The legal implications surrounding the process of scrapping a vehicle can be quite extensive however many of the countries top scrap yards will lead you through the process and give you the documents that you need.
note:Failure to follow the relevant measures can result in a person being liable for the future uses and activities of a vehicle. It is strongly recommended that you consider the following before you have your vehicle taken away.
Upon your decision to scrap your vehicle you need to consider the facility you wish to use and the circumstances surrounding your vehicle destruction. You can find all the UK’s authorised treatment facilities at the link listed below:
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/regulation/65470.aspx/
The key document that is required when scrapping your vehicle is called a Certificate Of Destruction. This document is usually provided by your scrap yard and you should ensure you receive it before you let a company take your vehicle away.
This document proves that you have authorised the vehicle for destruction. Most companies will also inform the DVLA that transfer of vehicle ownership has taken place. As a precautionary measure we suggest that you call the DVLA to check that they ownership has been transferred. This is extremely important as if a vehicle is still registered in your name then you are still liable for the use and actions of the vehicle.
If your vehicle is being taken away but not being destroyed then you should fill out a V5C/3 section of your vehicle registration certificate to inform the authorities that a sale or transfer of a vehicle has taken place. Again this should be sent to DVLA.
If you are involved in an accident and find that the repair costs equate to more than the value of the vehicle then scrapping it becomes a very viable option. This option gives people the opportunity to make money on their old vehicles. Although this has become a popular option there are some legal implications to consider.
You must not only tell the DVLA but also inform your insurance company.
You should also consider personalised license plates and log books. If you have a personalised license plate that you wish to retain then you must transfer ownership of that from the vehicle being destructed. Filling out the relevant sections in your log book and handing that over to the salvage company is essential.
In conclusion it is recommended that you log all activities and keep paper based records of everything. Chose your salvage company carefully.