20/01/2020
Unfortunately, its that time of year again when the van cowboys start to knock on doors and advertise on Facebook, here's what to look out for to stay within the law and Without fines or losses...
DUTY OF CARE, Using a waste company: the law states you may only use registered companies with a top tier waste license. Check the company name against the official list and fill in a waste docket provided by the company.
https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-waste-carriers-brokers-regime?regime=upper-tier
Failure to do so is an offense punishable of an on the spot fine of up to £400 to the householder. If the rubbish is found fly-tipped, the householder then is obligated to pay for the safe disposal of the rubbish. Most fly-tipping cases would be heard at a magistrates' court and you may receive a £5000 fine.
See a YouTube video here for an information video. https://youtu.be/a1X83ka_AqQ?t=44
If you need to move furniture or a full house move service remember, No insurance means no guarantee and no experience! If you fail to use a registered company you have no comeback if your items get lost, stolen or broken.
You are also unlikely to receive ANY compensation if damage is caused to the item, to your house orf injury is caused by negligence. What's worse is that your "van man" may also claim compensation from you if injured by or on your property.
You also have no guarantee that your van man will turn up for your removal.
If he were to get pulled over by the police at the scene of an accident or spot-check, his van may be seized for lack of insurance while your goods are on board or he may choose to drive off and steal everything you own if he feels like it.
https://www.catersnews.com/stories/latest-news/making-off-with-the-goods-removal-company-leaves-family-with-nothing-after-botched-house-move/
If you find a van Cowboy on a facebook group you can tag the advert or page as an illegal or scam activity by using the help center in the top right corner and don't forget to report the post to the admins of the group and stay safe.
If you own a van and fancy making a quick £10 or two picking up and delivering furniture with your personal or business use van... its not worth it to do it illegally...
You must have the correct insurance, licenses and pay tax... if not, You risk an unlimited fine, disqualification from driving and having your van and its contents seized and crushed.
You may also be liable for tax fraud which at the moment carries a massive fine and possibly a prison sentence of up to 7 years.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/publishing-details-of-deliberate-tax-defaulters-pddd/current-list-of-deliberate-tax-defaulters
If you Fly tip you also...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zui63ZQB2nE
