Entry and Inspection for Product Safety

Consumer Protection Act 1987, s.29

Warrant: No
Force: No
Notice: No

An enforcement authority officer may enter any premises (other than premises used only as a dwelling) at any reasonable hour for the purpose of ascertaining whether any safety provision made under the Consumer Protection Act 1987 has been contravened. The officer may inspect goods, require production of records, seize and detain goods which contravene safety provisions, and purchase goods for testing. This power supports product safety enforcement across England and Wales.

Conditions

The officer must be authorised by the enforcement authority (usually trading standards)
Entry must be at any reasonable hour
A warrant from a justice of the peace is required if entry is refused or the premises are a dwelling

Limitations

Does not authorise entry to premises used only as a dwelling without a warrant
Seized goods must be dealt with in accordance with statutory procedures
The enforcement authority must give notice of test results where goods are purchased for testing

Last updated 24 September 2026