If you’ve decided to scrap your van, you might wonder whether you need to provide the logbook. Many people misplace this document, especially if they haven’t used the vehicle for a long time. But before you search your entire house trying to locate it, there are few things you should know.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly what a logbook is and whether you require it to scrap your van. Plus, we’ll tell you what you can do if you can’t locate your logbook.
What Is a Logbook?
A logbook is a paper document issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to the registered keeper. The document contains all information regarding the vehicle. Typically, it’s used to inform the DVLA about any changes regarding ownership, address, name, etc. The logbook (also called V5C) is also used if a vehicle is modified, scrapped, or written off.
A logbook contains detailed information about the vehicle: make, model, engine, fuel type, chassis number, etc.
It’s important to emphasize that, per the DVLA guidelines, a logbook doesn’t prove ownership. The name on the logbook indicates who’s responsible for vehicle registration and taxes but not who’s the legal owner.
What Are Logbooks Used For?
Vehicle logbooks document every change that happens to the vehicle. For example, if a car has been repainted, it needs to be stated in the logbook. This is especially important if you’re buying/selling a vehicle. Since the logbook is essentially an ongoing definition of a vehicle, it’s an essential document for changing ownership.
If you’re a seller, a proper logbook is a form of a guarantee to the buyer that you took good care of the vehicle. You need to update the document to avoid any legal issues in the future and prove you’re authorized to sell the vehicle. If you’re a buyer, a logbook will give you insight into the vehicle’s condition. You can compare the information from the logbook and the vehicle’s actual condition to establish any discrepancies. If that’s the case, the seller may be trying to trick you, or they haven’t updated the logbook.
It’s important to know that failing to update your logbook is punishable by law. You could face fines of up to £1,000 if it’s found that you are keeping an outdated logbook.
Why Are Logbooks Important for Scrapping Your Vehicle?
When buying a vehicle, you’ll want to know how many people owned it before you, along with detailed information about its condition. However, when you’re scrapping your car, you’re not selling it to someone who will drive it as a reliable vehicle. Essentially, you’re selling it for parts. Hence, the information from the logbook isn’t really important – the vehicle isn’t useful anymore.
In the past, most scrap dealers needed the vehicle logbook because that was the only way to inform the DVLA about the ownership change. By simply filling out the designated section of your logbook, you can notify the DVLA that a scrap dealer is now taking charge of the vehicle.
Nowadays, that isn’t the case. According to the law, you can scrap your van without a logbook. Only this makes the process slightly more complicated.
How Do I Scrap My Van Without a Logbook?
Scraping a van with a logbook is much more convenient. But if you’ve lost yours, it’s perfectly legal to scrap your vehicle, anyway. Here’s a bit more about the process.
The first thing you need to do is find an authorized treatment facility (ATF) for scrapping your vehicle. These companies do business according to specific regulations and laws. Turning to an unauthorized facility is illegal and could result in fines. Plus, you’ll be at risk of fraud.
If your vehicle doesn’t have an MOT or insurance, it’s not roadworthy. This means it’s illegal to drive it to the scrapyard. Instead, you’ll need to contact the ATF to collect your vehicle. Most reputable ATFs will be happy to arrange the collection to fit your schedule.
Once you’ve scrapped your car, you should inform the DVLA about it. Those with a logbook can complete the process online. If you don’t have it, you’ll need to send a letter. Here’s what it should include: Vehicle registration number, make and model, date of sale, and name and address of the scrapyard. Send the letter to this address: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BD.
An ATF should give you a Certificate of Destruction for scrap or end of life vehicles. This essential document proves the facility has scrapped your vehicle instead of repairing and selling it. Keep in mind the ATF is only the mediator in the process. The DVLA issues the Certificate of Destruction. Once you receive it, you’ll confirm your vehicle was destroyed, and you’re no longer the registered keeper. If your car will be repaired and sold, you won’t receive this certification.
Can I Get a New Logbook?
If you consider this process too complicated and want to complete it by filling out the V5C document, there’s another option: Replacing your logbook.
You can get a duplicate logbook online if there haven’t been any changes regarding your address or the vehicle. Keep in mind that you have to be the vehicle’s registered keeper to obtain the duplicate logbook. To complete the process, you’ll need to enter the registration number of the vehicle, the VIN (chassis) number, and your name and postcode (if you’re the registered keeper). You should receive the duplicate logbook within five working days. The process costs £25, and you can pay by credit or debit card.
If you aren’t eligible for getting a new logbook online, you can always do it by post. Firstly, you’ll need to fill out this application (form V62). Then, you’ll need to send it to this address: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DD. Besides the application, you’ll need to send a cheque or a postal order for £25. Typically, it takes around six weeks before the new logbook reaches you.
Scrap Your Van Even if You Don’t Have a Logbook
Although it’s good to have the logbook, it isn’t necessary for scrapping your van. If you lost it and want to scrap your vehicle, don’t forget to mention that to the ATF. Transparency in communication is crucial for completing the process quickly. A reputable ATF will give you the necessary information and explain your options if you don’t have the logbook.
