With the BBC pushing people to buy a TV licence and cracking down on those who are not paying for it, you might be wondering what your rights are if a TV licence inspector comes to your home.
According to the official TV Licensing website, an officer will show their ID card and also give you a number if requested so you can call and confirm the details on their card.
They will be polite and fair and will not use threats or intimidation to get into your property.
An officer will not enter your property unless you have given them explicit permission to.
When can a TV licence inspector enter my property?
However, there is one instance where a TV licence inspector will be able to come into your home without your permission.
If a search warrant has been issued, the TV licence inspector will be able to enter your house.
If they do not have a search warrant, you can ask them to leave.
When it is necessary, an inspector will complete a record of interview and will ask for your signature to confirm their notes are correct.
The person who is interviewed will be told what might happen if they watch or record any live TV or BBC iPlayer without having a TV licence.
A TV licence inspector might use detection equipment if they believe an offence is being carried out at the property.
The website reads: "Officers may interview a person they believe or suspect to have committed an offence under the Communications Act 2003.
"But only after they’ve cautioned them.
"This is in line with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 in England and Wales.
"Or equivalent in other areas."
"An Officer will take the details of the person being interviewed, ask to check the TV receiver and write down everything that’s said under caution.
"The person being interviewed doesn’t have to let the Officer into their property and has the right to remain silent.
"They can ask to speak to a lawyer and can refuse to sign the record of interview.
"They can also ask for changes to be made to it if they disagree with anything before signing."
Do you think it is worth paying for a TV licence, or has it become too expensive? Let us know in the comments.
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