Insignificant Levy - Sometimes Called a "Doormat" Levy

An insignificant levy - also called a doormat levy - is a practice by which bailiffs levy on goods of negligible value, such as a doormat or similar items.

It is considered a form of abuse of process, because it is a levy upon property which, in the opinion of a reasonably prudent person, does not satisfy the debt, interest, and costs.

Further reference to this practice can be found on page 6 of 11 in the Local Government Ombudsman report dated 29 November 2012.

This conduct can amount to wrongful distress. Claims for wrongful distress must be made against the creditor (e.g., the council) and the bailiff who acted as the enforcement agent. This principle is affirmed in Preston v Peeke [1895] EB&E 336.