Ensuring Security and Compliance:

How Chilman Fire and Security Ltd Recovered Overdue Payments

Chilman Fire and Security Ltd is a leading fire safety and security solutions provider based in Kidlington. Founded in 2000 by Mike Chilman, the company has grown from a sole trader operation - selling fire extinguishers out of a van - into a fully accredited fire protection and security business. With offices in Oxford, London and Bristol, Chilman Fire and Security serves businesses and organisations across the South of England, delivering fire alarms, emergency lighting, CCTV, access control and risk assessments.

The challenge
Despite their established reputation and commitment to fire safety compliance, Chilman Fire and Security faced a persistent challenge: multiple unpaid invoices from clients for essential fire protection and security system services.

With 15 separate cases amounting to a total of over £15,000, the overdue payments placed unnecessary strain on the company’s finances. Despite repeated calls, emails and formal letters, many debts remained unpaid for 4-6 months, putting a strain on the company’s cash flow. A structured and strategic debt recovery approach was needed to resolve the issue efficiently.

Our approach
Chilman Fire and Security turned to us for expert debt collection services. Our first step was a comprehensive review of the outstanding invoices, service agreements and communication history with each debtor. This allowed us to identify the best recovery strategy for each case, use a firm but professional approach to secure payments and prioritise client relationships while ensuring swift resolutions

Through persistent follow-ups, direct negotiation and structured repayment plans, we successfully recovered payments for the majority of debts within three months. For more complex cases, we implemented flexible payment arrangements, ensuring full settlement within the year.

Outcome
Our professional debt collection strategy led to the successful recovery of £13,050.26, significantly easing the financial pressure on Chilman Fire and Security. This allowed the company to restore cash flow and financial stability, continue delivering essential fire and security services, and maintain valuable client relationships without unnecessary disputes

This case demonstrates the importance of structured, strategic and flexible debt recovery in the fire safety and security industry. By implementing a tailored approach, we ensured that Chilman Fire and Security could focus on protecting lives and properties - without the burden of unpaid invoices affecting their operations.