Step 1 - Get A Quote
Step 2 - Get Your Cover
Step 3 - Recover Your Car
Step 4 - Drive Away
Which Type of Vehicle do you need to insure
Why Do Vehicles Get Impounded in the UK?
There are several legal reasons why your vehicle could be impounded by the police, DVLA, or other authorities. Some of the most common reasons include:
-
Driving without insurance
-
Failure to pay road tax
-
Parking on private land without a SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)
-
Dangerous or careless driving
-
Driving without a valid or revoked driving licence
-
Illegal or dangerous parking
Understanding why your vehicle was impounded can help you prevent future issues and take action quickly.
Does Standard Car Insurance Cover Impound Retrieval?
In most cases, standard car insurance does not cover the cost of retrieving your vehicle from an impound. To get your vehicle released, you’ll need to obtain a specialist impound insurance policy that specifically covers impounded vehicle retrieval.
What is Impound Vehicle Insurance?
Impound vehicle insurance is a specialized type of coverage that allows you to release your vehicle from the impound yard. To reclaim your vehicle, the insurer will usually require proof that your vehicle is insured for a minimum of 30 days before it can be released.
How Much Does It Cost to Retrieve a Car from an Impound in the UK?
he cost to release your vehicle from an impound can vary, but typically includes the following charges:
- Fine for impound release: Between £100 and £200, if paid within 24 hours
- Storage fees: If you don’t retrieve your vehicle within the required timeframe, extra fees are charged for storage.
Note: If you do not collect your vehicle from the impound, it may eventually be destroyed or sold.
To find out where your vehicle is being held, you can contact:
- 101 (for police-related impounds)
- NSL (for DVLA or vehicle tax-related impounds)
How to Retrieve Your Vehicle from an Impound
Once your vehicle is ready for collection, you’ll receive a notice letter with instructions on where to pick up your vehicle. You’ll generally need to provide the following documents:
If you’re unsure about what documents are required, it’s best to contact the impound facility directly before heading over.
Proof of valid insurance
Driving licence
Logbook & valid MOT
Can Someone Else Collect My Impounded Vehicle on My Behalf?
Yes, if you cannot retrieve your impounded vehicle, you can designate another person to collect it for you. The individual must provide:
-
A signed authority letter from you, granting them permission to collect the vehicle
-
A copy of your identification (passport or driving licence) to verify the letter’s authenticity
-
A valid certificate of insurance confirming the collector is covered to drive the vehicle
Get Impound Vehicle Insurance with our partners
Retrieving your vehicle from an impound can be stressful, but with the right insurance, you can minimize the hassle. Our Partners offers temporary impound vehicle insurance that covers the following:
-
Instant cover available over the phone (for the policyholder only)
-
Minimum 30 days of coverage
-
Coverage for drivers aged 21-68
-
Drivers with motoring and non-motoring convictions are also covered
How to Get a Quote for Impound Vehicle Insurance
To get a quote for impound vehicle insurance or for more information, contact us today. We work with leading insurance specialists to provide you with the best coverage for releasing your vehicle from the impound yard.
For official information on vehicle impounds, you can also visit the UK Government website.
Need Assistance? Contact Us Today!
If you need more help or have any questions regarding impound vehicle insurance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’ll assist you in getting back on the road with minimal hassle.
