If you're considering buying a second-hand vehicle, it's important to make sure that the car has not been illegally sold after being marked as "scrapped" by the DVLA. This could mean that the car was previously written off or deemed unfit for the road and may pose a potential hazard to the driver and other road users.

Avoid Risks

To avoid any risks, it's best to run an HPI check which provides a comprehensive report on the car's history, including whether it has been scrapped, stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance.

HPI Checks

Several reliable companies offer HPI checks, such as HPI Check, Check Car Details, or Total Car Check. By paying a small fee, you can gain access to detailed information about the car you're considering purchasing. This can help you make an informed decision and avoid any potential problems in the future.

Certificate of Destruction

On the other hand, if you're the owner of a vehicle that you've sent off for scrapping, you may want to ensure that the car has been properly disposed of. The Certificate of Destruction (COD) is issued to the DVLA by the Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), which is responsible for the final processing of the car once it has been fully recycled or destroyed. This document confirms that the car has been scrapped and is no longer in use.

Piece of Mind

While it's not essential to have a copy of the COD, you may want to request one for your own peace of mind. This can be done when you arrange for the collection of your vehicle by a scrap dealer. By completing the relevant section of your V5C document to show that the car has changed ownership, you can ensure that the car is no longer in your name. The scrap dealer will then have the option to either scrap the car or sell it on for salvage.

Summary

It's essential to check whether a car has been previously written off to ensure that it is safe to use on the road. By running an HPI check or requesting a Certificate of Destruction, you can gain the information and reassurance you need to make informed decisions about your car.