What is the difference between scrap and salvage?

Scrap normally means an end-of-life vehicle intended for destruction. Salvage describes a damaged or unwanted vehicle that may still have reusable parts or repair potential.

Scrap normally means an end-of-life vehicle intended for destruction. Salvage describes a damaged or unwanted vehicle that may still have reusable parts or repair potential.

What to consider

Insurance categories also matter: A and B vehicles cannot return to the road as complete vehicles, while S and N vehicles can be repaired if made roadworthy.

GOV.UK insurance write-off guidance.

Legal Context

Ask whether an offer is for complete destruction, parts salvage or possible repair. A Certificate of Destruction applies only to an eligible vehicle that is destroyed.

Quick Step-by-Step Summary

  1. Check the vehicle condition
  2. Confirm any insurance category
  3. Ask what the buyer intends
  4. Complete the correct transfer
  5. Keep any destruction record

Sources & References

  • GOV.UK insurance write-off guidance

Helpful External Links

  • https://www.gov.uk/scrapped-and-written-off-vehicles/insurance-writeoffs

Put the answer into practice

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