]

Great information. Thank you. I have heard of a lot of them but some I haven't. Very informative.

[@JG-fv9bv]

Open the door , say no thank you and close the door .. simple and NEVER sign anything

[@tallulah_b.1368]

don't even open the door

[@karengill8234]

Many thanks. …..

[@phillipsharpe6459]

Ascertain who is knocking at your door, shut the door in their face, job done, 😁👍

[@eggyboy123]

Thank you. Very informative

[@ashmash1934]

Declarations work if you live at all rurally or there are no other houses to visit near you. They can't afford to send agents for tens of miles for a single house visit, so if you are the only house on their radar in a given area they can't justify sending someone to visit you. If you live in a city it is unlikely to keep them from your door though. I don't know anyone in London who avoided a visit by declaring, but likewise I've never had a visit in 4 years of being BBC-free here in rural South Wales in a hamlet of just 12 houses with a 25 minute drive to the nearest shop/town.

[@EcoHamletsUK]

So that explains my lack of visits for the last 20 years. I assumed it was because they know I'm a very honest person😇.

[@srspower]

It's been ten months since I moved in to my new build house in a rural but large village, I got a letter from the TV people before the council could even calculate my council tax! But I just declared online. No visit to date.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

@@srspower Most people who have done the declaration still get letters after a few months, it's supposed to stop them ding this for 2 years! (it happened to us), so we don't renew it as we get letters either way.

[@derekheeps1244]

@@Thurgosh_OG I've been two years in my late mum's house ; one declaration , nothing further . I'd love for them to visit because I have neither a TV set nor an internet connection - I do not watch TV in any form .

[@brettharter143]

Ive declared and never been visited

[@stephenbaxter3369]

The Government has announced that the TV licence will be abolished at the end of 2027 with consultation on a new funding model for the BBC. The existing licence fee will be frozen at the current annual sum of £159 for two years. There needs to be a through review of BBC operations and a move to a subscription type service in preparation for a stock market flotation with shares offered at a discount to every British citizen.

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

Thanks, about time too! I wonder how long it will take them to start harassing people for not buying shares in the BBC 🤣?

[@littlemissy2883]

That statement read under Boris Johnson's government, so he could be kicked out before 2027

[@rolandmasters105]

Excellent invaluable information. Knowledge is power.

[@michaeldeleonardo9301]

You are great...all this advice on your videos...is eye opening

[@BedsitBob]

Make sure to check the date of issue, of a Search Warrant. They only last 1 month. Also, they can only be used once, ie. although they can visit your home several times, they can only search you property once, for each Search Warrant.

[@sc3Eptic]

Great tips ! As to the "caution" apparently anything you say whilst not under caution is admisibile though s114 and although s34 applies only to questioning under caution, magistrates will still draw adverse inferences if a caution hadn't been applied (apparently rules only apply when convenient and a s78 application based on that is refused routinely) As a result "mute" is key !

[@matthewmcnerlin231]

Let’s not forget for those who are watching in the other jurisdictions of the UK outside Eng/Wales, that the law of evidence is different when it comes to drawing adverse inferences.

[@thomas.parnell7365]

To fair if did have to deal with salesman I'd just sorry I didn't order a paedophile then close the door.

[@Lego6980]

Really useful. Thank you

[@gardenrose264]

This is so important information. Abuse from so many authorities who think they have the right to do what they want. Thank you Daniel....

[@robtheplod]

Good timing.... it would be lovely if the elderly and vulnerable could take action against the BBC for threatening letters causing harm and distress..... but this seems legal whereas if it was from another company it might not be??

[@Gryffster]

They certainly skirt the lines of malicious communications. I think they are aware of the thin ice they skate upon.

[@BigMonMulgrew]

Had a guy come to my door once for TV licensing. He asked if he could speak to me, I said "Sure if you are willing to pay my hourly rate", he asked for entry and I denied it. We then had an hour and a half conversation about my TV usage, the philosophy of them being pushy jerks, him telling me they have TV vans going around detecting TV watching and me explaining to him why thats impossible so he's either lying or wrong. I don't watch TV, haven't for years and my TVs are not setup to receive a signal. They are internet and gaming devices. I refused to answer most of his questions about me directly as I have no obligation to do so and the questions I did answer stated very clearly that I do no watch anything requiring a TV license. After our hour and a half conversation where he's giving up and says goodbye I ask him if I should send the invoice to the address on the TV licensing letter or if he has a particular address he'd like it sent to. He went white and left as quickly as he could without replying. I now have a sign in sheet by my door for next time and am thinking of putting up a camera.

[@alllisonandthekids]

Fantastic thank you

[@willscott1171]

Self-declaration has worked for me for years now, it takes minutes to do, and they leave me alone for another two years

[@magnuscarter9195]

In my experience the online declaration works for about 2 months before the harassment resumes.

[@dlevi67]

4 years and counting, here...

[@LongPigg]

Why even bother with that, let them waste money on stupid letters.

[@MyMy-tv7fd]

just say 'Not today thank you and shut the door'. Jobs a good un. If they have a warrant plod will be there, otherwise they are just on a fishing expedition.

[@robertobuono1266]

Online declaration has been working for me. Can't quite remember but think I've had to submit it online every 2 years or so

[@blackpoolbootz2790]

Great video know your rights. I do a 2 year no licence needed but would not let them in to check anyway (nothing to hide) but a company that acts of intimidation and comission not going to get through by front door.

[@neilsmith9220]

I studied criminal law for many years and this, to me, is some of the best legal advice I've ever seen on the web regarding this subject. Very well done, BBB.

[@grahvis]

I have had brushes with TV licensing on and off for about 50 years, never bothered me in the slightest. The last one was an affable chap at the door who said there was no licence for the address, I told him that was because I didn't have a television. The reply was 'fair enough' and he left, a couple of days later I had a letter saying they wouldn't bother me again for the next two years.

[@DaveF.]

Yup - more or less the same here - I've not heard from them in the last five years - except, perhaps, I had one letter asking me to confirm I didn't require a license. Seems fair enough.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

@@DaveF. I hope you didn't reply to confirm this, as no other company can require you tell them you don't need their service, you just don't use it and therefore don't have to pay for it.

[@Gryffster]

@@Thurgosh_OG More people need to understand that. The BBC imply an obligation that doesn't exist. I hate it when people give in to this bullying.

[@DaveF.]

@@Thurgosh_OG Of course I replied - to not do so would incur the BBC (or capita) further costs, which would only be passed on to license fee payers and cause them to send me further letters. What's wrong with not being an arse about this?

[@DaveF.]

@@progrockrules I don't hae a TV and also don't have a license - but I also have absolutely no problem in confirming that if asked. I've watched quite a few SovCit videos recently - it's the same attitude - be an arse to anyone who asks you a question just because you can. Rather sad really.

[@ML-xh1go]

Thank you for this information,,barrister ,

[@roberttaylor5995]

Absolutely as brilliant as ever. Well put Sir!!! That was awesome and I think the channel 'Chilli Jon Carne', and You really need to have a chat on this one. I reckon John, would fully agree 100% and echo what you say here. A Big Fan: Rob. T., South Wales, UK.

[@davidspear9790]

About warrants generally. It's vital that you ask to see the warrant before allowing entry. As two or more people are usually in attendance to execute the warrant, you will have no idea what the other people are doing in the background. It may be that the warrant hasn't been issued yet. It's probably unlikely, but it's worth checking.

[@carolramsey6287]

Warrants are rarely open ended except in special circumstances and usually specify a time and date upon which they must be executed. The warrant should also name the officer carrying it out and specify who may accompany him. It must also be returned to the Court once it has been used

[@smellyfinger684]

Warrants are very rarely issued for TVL. Generally it's the smart alecs who argue with these vultures for KZbin clout who get shafted. Once they have that warrant, they act like mini Stalin's and plod will assist them.

[@markhackett2302]

@@carolramsey6287 And the warrant is for the TVLA, so only pertain to TV equipment in "normal places to find such TVs", so you don't take them upstairs, and no valid warrant will insist other than the main room and the dining room be searched.

[@carolramsey6287]

@@markhackett2302 The problem is not merely that you have equipment capable of receiving live broadcasts and BBC iPlayer but proving that you are actually using it for such. Is it not also possible to use your smartphone, PC, laptop, iPad or tablet for this purpose? I wouldn't know as I have absolutely no interest in watching any TV, broadcast or otherwise

[@markhackett2302]

@@carolramsey6287 It isn't "using it" since you are clearly not using it when the TV is turned off. It is the capability of using broadcast signals, doesn't matter if it is BBC or any other channel, or use the iPlayer app.

[@methree3821]

Love your approach, helping people. This is a real blackbelt attack! 👊🏽

[@Thurgosh_OG]

We Black Belts don't attack. We just use a very strong defence to defeat opposition.

[@jmcdowall15]

I haven't had a tv since the 90s, I also declared I had no tv. A few years later I had a visit from a tv licence officer who I was happy to let into my home to take a look around. He walked in all cocky and feeling pleased with himself until I pointed out where the cable for the tv signal was and that it was empty. He then looked angry, and frustrated, barged past me knocking me over, he then slammed my front door closed as he left. A few years later I had another visit, I partially opened my door and told him to go away and come back with two female police officers and I may let him in once again, see I have no tv, no Internet, no computers etc... I have my phone and that's all I need. I still get letters but they go straight into the recycling.

[@tomjohns8498]

I really enjoy listening to you it's nice to hear that law's can be written in plain English 😃🥰

[@jondixon4937]

I love your videos in general and your factual stance on the topics you cover, but I do not think that people need to pay for an hour with a lawyer to understand the circumstanses in which they do not need a licence or can be prosecuted for not having one. I think it's pretty clear to be honest. If you don't watch anything live through an aerial or the internet (including live iplayers) and don't use any BBC catch up services, then you don't need a tv licence. There is an abundance of information online that outlines these basic rules and even the BBC website and their threatening letters contain this information, albeit in a somewhat obfuscated fashion.

[@alfieharrison2236]

One would assume he’s put this on here purely as a disclaimer for his advice as many of his videos end this way. I can’t imagine many are really that confused about whether or not they need a licence.

[@jamesmcdade9687]

Exactly. I assume this video is more to reel in the conspiracy nuts:D

[@nineteen8486]

Lots of things called conspiracies 2 years ago…. Are not conspiracies anymore 😉

[@sirmalus5153]

I took the ariel down AND the sky dish, as I don't use them at all. My tv has never been tuned to ANY channel, not even the internet. My disc player can't even take a signal from anything, as nothing is plugged into it and it cannot go on line at all, not even using wireless (no feature too do this installed in the machine anyway, it's too old) My system is completely 'dumb'. Good luck trying to proove I watch live tv. I haven't done so for many years and don't miss it one jot. I do like to watch films though on disc, which I buy.

[@seanmurray8051]

@@nineteen8486 sad but true.

[@stephenbetley9596]

One note, which is more relevent for earlier points is the nature of the enforcement officers that visit your property. They are literally contracted salespersons, have no legal authority whatsoever, and are only there to verbally coerce you into paying for a licence for which they receive a commission. Just say nothing & close the door.

[@Michael-4]

Very good!

[@bunnywarren]

The online form has worked for me for over 8 years and I've never heard anything except after 2 years where I quickly fill a new one in.

[@penstroke2536]

Important one he missed. Do not sign anything they ask you to. I know people who have signed forms to confirm the agent knocked at the property only to have said agent, once back at their car, fill the form with lies about evidence of tv usage. As others have advised say nothing and they get nothing.

[@jhfdhgvnbjm75]

A video about warrants would be helpful, what to do if people say they have one, where to check it, what you should do if you find the warrant if incorrect or unlawful.

[@BlokeOnAMotorbike]

get the agents name then call the police. They take a dim view of fraudsters.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

@@BlokeOnAMotorbike If it's a genuine warrant, they are almost always accompanied by the police. The police are not there to assist with the search but to keep the peace and ensure entry. I'd be very suspicious of a TVL salesman turning up at someone's door without a police presence.

[@tallulah_b.1368]

@@Thurgosh_OG ensure entry? I don't think so. peace keepers only. no forced entry allowed

[@s0dfish110]

I used the online one. Worked for me.

[@RowleyBQC]

Declaring I didn't need one online has worked for me for a couple of years. Although I got fed up with them sending letters and coming round. So I invited one in to show them I didn't need one, I asked that he agreed that I didn't, he did then he left. Haven't had live TV plugged in for years and I don't have an account with any of the streaming versions, there's no need for either these days unless it's your only option.

[@solitaryangel722]

Regarding the online declaration, I just got one and ticked no to all five questions and it said...according to your responses you do need a tv license so...I re-read them and sure enough, the way two of the questions are worded are...well awful Are you sure that you do not watch live streaming TV on anything like a TV, a tablet, a phone or a computer including KZbin live streams and the answer is in fact YES I just ticked no then realised that the question was worded in a way that was asking not...do you watch blah blah blah but are you sure that you do not watch blah blah blah. My mistake but, could have been worded better.

[@tallulah_b.1368]

I think it's deliberately worded thus to make sure you have read, understood and answered correctly

[@ProjectFlashlight612]

25. When they come to your door, pretend from the very first second that YOU are the licence officer. Demand their details and ask if you can come outside to check their telly.

[@ProjectFlashlight612]

@Girls on film What isn't

[@NOWThatsRichy]

I done the 'No Licence needed declaration' thing about a year ago. Not been troubled again so far.

[@michaelmiller5387]

Another nice vid thx....Just a few comments, the online declaration requires all boxes to be completed, they ask name address, email account and a whole lot more besides. Fail to fill in any one of these boxes means you cannot submit the online form. If you make the declaration on the phone failure to give any information they ask for means they will refuse to take the details. The best way to deal with these people is to just ignore them. Shred the letters, If you want to be cantankerous write on the envelope return to sender and put it in the post box that way they will have to pay the postage. If they knock on the door just ask who they are and if they say TV Licensing say 'no thanks and close the door.

[@licencefreetv]

Great video - really great to see many of the things that campaigners have been saying for years given additional support. One thing that might be useful to add is that TV Licensing is seeking confession evidence, and that brings in the PACE/legal procedure rights - the right to legal advice, the right to silence, and the right under PACE to decline to be interviewed. I'd also be interested in how these rights work in the context of a Warrant (I assume the same), and how they can be invoked in advance (again, I assume the same). In terms of the cost of legal advice, could an interview be made conditional on TVL paying for the Solicitor?

[@derekheeps1244]

I cannot confess to something I genuinely do not do - I DO NOT HAVE A TV SET .

[@licencefreetv]

@@derekheeps1244 Phone, tablet, PC?

[@licencefreetv]

@@derekheeps1244 By "confession" I mean they write down a confession - it doesn't necessarily mean that you have confessed with informed consent and contrition.

[@lolobuto1608]

@@licencefreetv you mean you need a license to use computers and phones in your country !? Man your country is so corrupt

[@licencefreetv]

@@lolobuto1608 Not exactly - you need a TV Licence if you watch TV broadcasts or use the BBC's on-demand service. That applies whatever hardware you're using. It's not so much corruption as the remnants of a Class system that just won't end.

[@pdfbrander]

You do not need 24 tips. Ignore the letters or declare that you do not need a TV licence. If someone comes to the door, say "No thank you" and close the door.

[@ProfessorDoom]

DO NOT DECLARE - they are not entitled to your private information and there is no legal obligation for you to make a decleration to them.

[@tommiller1315]

I ceased buying a TV licence in 2006 and don't miss live TV at all. A massive saving of over £2,000 so far. Another reason for stopping is my protest at ridiculous salaries to presenters, and more recently, the use of offensive language on entertainment programs broadcast at 1830, weekdays on Radio 4. Occasional hotel stays and looking through a TV magazine, allowed me to confirm my view! I only view items on KZbin, or similar free to view internet based content, and I buy DVD videos 10 for £1 from charity shops or occasional sets from online suppliers (DVDs don't get erased). I watch my choice of interesting channels such as this. Thanks for another great video.

[@lisaedwards4626]

I cancelled my licence by emailing the tv licencing direct, they were the ones who did the declaration on my behalf, they even refunded monies owed. 2 days later I recieved letter asking the household to get a tv licence. The mind boggles!

[@PSTRIPPLEE]

😂😂😂

[@fasthracing]

For clarity, under what circumstances can a warrant be obtained to search your property in relation to this matter?

[@jakebullet1731]

Warrants are issued by a Magistrate. So the agent needs to present evidence of illegality and that such evidence was obtained legally. Really this amounts to you saying something to them on the doorstep that indicates you are using BBC TV services or live TV on other channels. Or that they obtain photographic evidence of a TV with a live broadcast. Note that there has NEVER been “TV detector van” evidence presented in ANY court case. Interesting fact 🤔

[@MikeEves]

Just don't open the door. No obligation to open it

[@smellyfinger684]

If TVL have a reasonable suspicion that you are watching TV. That's it. Never get into a debate with them at the door, that's the mistake most people make. If you do answer the door, as soon as they identify themselves simply say "no thanks" and close the door.

[@mikebenson5416]

@@jakebullet1731 that's because detector vans don't exist. Just something they made up to scare people.

[@twinky666666]

The Warrant must be signed by a judge too !!

[@stephenroskilly3737]

You spoke about police powers following someone into your property during a criminal incident. Police recently broke into my high walled garden at 2:30 in the middle of the night, after a suspect who scaled its 8ft to escape capture. The substantial door was broken by a battering ram, the suspect caught but then everyone just left leaving me with a broken lock, split door, loose frame etc. Nobody has ever contacted me to apologise or offer to compensate me. If I’d been away on holiday my house would have suddenly been made significantly more vulnerable. Maybe a subject for a future video on your splendid channel.

[@johncorner9295]

Nice one..

[@Gryffster]

In 13 years without a licence I've had 2 visits by Capita thugs. On both occasions I assertively instructed them to leave my property. On both occasions they initially ignored that instruction and instead started interrogating me. "What is your name? What is your mobile number?" It was only when I became, shall we say, even more assertive, that they finally left. This suggests to me that they are trained to ignore the homeowners instructions. I'd love to know what goes on in the training sessions.

[@gpo746]

Apply for the job of a goon and find out .

[@BedsitBob]

@@gpo746 He/she can't, because they don't have a TV Licence.

[@timesquare5473]

@@BedsitBob There's a hole in my bucket dear Liza, dear Liza. But you may be too young to remember the tune 🤪

[@KingOfCrunkMaster]

Can you do a video on what constitutes a valid warrant please? I've seen various videos where TV licencing salesmen or other individuals claim to have warrants, sometimes even displaying something they claim to be a warrant, but when challeged on the authenticity of the warrant they seem to back down without executing a search. That would give me the impression that on these occasions they often do not actually possess a valid warrant and are trying it on. Most people will never have seen a search warrant before, how should a layperson determine if what they're being shown is a valid search warrant?

[@licencefreetv]

Could you link to these videos, as it may be possible to see the Warrant in the video, or people may know the outcome of the case. In the most famous TVL Warrant video (where TVL and the Police are communicating through a window), the householder was subsequently successfully prosecuted for obstructing the Warrant.

[@BlokeOnAMotorbike]

OK, the irreducible minima for the validity of a warrant are: (a) it must be signed (by a Justice of the Peace, Magistrate, etc); (b) it must be dated; and (c) it must specify the premises accurately and exclusively. Since most warrants expire after a MONTH, any warrant not showing a date following pretty much any investigation will cause any evidence obtained as a result of the execution of that warrant to be called into question. At that point it doesn't matter the nature of that evidence. The warrant should also specify the nature of the evidence to be gathered, in this case being a television receiver in operation and displaying a live broadcast. Most importantly, the warrant should be PRINTED on PAPER with a SIGNATURE, the original COURT SEAL and a readable identifier showing precisely WHO signed the warrant and a hardcopy in the exact same format (signature and all) should be available right there and then for your own records. ANY of these requirements being missing renders the warrant INVALID. (sources: have beaten TVLA in court after they tried to claim a digital copy with no date and no signature on a tablet constituted a valid search warrant, they tried to caution me through a closed door, I finished the caution for them and countersued the individual in his personal capacity for trespass and fraud by misrepresentation. Won.)

[@baileysice2715]

@@BlokeOnAMotorbike what happens if they have a warrant but cannot gain entry ie you're not home?

[@smellyfinger684]

Look at bailiff videos. They ALWAYS claim to have warrants but in 9 out of 10 cases, they don't. These people rely on a lack of knowledge.

[@smellyfinger684]

@@BlokeOnAMotorbike Well done. 👍

[@grahamwhittle6817]

Great video

[@peterfeltham5612]

As usual good advice from BlackBelt Barrister.Top man.

[@IanTdob1966]

A couple of questions 1) if they have a warrant can they force entry ? 2) If they have a warrant and you answer the door via a video door bell and refuse them entry can they force entry ?

[@littlemissy2883]

No, not even a bailiff with a warrant can force entry, they can only enter by peaceful means only, IE, if you leave your door unlocked and they open it they then can walk in

[@MrMaster2k]

@BlackBeltBarrister - I had a situation about 1 1/2 years ago where I moved into a property and within a couple of months there was a bailiff and another plain clothed person claiming to be from the council who knocked on my door looking for the previous tenant. I told them I was not that person and was willing to show them evidence that I was not that person, closed the door and went to get my evidence. I was in my underwear at that time and they entered the premises without my consent and kept the door open exposing me to the communal hallway during the whole interaction. I requested they exit multiple times which they refused to do so until I provided them the evidence that I was not the person they were looking for. Afterwards, they explained to me that they could legally enter as when I shut the door while they were in the hallway I did not lock it. Do I have any grounds here or were they right?

[@BlokeOnAMotorbike]

did you specifically tell them to wait in the hall? Whenever someone I don't know knocks on my door and ask me something I need to go in for, I put the chain on. That's as good as saying "no, you can't come in", as good as a locked door, and them forcing their way through constitutes aggravated B&E at which point the gloves are OFF.

[@MrMaster2k]

@@BlokeOnAMotorbike I did not, however i also did not invite them in. Being in my underwear at the time who would invite someone inside their place they didn’t know?

[@happyjonn9242]

were you wearing Spiderman y-fronts?

[@cromwellsghost3434]

I knocked the TV license on head online 2 years ago, and they just sent a letter asking us to renew that declaration. That’s it…..

[@Gryffster]

It's an obligation you don't have and just makes it easier for them.

[@cromwellsghost3434]

@@Gryffster We have not had one visit, or other kind of letter, my cousin in the same town also did the same, she did it 3 years ago. Online, no hassle.

[@Gryffster]

@@cromwellsghost3434 But given you don't need to do it, why do it?

[@greenpedal370]

You best video to date.

[@steverobbins4274]

I have an interesting one for you. Recently my ISP sold my custom to a different ISP. I was out of contract at the time. Being out of contract my old ISP increased my monthly fee by a significant amount. Forcing me to agree a new contract. This is after they sold my custom without my agreement to the new ISP. Given that i signed with my old ISP as my preferred provider and chose not to sign with the new ISP and I have since been transferred to the new ISP, where would someone in a similar position stand?

[@smellyfinger684]

This is a tricky one. A similar thing happened to me with my gas supplier and it turned out I had a clause in my contract that allowed them to do this. The fact you were out of contract is interesting, however, if you have signed a contract with your new ISP that might be a bitch to fight. I'd recommend contacting Ofcom to see where you stand.

[@JasperJanssen]

You are free to end your contract at any time, under those circumstances. You have no right whatsoever to force them to continue supplying a service at a given price. You don’t even have that right while under contract, let alone outside it.

[@majordelays4909]

If they manage to get a warrant, can you force them to remove outdoor footwear For hygiene ( we don’t wear shoes around carpets ever )

[@juyhfrty]

Police officers (who may be accompanying) are not allowed to remove footwear and will walk on your cream carpets. As to Capita employees, thats a tricky one

[@mda5003]

@@juyhfrty I would think you could because they are civilians (i.e. salespeople) and as a house owner you can impose your own reasonable restrictions.

[@marklittler784]

I think you have a duty of care to have a front door mat fit for purpose.

[@majordelays4909]

@@marklittler784 or better still why not lay down and let them wipe their boots on you.

[@marklittler784]

Most muck goes on the carpet near the door by the time your a few steps in the mucks off, far less likely to get food contaminated dropped on carpet than tiles wooden floor or linoleum apparently.

[@24865943]

Through for all of your time 👍

[@JoannaHammond]

The no declaration works great if you are in an up-market area, if not it means nothing.