Frequently asked questions
Practical answers to frequently asked questions — covering your rights as a debtor, debtor management, rent claims, debt collection, district court proceedings, and common scenarios for freelancers and SMEs.
FAQ debtors
For anyone who has received a demand letter, formal notice or court document. Six topics: correspondence received, amounts and costs, payment arrangements, court proceedings, enforcement and debt counselling.
- I have received a demand letter — what does this mean?
- Is the claim correct? I don't recognise the amount.
- How do I request a payment arrangement?
- What can and cannot an enforcement officer do?
- … and 26 other questions
FAQ debtor management
For businesses and institutions that proactively manage outstanding receivables. Topics: fundamentals, prevention, invoicing and follow-up, contractual protection, warning signals and outsourcing.
- What is debtor management?
- What is the difference between debtor management and debt collection?
- How do I prevent payment problems before they arise?
- From what invoice size is debtor management worthwhile?
- … and 26 other questions
FAQ collection procedure
For businesses and landlords with an unpaid claim. Six topics: what a collection procedure entails, costs and fees, the out-of-court process, legal steps, the judgment and special situations.
- What is the difference between out-of-court and judicial debt collection?
- When should I engage a collection agency?
- Which collection costs can I pass on to the debtor?
- What happens if the debtor does not respond?
- … and 26 other questions
FAQ rent claims
For landlords dealing with rent arrears or a dispute about payment or termination. Topics: general, demand notices and out-of-court process, court proceedings, eviction, deposit and damages, special situations.
- What is a rent claim?
- Can I as a landlord engage a collection agency for rent arrears?
- Which court handles tenancy disputes?
- How long may rent arrears accumulate before I can take action?
- … and 26 other questions
FAQ district court procedure
For anyone considering proceedings before the district court or who has already received a summons. Six topics: jurisdiction of the district court, court fees, the procedure step by step, default and defence, the judgment and special situations.
- When does the district court have jurisdiction?
- What does a district court procedure cost?
- What is a default judgment and what are the consequences?
- Can I challenge a judgment?
- … and 26 other questions
FAQ freelancers and small businesses
For self-employed professionals and small businesses: unpaid invoices, cost versus return, contracts and prevention, specific scenarios and how the collection process works.
- My client has not paid their invoice. What do I do first?
- Is debt collection worthwhile even for small invoice amounts?
- What if my client disputes the invoice?
- Can I charge statutory commercial interest?
- … and 21 other questions
Do you have a specific question?
The FAQ pages provide general information. For tailored advice — based on your specific file — please get in touch or submit an instruction.