WOF Requirements When Selling a Vehicle

10 years ago

There has recently been some media coverage regarding sale of vehicles without a current warrant of fitness (WoF).    Here's a summary of the law as it currently stands:

When selling a light vehicle that requires a WoF

The person who sells the vehicle must ensure that it has a current WoF issued no more than 1 month before the delivery of the vehicle to the purchaser, unless they receive written confirmation from the purchaser that:

• if the WoF is current, they accept that the WoF was issued 1 month or more previous, or
• if the WoF is not current, they will not operate the vehicle except for the purpose of obtaining a WoF.

When selling a heavy vehicle that requires a WoF (eg a forklift over 3500kg)

The person who sells the vehicle must ensure it has a current WoF at the time of sale, unless they receive a written confirmation from the purchaser that they will not operate the vehicle except for the purpose of obtaining a WoF.

When selling a heavy vehicle that requires a certificate of fitness (CoF)

The person who sells the vehicle must ensure it has a current CoF or temporary permit at the time of sale, unless they receive a written confirmation from the purchaser that they will not operate the vehicle except for the purpose of obtaining a CoF.

Note: stating 'as is, where is' will not meet these requirements

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