A sheriff will be sent to the consumer’s house to list all the goods that they own (for example, furniture, kitchen equipment, motor car, etc). These goods, up to the amount owed plus costs, will then be sold on auction unless the consumer has the money demanded, and can pay it all. The sheriff may not attach beds, bedding and clothes.

After the items are sold, and the sheriff is paid, the balance is sent to the creditor. If the sale does not provide enough to cover the debt, and the consumer owns a home, this can also then be sold in execution. If there is a balance still owing after the sale, the creditor can ask the court for an emolument (salary) attachment order as well.