⚖️ Is It Legal to Recover Stolen Bikes?

Short answer: Yes. But it’s important to understand how it’s done and what we avoid to stay within the law.

Let’s break down how BackPedal safely and legally recovers stolen bikes—without crossing any red lines.

🧠 First: Let’s Use Some Common Sense

Our approach is grounded in simple human interaction and logic. In most cases, a calm conversation and a bit of evidence go a long way.

🙋 You can just talk to people

Most recoveries are low-conflict. Thieves often walk away or say, “That’s not mine,” once they know they’ve been caught.

🚪 You can just go places

There’s no law against standing in a hallway, knocking on a door, or walking through an open car park. Our agents are detectives at heart and love exploring a new area.

👮 We’re not the police

We can’t arrest anyone, enter locked private spaces without permission, or use force. If a recovery needs escalation, we call the police and provide evidence to support lawful access.

✋ We never use physical confrontation

All agents follow a strict Code of Conduct:

  • No force

  • No threats

  • Professional at all times

  • De-escalate, don’t engage

📜 What Does UK Law Say?

🚷 Trespass and Aggravated Trespass

  • Entering private land (e.g. driveway, private path) isn’t a criminal offence—it’s a civil matter, unless accompanied by threats or damage.

  • Aggravated trespass only applies if someone disrupts lawful activity with intent to intimidate or obstruct. That’s not us.

🔐 Entering Locked Areas (e.g. garages, sheds, flats)

  • Agents don’t enter locked spaces without consent or a police escort.

  • If a tracker pings from a specific outbuilding, we notify the police and work with them to gain legal access.

🎥 Do You Use Body Cams?

Yes. All agents wear body cameras during recoveries. This provides:

  • Transparency and accountability

  • Protection for agents and bystanders

  • Evidence for police or insurance claims if needed

This footage is securely stored and only accessed when necessary.

🛠️ Summary Table

Question

BackPedal Policy

Is it legal to recover bikes?

✅ Yes—when done properly and safely

Do you enter homes/gardens?

❌ Never without permission or police support

Do you confront thieves?

❌ We de-escalate and call police if needed

Do you use drones?

✅ In public/open spaces only

Do agents wear body cams?

✅ Always, for safety and accountability

Can you force entry to garages/sheds?

❌ No—police involvement required

✅ Bottom Line

We operate firmly within the law—and always with respect for people and property. Most recoveries are quick, peaceful, and drama-free. Our job isn’t to chase criminals. It’s to bring bikes home.

Have questions or concerns? Talk to us here. We’re happy to explain how it works in your area.

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BackPedal Ltd is registered in England & Wales, company number 13487789.

Registered office at 86-90 Paul Street, London, England, EC2A 4NE.

Copyright © 2024 BackPedal Ltd.

BackPedal Ltd is registered in England & Wales, company number 13487789.

Registered office at 86-90 Paul Street, London, England, EC2A 4NE.

Copyright © 2024 BackPedal Ltd.

BackPedal Ltd is registered in England & Wales, company number 13487789.

Registered office at 86-90 Paul Street, London, England, EC2A 4NE.

Copyright © 2024 BackPedal Ltd.

BackPedal Ltd is registered in England & Wales, company number 13487789.

Registered office at 86-90 Paul Street, London, England, EC2A 4NE.

Copyright © 2024 BackPedal Ltd.