Can the repo man come onto your property to take your car?

You and your car may have a strong relationship. Some people think that having such an attachment to an inanimate object is unnecessary, but your vehicle may hold a special place in your heart due to the memories created with it. Your car could give you a feeling of accomplishment because you bought it on your own, or maybe you took it on an adventurous road trip you hope to always remember.

Of course, your affection for your vehicle does not pay the bills. As a result, no matter how much you love your car, if you fall behind on payments, you may be in default on your loan. This could lead to repossession of your beloved car, truck or SUV. You may wonder if hiding your car will save it from repossession.

Your property

Even if you keep your vehicle on your personal property, a creditor can come onto your property in order to repossess it. Your vehicle does not necessarily have to be in plain site either. If you park your car behind your house or attempt to hide it outside in a less visible area on your property, the repo man can simply walk onto your property and take it.

The only limitation is that he (or she) cannot “breach the peace” in order to remove it. Breaching the peace includes using force to gain access. For example, if a repossession enforcer breaks a lock in order to reach your vehicle, that could constitute breaching the peace.

Public property

People who work in the repossession profession generally have resilient and determined attitudes. As a result, they may go to considerable lengths to repossess vehicles. They will watch your house or your relatives’ houses. They will follow you to work or to the store. They can repossess your vehicle on just about any public property. If you park your car even for just a minute or two, your car could get repossessed.

Stop repossession

Don’t try to avoid the repo man by only going out at night or by hiding your vehicle. There are steps you can take to stop repossession of your car. Filing for bankruptcy can stop repossession, and it may help you keep your car for as long as you want it. However, you must file before creditors take your vehicle, or you may not get it back.