What the rules say
GOV.UK says a vehicle must be scrapped at an authorised treatment facility and that it is illegal to scrap it anywhere else. The ATF must give you a Certificate of Destruction within 7 days for a car or light van, as proof you handed the vehicle over for scrap.
It is also illegal to be paid in cash for a vehicle scrapped in England or Wales. Payment must be by bank transfer or cheque. That follows the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, which stops scrap metal dealers paying in cash.
Five checks before you hand over the car
1. Ask for the yard's ATF permit number and look it up on the Environment Agency public register. A genuine ATF gives it straight away.
2. Confirm the yard will give you a Certificate of Destruction, and within 7 days.
3. Confirm payment is by bank transfer or cheque, never cash.
4. Check the yard's address and that the car is going to the permitted site, not to a dealer who resells it.
5. Get the price in writing (or on screen) for the condition you described, and note the date and time of collection.
Red flags
A buyer who offers cash, cannot give a permit number, calls the document a 'certificate of disposal', asks you to sign over the V5C without naming the yard, or turns up with a different price from the one quoted. A high offer from a buyer who cannot issue a Certificate of Destruction is not a better deal.
What happens if you use an unauthorised dealer
GOV.UK warns that without a Certificate of Destruction you can still face traffic offence penalties and vehicle tax liability for a car that has left your possession. You may also stay the recorded keeper of a car that could be resold or abandoned.
Our details
Brasenoze is a licensed ATF at 14 Brasenose Road, Bootle, L20 8HG: permit JP3129MP. We pay by bank transfer.
Frequently asked questions
Is it illegal to be paid cash for a scrap car?
Yes. GOV.UK says it is illegal to be paid in cash if your vehicle is scrapped in England or Wales. Payment must be by bank transfer or cheque.
Can I scrap my car anywhere?
No. GOV.UK says it is illegal to scrap your vehicle anywhere other than an authorised treatment facility (ATF).
How do I check an ATF permit?
Search the permit number on the Environment Agency public register. A genuine ATF will give you the number when you ask.
How soon must I get a Certificate of Destruction?
GOV.UK says the ATF must give it to you within 7 days for a car or light van.
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