In one of our latest posts, we talked a little about the consequences of working with dodgy dealers. Of which there are a surprising number doing the rounds up and down the UK right now.
So for this post, we thought we’d focus on a few simple tips and tactics for avoiding scam artists at all costs. The good news being that with just a shred of common sense and productivity, it really couldn’t be easier to do!
Do Your Research
For example, it’s always a good idea to do at least a little homework when working with any business like this for the first time. Simply by carrying out a quick online search, you should be able to find what past and present customers have to say about them. Not only this, but the way they present themselves as far as their website goes should also tell you a lot about the way they do business. If you come across anything that gives you the impression of anything untoward, you might want to look elsewhere.
Go With Your Gut
Sometimes, you find yourself feeling there’s something dodgy going on, without quite being able to put your finger on what or why. As far as we’re concerned, the simple answer is to go with your gut. There’s nothing to lose by playing it safe and heading elsewhere – there could be plenty to lose if you fall foul of a dodgy deal.
Costs and Commissions
As we’ve mentioned numerous times before, there is really no excuse whatsoever for being charged so much as a penny for any of the services provided. Nevertheless, quite a few dodgy dealers throw ‘stealth’ charges into the mix. They’ll tell you that this particular model year is problematic, add some kind of bogus administration fee into the deal and basically do anything they can to part you with your cash. The moment any kind of cost comes into the equation, make your exit.
Get A Certificate Of Destruction
If you do not receive a certificate of destruction, you have yourself confirmation of a rogue trader. This is basically the certificate that shows you have legally relinquished all responsibility for the vehicle. Which in turn means that no matter what happens thereafter, you won’t be blamed. In many instances, scam artists provide phoney paperwork with some kind of made-up name similar to this. However, if it isn’t an official certificate of destruction you are promised, you’re probably better off elsewhere.
Cash in Hand
Last but not least, it is comprehensively illegal for any scrap car dealer of any kind to offer cash payments for cars, with no official paperwork involved. Just as would be the case when anything is bought and sold legally in any store or business, official records of the transaction are a legal requirement. The unfortunate reality being that cash in hand payments are offered for one reason alone – to keep whatever’s happening outside the law.
For more information or to discuss responsible car scrapping and recycling, get in touch with the Take My Scrap Car customer service team today.
