Scrap Your Car Responsibly with Benfleet Scrap

Getting rid of an old vehicle can be hassle-free if you scrap it. You can skip the headache of finding a buyer for your used car who may be picky about certain features or meticulous about checking service records. Instead, you can simply hand it over to a scrap dealer who will take it off your hands and recycle it for its purposes.

But you have a few options if you've had your car stolen and it's been sent to a scrapyard without your knowledge. It's a final decision once the car is recycled, so you won't be able to undo the scrapping process. You may have to start looking for a new car. Here’s what you can do if you’re wondering, “Can scrap yards scrap my car without notice or consent?”

Yes, But It’s a Tough Process Now

These days, if someone tries to take away your car without your consent, they will encounter many difficulties. Cash payments are no longer accepted when selling scrap metal, and customers must make payment through a bank transfer or cheque, both of which can be tracked by law enforcement.

The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 was enacted to put an end to the potentially dangerous behaviour of some scrap metal dealers. This legislation created safety protocols and prohibited cash payment for scrap metal. 

To buy scrap metal from a merchant nowadays, customers must present a valid photo ID and proof of their residence. Furthermore, Scrap yards must also provide the V5 registration document if a scrap car is being sold. The registered ATF (Authorised Treatment Facility) keeps this information on record for up to three years, allowing for a traceable system to prevent fraudulent behaviour.

If the person selling the car does not have the registration document or keys for the vehicle, the dealership may run a Hire Purchase Information (HPI) check. This check will cost money and reveal if the car is stolen, has been in an accident, or has any unpaid finance agreements.

Preventive/Protective Measures

Legitimate scrap yards will prioritise safety, transparency, and fairness when scrapping vehicles. All of their sellers must be registered with Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs), so you can be sure that your sale is legitimate and up to the highest standards. They must also have a few other guidelines to ensure the process is as easy and safe as possible for everyone involved.

To begin with, customers must give their verbal consent to go through with the sale legally. All the terms and conditions will be documented as part of the call so we have a record of their agreement. Furthermore, they shouldn’t process the sale or take possession of the vehicle unless they have the V5 registration form, identification, and car keys.

To collect something on behalf of someone else, they’ll need permission from the official owner of the item (which is usually shown on the V5 registration document) and written permission from that owner to proceed.

In a Nutshell

Legitimate scrap yards and scrap dealers will always ask for proper identification of the vehicle and its owner before submitting it for scrap. They will also be registered, perform an HPI, and adhere to all rules stated in the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013. Ask them about these details before moving forward.

Scrap and Recycle Responsibly with Benfleet

Benfleet Scrap Co. Ltd. is a fully licensed scrap yard in Benfleet, Basildon and Thurrock that guarantees the best possible price, convenient and hassle-free service for your old or end-of-life vehicles. Request a scrap car price by visiting our website today!