Insurers, dealers and auto dismantlers

In the following information, the term 'Assessor' refers to insurers, dealers and auto-dismantlers.

Vehicle damage assessment and notification

  1. Vehicle damage assessed by a competent person

    All damaged vehicle assessments must be conducted by a competent person. See Assessment and notification of written-off vehicles.

  2. If the vehicle is assessed as a write-off, the Assessor must:
    • Notify the Written-off Vehicle Register (WOVR).
      The WOVR is a database maintained by Roads and Maritime Services which contains details of vehicles that have been written-off in NSW.
    • Notifications of all written-off vehicles must be made as soon as possible within seven (7) days of the vehicle being assessed as a write-off and before it's sold or otherwise disposed of.
    • If requested by the registered vehicle operator or owner, the Assessor must issue a Declaration of Vehicle Damage.
    • Attach the label (example below) in a clearly visible position to show that the vehicle cannot be re-registered and is only suitable for spare parts or scrap metal. Labels are available from Roads and Maritime Services (replacing Roads and Traffic Authority) Vehicle Identification Inspection Unit (VIIU) via email at vehicle_examinations@rms.nsw.gov.au.

      WOV logo label
       

    Note: If the vehicle is dismantled, the label must be attached to the area displaying the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 

  3. Assessors must keep documents of a written-off vehicle assessment for seven (7) years, regardless of whether the vehicle is assessed as a write-off.

  4. What support materials are available for Assessors?

    1. Forms - Written-off vehicle register
    2. Assessment and notification of written-off vehicles

 

To ensure you comply with your legal obligations you must refer to the appropriate legislation.

 

Please note:

Vehicles notified to the NSW WOVR will have their registration cancelled upon notification. By law, the vehilce's Compulsory Third Party insurance must continue for an additional four business days from the date of the registration cancellation.

 

Information on the latest laws can be checked by visiting the NSW legislation website (www.legislation.nsw.gov.au).
This publication does not represent a comprehensive statement of the law as it applies to particular problems or to individuals or as a substitute for legal advice.

You should seek independent legal advice if you need assistance on the application of the law to your situation.