Headshot of Sarah Rayner - Solicitor at Everingham Solomons TamworthKnock Knock,
Who’s there?
The Police.
The Police who…..Oh.

Despite the terrible, knock knock joke above, there are times when the Police are legally allowed to enter your home without an invitation. And sometimes they don’t even knock!

The Legislation that gives Police their power of entry is the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002.

The Legislation allows legal entry to a property in the following circumstances:
1. By invitation.
2. In an emergency.
3. In the event of a breach of the peace.
4. To arrest or detain a person.
5. To exercise a warrant.

By invitation

It is not necessary for more than one occupant to extend an invitation into the house. If one occupant allows entry, and Police suspect that the safety of one occupant is at risk, they are able to stay, despite the lack of invitation from other occupants.

Remember however, if the Police are invited into your home, and they see something illegal, that gives them the power to search the premises. This may lead to further issues for you, so be careful if you extend the invitation.

In an emergency

Police may enter a property if they believe that a person has sustained significant physical injury or there is an immediate risk of significant physical injury. They must only enter if they have reasonable grounds to believe that.

In the event of a breach of the peace

If there is or is likely to be a breach of the peace the Police may enter a Property. They can also enter if it is necessary to end or prevent a breach of the peace.

To arrest or detain a person

Police are allowed to enter a property to carry out an arrest. They can do this with a warrant, or in circumstances where they reasonably believe a person avoiding detainment may be.

To exercise a search or arrest warrant

It should be noted that the Police can carry out a search warrant without you being home, pending the terms of the warrant. This kind of warrant is referred to as a covert warrant, and they must be given the specific covert powers when the warrant is granted.

But unlike those pesky house guests that just won’t leave, the Police are required to only stay as long as is reasonably necessary for them to carry out their specific duties.

Contact Everingham Solomons if you need assistance with the police because Helping You is Our Business.