UK insurance write-off categories explained

What a write-off is

A write-off is when an insurer decides a damaged vehicle isn't worth repairing and pays out instead. The category records how bad the damage was at the time. It says nothing about how well it's been fixed since.

Current categories are A, B, S and N. Older records may use the old letters (C and D). Don't just swap an old letter for a new one. Ask for the history and the repair paperwork.

Cat A and Cat B

Cat A has to be crushed completely. Cat B can be stripped for parts, but the body shell or frame has to be crushed. Neither one can legally go back on the road, so if one's advertised as road-ready, walk away.

Cat S: structural damage

Cat S means the frame, chassis or structure was damaged. It can go back on the road once it's been repaired to a roadworthy standard. The category won't tell you what was damaged or how good the repair is.

Ask for photos from before the repair, the invoices, and who did the work. Get an inspection from someone who knows structural repairs. Price it against the same vehicle without a write-off record, and remember it'll be worth less when you sell it too.

Cat N: non-structural damage

Cat N means the structure wasn't damaged. That doesn't mean it was only cosmetic. Brakes, steering, electrics or suspension can still have been hit.

It still has to be repaired properly before it goes back on the road. Find out what was damaged and what was replaced, and check nothing's been left unfixed. Get an insurance quote before you commit.

What to check

A full report shows a recorded write-off. It can't judge the repair or prove there's never been damage that went unreported. A fresh MOT doesn't mean the repair is any good. If the seller can't explain the history, don't buy it.

• Category and date of loss confirmed.
• Pre-repair photos and invoices seen.
• Independent inspection booked.
• Insurance quote obtained.
• Clear report not treated as proof of condition.