Why do I need a utility bill or proof of address?
At Car.co.uk, we’re often asked: “What kind of documents do you need to scrap a car?” – and while the V5C document is an important part of keeping DVLA records up to date; it’s also essential that you can provide proof of your address.
Here, we’ll explain exactly why you need to provide your address – and which documents you can use to do so.
The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013
In 2013, the government revised the law surrounding the handling of scrap metal. As well as outlining the requirement for scrap yards to hold the relevant licence to carry on business as a scrap metal dealer, the act also detailed specific requirements relating to the collection of scrap metal.
Section 11 of the act relates to verification of the scrap metal supplier’s identity – and in the case of scrapping a car, this would be you or the person you’ve nominated to be with your car when it’s collected.
For the scrap metal dealer, failure to obtain this proof of address could result in a fine of up to £1,000 – and repeat offences could lead to their licence to trade as a scrap metal dealer being taken away.
Protecting you
Although some scrap car services consider the requirement for a customer to provide proof of identity or address an inconvenience – we think it’s an important part of making sure you’re protected when you scrap your car.
At Car.co.uk, we only deal with government accredited Authorised Treatment Facilities – so you can be sure that you’ll get the best price for your car and feel confident that all the paperwork is handled correctly. Dealing with authorised facilities protects you from facing any problems that could arise if your car isn’t appropriately processed by the scrap yard who collects it.
With the correct paper trail in place, you can be sure that there’s a record of who scrapped your car, who handed it over, how much was paid – and to whom that money was paid.
How to prove your address
The person collecting your car will need to see one of the following documents to be able to accept your scrap car.
• A bank or building society statement
• A credit or debit card statement
• A council tax statement
• A utility bill – gas, electricity or water bills are ideal
It’s also important to ensure that the bill is dated within the last 3 months – so our collection partner knows they’re working with the most up to date information.
Don’t worry – the person who collects your car won’t need to take your proof of address documents away with them, they’ll simply need to see them – or take a scanned/digital copy.
