How to Check If Your Car Is an Insurance Write-Off?

Hoo-hoo! Terry Twoo here, making sure you don’t get caught out with a car that’s been written off without you knowing. Some cars look perfectly fine on the surface, but underneath, they might have a history that could land you in a real flap! That’s why checking for an insurance write-off before you buy is one of the wisest moves you can make.

What Is an Insurance Write-Off?

When a car is damaged, the insurance company decides whether it’s worth repairing. If fixing it costs more than the car’s value, they write it off. But not all write-offs are the same. Here’s what the categories mean:

Insurance Write-Off Categories

• Category A: Completely beyond repair. The whole car must be scrapped—no parts can be reused.
• Category B: The car itself can’t go back on the road, but some parts might be salvaged.
• Category S: Structural damage that can be repaired, but the car must be properly inspected before being driven.
• Category N: Non-structural damage, often cosmetic or electrical. These cars can be safely repaired and used again.

Why Checking for a Write-Off Matters

Hoo wouldn’t want to know if their car had been in a major accident? Here’s why a write-off check is essential:

1. Safety First

Even if a car looks good, write-offs—especially Category S—might have hidden structural damage. That could make them unsafe in future accidents. Before buying, always run a write-off check to be sure.

2. Insurance Costs

Some insurers won’t cover written-off cars, while others charge higher premiums. Checking the car’s history upfront means you won’t get a nasty surprise when trying to insure it.

3. Resale Value

Cars with a write-off history often sell for less. If you ever decide to sell, buyers will likely ask for proof of repairs. Running a full history check now will help you prepare for that conversation.

How to Check If a Car Has Been Written Off

Hoo wants to make checking easy? You do! Here’s how to use Car Owl’s full history check to find out if a car has been written off:

1. Find the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) – You’ll find this on the number plate or registration documents.
2. Visit the write-off check page – Head over and enter the VRN.
3. Get Instant Results – In seconds, you’ll see whether the car has been written off and what category it falls under.
4. Review the Report – Check for structural damage, past insurance claims, and any other red flags.

Other Hidden Issues to Check

A write-off isn’t the only thing you should look out for. Some cars have even more surprises in their history. Here are a few other checks to consider:

• Stolen vehicle check – Make sure the car hasn’t been reported stolen.
• Outstanding finance check – Check if the previous owner still owes money on it.
• Scrapped vehicle check – See if the car was supposed to be off the road for good.
• Imported vehicle check – Find out if the car was originally registered outside the UK.

Common Questions About Insurance Write-Offs

Can I Still Insure a Written-Off Car?

Yes, but not all insurers will cover it, and premiums might be higher. If the car is Category S, you’ll need proof that repairs were done correctly.

What Should I Do If a Car Has Been Written Off?

If the car is Category S or N, ask the seller for repair documents and consider getting a professional inspection. If it's Category A or B, walk away—those cars aren’t roadworthy.

Will a Write-Off Affect My Car’s Value?

Yes, a car with a write-off history will almost always sell for less than an identical one without a damaged past. Be prepared for lower resale value.

Final Thoughts

Hoo wants to make a wise car-buying decision? You do! Checking for a write-off before buying can save you from hidden damage, insurance issues, and unexpected costs. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just making sure your current car is in the clear, running a full history check is always the smart move.

Stay sharp, check before you buy, and drive with confidence.