Comparing damaged-car offers: deductions and conditions

Identify what the number actually represents

Ask whether each figure is an initial estimate, an inspection-dependent offer or a final agreed amount. Record the date, expiry and vehicle description used. A quote based on starts and drives is not comparable with one based on a non-runner if the car’s status is unknown. Correct the description before comparing amounts rather than adjusting the result yourself.

Keep the name of the contracting buyer separate from the name of a website, collection contact or advertising platform. Ask who will inspect the car, who can change the amount and what happens if you decline a revised offer. A promise of no deductions needs a clear scope; it should not be interpreted as proof that every condition has already been checked.

• Record inspection assumptions and expiry.
• Ask who pays transport if the sale does not proceed.
• Keep written confirmation of the final agreement.

Turn costs into explicit entries

Ask about transport, administration and any payment-related charge rather than assuming they are included. Record whether a charge is deducted from the offered amount or paid separately. Put each cost in the comparison once. When a fee is unknown, leave the entry unknown and ask a question; entering zero creates certainty that you do not have.

For a purely fictional illustration, an entered offer of £900 less £125 of agreed deductions gives £775. Those numbers are invented arithmetic, not typical fees, a quote or a damaged-car valuation. The website worksheet performs only that subtraction using figures you supply. It does not estimate repair costs, work out tax or subtract finance automatically.

Compare timing and practical conditions too

Write down when payment is due, how it is made and when the car and keys are released. A collection appointment is not evidence of payment. Confirm arrangements directly with the actual buyer and verify funds through your own banking channel rather than relying on a message or screenshot. Do not enter bank details in the local worksheet or downloadable brief.

Transport can affect whether an apparent offer is practical. Tell the buyer about a locked steering position, missing keys, missing wheels or restricted access if known. Let the transporter assess equipment and loading needs. Do not arrange a drive to an inspection on the assumption that a running engine proves the car is safe or legally usable.

Keep other balances separate

Outstanding finance may change who can authorise a sale and how money is distributed. Obtain current information from the lender before committing, rather than treating an estimated balance as a confirmed settlement. Where tax treatment matters, use the same stated basis for both offers and seek appropriate advice. A subtraction worksheet cannot resolve different contractual or tax assumptions.

Finally, record unanswered questions next to the net figure. The best next step may be clarification rather than accepting either offer. Once a real sale occurs, use the official DVLA instructions for the relevant transfer. If the vehicle is being scrapped instead, follow the authorised-treatment and notification route. This preparation site cannot carry out either transaction or certify a buyer’s conduct.