Required Documents for Reclaiming Your Car from The Pound

First: you need to know exactly why your car was impounded. a visit to https://www.impoundedcar.co.uk/what-happens-when-a-car-is-impounded.html may help if you are not sure!

When you go to the pound to recover your car you should bring with you the required set of documents as mentioned in the notice letter. When you reach the pound, you should submit a proof of identity (passport, ID, driving license or freedom Pass), proof of vehicle ownership (the log book [V5C] or a keeper supplement (V5C/10 and the bill of sale), a valid MOT or proof of MOT appointment and the car's insurance policy.

However, if your car is not insured, you'll have to use a professional recovery operator to pick up your vehicle from the pound. The recovery operator should be insured, trained, equipped and authorized to operate in the police pound. Before entering the pound, the recovery operator must sign a declaration which confirms compliance with the loading and unloading guidelines and submit a set of documents. The required documentation, which must be provided in original copies includes a valid UK/ EU driver's licence, valid certificate of insurance, proof of operator training and licensing.

If the owner doesn't attend the recovery, the operator must have a letter of authority signed by the owner and a copy of the owner's passport/ ID Card.

Fees Linked to Recovering Your Car from The Pound

The fees are set by the government and not by the police. Depending on the reason why your car was impounded, they can start at £150. However, you also need to pay £20 per storage day. You should know that the storage fee is calculated from midday after the date of seizure. You can pay the charges through different payment methods including Visa/Mastercard/Maestro cards, cash (only pound sterling) or Solo cards.

If You Don't Want to Reclaim Your Vehicle

 If you decide not to reclaim your vehicle, you should submit proof of ownership and ID to the pound's officers and settle the disposal charges which can reach around £75. Once you've signed your vehicle's disclaiming agreement, the pound will either destroy your car or sell it at an auction. You'll be freed from any removal and storage fees and will no longer be liable for taxing and insurance of the vehicle.

Wrapping It Up

Although the UK law relating to impounding cars can seem strict, its purpose is to keep you and the community safe. To avoid any unpleasant surprises all you should do is follow the rules. However, if your car gets impounded, you'll need to pay a hefty fine and reclaim it from the pound within the given timeframe.