B2B commercial debt collection operates within a regulatory framework that balances creditor rights with fair practice requirements. The regulation is lighter than consumer collection — but it exists, and compliance is non-negotiable.
The Late Payment Directive (2011/7/EU) establishes creditor protections. GDPR governs all data processing in collection activities — debtor information, credit reports, communication records. National laws add layers: Germany's Rechtsdienstleistungsgesetz requires Inkasso agency registration. France mandates specific licensing for collection activities. Nordic countries impose strict credit reporting regulations.
FENCA (Federation of European National Collection Associations) coordinates pan-European standards. National bodies — BDIU in Germany, CSA in the UK, ANCR in France, Svensk Inkasso in Sweden — certify members and enforce codes of conduct. Membership signals professionalism and accountability.
Harassment, deception, and misleading practices are prohibited everywhere. Misrepresenting the legal status of a claim. Contacting third parties about the debt without legal basis. Threatening actions the agency cannot legally take. These prohibitions apply to commercial collection even where specific consumer-style regulation doesn't.
Engaging a regulated, industry-certified agency ensures compliance across jurisdictions. The creditor bears reputational risk if their agency behaves improperly — which is why choosing a professionally regulated agency matters more than choosing the cheapest one.
Our debt recovery agency with over 21 years of experience provides: Business to Business Collections Services, Legal Debt Collections and worldwide Skip Tracing services.
