Thousands of people across the country have faced prosecution for dodging the TV Licence fee, with TV Licensing emphasising it operates a "fleet of vans equipped with advanced detection tools".
TV Licensing adds: "These can identify TV receiving equipment at targeted addresses within minutes."
The organisation also has a database of 31 million both licensed and unlicensed properties, with enforcement officers given access to this information.
During the 12-month period ending June 2024, some 25,673 individuals were prosecuted for evading the TV licence charge.
Anyone discovered viewing, recording or downloading content unlawfully faces a £1,000 fine and potential legal proceedings. A TV Licence is required to watch or record live TV on any channel or service, as well as to access BBC iPlayer.
For example, you require a TV Licence to watch something being transmitted live on Netflix or Amazon Prime, but for on demand programmes on these services, a TV Licence is not necessary.
A standard colour TV Licence currently costs £180 annually.
A TV Licence officer may call at your property if TV Licensing has no record of a licence at your address, and the organisation hasn't received a response to previous correspondence.
"We need to check if you've been watching, recording or downloading TV without a licence."
TV Licensing explains: "Our officer will tell you why they're visiting. They'll be polite, considerate and fair. And they'll follow our code of conduct. If you allow them into your home, the visit is normally very quick."
Officers will inspect whether any television equipment has been installed or is in use. Anyone suspected of operating TV equipment without a valid licence may be cautioned and questioned.
TV Licensing adds: "They'll take notes of what's been said and ask for your signature to confirm their notes are accurate. [The officer will also] make sure you understand what may happen if you watch or record live TV, or watch BBC iPlayer, without a TV Licence.
"Officers wear a body camera to help keep them safe. And to deter any abuse towards them."
