Royal Mail has issued a stark warning to dog owners, reminding them that they could face legal action if their dog attacks a postal worker through a letterbox. The warning follows High Court rulings that confirm postal workers are not trespassing when delivering mail, leaving owners criminally liable for any injuries caused.
High Court Ruling Clarifies Liability
On its website, under 'legal protections', Royal Mail states it has secured stronger legal protections against dog attacks. It won two High Court cases that settled the law on criminal liability when postal workers have fingers bitten while posting items through a letterbox. The court held that, provided the worker is posting mail, no trespass is committed, removing a potential defence for homeowners.
Royal Mail explains: "Following changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act in England and Wales that came into force in May 2014, Royal Mail has carried out over 30 private prosecutions against dog owners. This has punished offenders and further raised awareness. It is hoped that these actions will prevent further attacks by forcing owners to put in place control measures to ensure a dog does not attack again."
Call for Protective Measures
Because the postal worker is not trespassing, homeowners cannot use that as a defence. If a dog bites a worker's fingers through the letterbox, the owner can still be held criminally liable. Royal Mail advises dog owners to install a wire letter receptacle or a secure mailbox on the edge of their property to protect both mail and postal workers.
Royal Mail also recommends: ensure your dog is out of the way before the postman or postwoman arrives; place your pet in the back garden or a faraway room; never open the door when your dog is behind you; if you have a back garden, close off access so the dog cannot get around to the front; keep your dog in another room before answering the door to sign for an item; give your dog food or a toy to occupy them while mail is delivered; wait 10 minutes after mail arrival before letting your pet back into the hallway.
Serious Safety Risk
Lizz Lloyd, Health & Safety Director at Royal Mail, said: “Dog attacks remain one of the most significant safety risks faced by postal workers. In many cases, these incidents result in serious injuries, emotional distress, and time away from work. Royal Mail continues to call on the public to be vigilant and responsible by securing their pets before opening the door to receive mail or packages.”
She added: “We continue to invest in safety training and awareness campaigns for both employees and the public, but emphasise that community cooperation is essential to reducing these incidents.” Royal Mail warns that letters and parcels could stop arriving if a home is not deemed safe due to the risk of dog attacks.
