Car Write-Off Categories in the UK:
What Cat S, N, B & A Mean for Drivers

What are car write-off categories?

In the UK, a car is classed as a write-off, or total loss, when it’s too damaged or costly to repair. Insurers then assign a write-off category based on the level and type of damage.

The four main categories are:

Cat A – Irreparable, must be scrapped entirely
Cat B – Severe damage, parts may be salvaged, but the car can’t return to the road
Cat S – Structural damage, repairable with professional work
Cat N – Non-structural damage (e.g. cosmetic or electrical), repairable

This guide explains each write-off category and what it means for your insurance, DVLA responsibilities, and car value.

Insurance Write-Off Categories: Legal and Repairability Matrix

Here’s a quick guide to what each write-off category means for repairability, legality, and insurance:

✳️ Note: Cat A and B vehicles are never legally roadworthy again. Cat S and N may return to the road if repaired and inspected.

What Is a Car Insurance Write-Off?

A car becomes a write-off when the cost to repair it exceeds 50–70% of its value or when it’s no longer safe to drive.

Insurers make this decision using financial thresholds, structural damage assessments, and reports from certified engineers.

If written off, the car is assigned a damage category based on its repairability, road safety, and resale potential.

When Does a Car Get Written Off?

A car is written off when it’s too unsafe to repair or when repairs would cost more than 50–70% of its market value.

These situations typically follow major accidents, floods, fires, or severe mechanical failures.

If repairs aren’t economically viable or the car no longer meets road safety standards, insurers classify it as a total loss.

Who Makes the Decision — Insurer, Engineer, or DVLA?

The insurance provider makes the final call on whether a car is written off.

Their decision is based on a certified engineer’s report, which assesses the vehicle’s damage, safety, and repair costs.

Once the car is written off, the DVLA must be notified, but it doesn’t participate in decision-making.

Is a Write-Off the Same as a Total Loss?

People often use “write-off” and “total loss” interchangeably, but they aren’t identical.

The insurer’s financial verdict is a total loss: the car isn’t worth repairing.

A write-off is a legal status applied after that verdict based on how damaged the car is and what can happen next.

Write-Off vs. Total Loss: Key Differences Explained

A total loss is a cost-based decision. Repairs would exceed the car’s value.

The outcome is a write-off: the car is classified, removed from the road, sold for parts, or scrapped, depending on its category.

Total loss comes first. Write-off is the label that follows.

The 4 UK Insurance Write-Off Categories: Cat A, B, S & N

Insurers classify written-off vehicles into four categories: Cat A, Cat B, Cat S, and Cat N.

Each one reflects how severe the damage is, whether the car can be repaired or reused, and its future use.

Buyer Risk & Resale Impact by Write-Off Category

Detailed Write-Off Category Explanations

🟥 Category A — Scrapped Completely (No Parts Reused)

Cat A car meaning:

A Category A write-off means the car is damaged beyond repair and must be scrapped entirely. No parts can be reused, and the vehicle will never return to the road.

Category A is the most extreme classification. The vehicle must be destroyed at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), with no salvageable components, including the engine, chassis, wheels, or body shell.

🟧 Category B — Parts Salvage Only (No Road Return)

Cat B car meaning:

A Category B car is too damaged to repair safely. Its parts may be salvaged and reused, but the car’s body shell must be scrapped at an ATF and can never return to the road.

Category B applies to cars with severe damage that cannot be repaired for road use. However, some parts, such as seats, electronics, or wheels, may be salvaged if deemed safe. The car’s body shell must be scrapped and can never return to the road.

🟨 Category S — Structurally Damaged But Repairable

Cat S car meaning:

A Category S write-off refers to a car that has sustained structural damage, such as a twisted chassis, damaged suspension, or collapsed crumple zones. It can be professionally repaired and returned to the road, but it must be re-registered with the DVLA before being driven again.

These vehicles require careful inspection and structural restoration by qualified professionals. Once repaired, they are legally roadworthy, but they may carry higher insurance premiums and lower resale value.

✅ Buyers should always request a complete repair history, confirm DVLA status, and ensure repairs meet approved safety standards.

🟨 Category S vs. 🟦 Category N: What Buyers Must Know

Compare the key differences between structural and non-structural write-offs:

🟦 Category N — Non-Structural Damage (Cosmetic or Electrical)

Cat N car meaning:

A Category N write-off has no structural damage, but may include serious non-structural faults, such as issues with steering, brakes, or electronics. Once repaired and roadworthy, it can legally be driven without DVLA re-registration.

Category N vehicles are written off due to cosmetic, electrical, or minor mechanical damage that isn’t economical to repair, especially in older cars with low market value. While these vehicles may appear in good condition, safety-critical components can still be affected.

✅ Buyers should always verify repair quality and check for hidden issues before purchasing a Cat N vehicle.

What Counts as a Car Write-Off?

Insurers write off a car when it’s too costly or unsafe to repair. They base this decision on cost, safety standards, and whether the vehicle can legally and safely return to the road.

When Repair Costs Exceed 50–70% of the Car’s Value

Most insurers use a cost threshold to assess repairs, usually 50% to 70% of the car’s value.
The car is declared a total loss if repair costs exceed this threshold.

Safety Overrides: Why Some Cars Are Written Off Despite Low Repair Costs

Even when repairs are affordable, a car may still be written off if it has critical safety issues.
This includes frame misalignment, airbag system failure, or weakened structural components that reduce crash protection.

Long-Term Safety: When Repair Doesn’t Guarantee Roadworthiness

Sometimes, a car can be repaired, but it’s still written off if future safety isn’t guaranteed.
This applies to vehicles with hidden structural damage or previous crash repairs that weaken the frame.

Is There a Car Write-Off Calculator in the UK?

No official government or insurer-provided calculator will check if your car will be written off.

You can estimate it by comparing your repair quote to the car’s current value, using tools like AutoTrader or CarVeto.

If repairs are close to or above 60–70% of the vehicle’s value, it’s at high risk of being written off.

What Happens After Your Car Is Written Off?

Once your insurer decides the car is a write-off, here’s what typically happens:

1. Valuation assessment:
   Your insurer calculates the car’s current market value and subtracts your policy excess.
2. Ownership transfer or buy-back:
   • For Category A or B, the vehicle is scrapped permanently.
   • For Category S or N, you may repurchase the car. Its salvage value is deducted from your payout.
3. DVLA notification and V5C handover:
   You must notify the DVLA and send your logbook (V5C) to the insurer. Keep the yellow “sold to motor trade” section.
4. Payment process begins:
   Most insurers issue the payout within 2–4 weeks. Disputes or incomplete documentation may cause delays.

The Post-Write-Off Procedure: Step-by-Step Timeline

After confirming a write-off, your insurer issues a written notice and offers a payout.

You may accept the offer, negotiate the value, or request to repurchase the car.

Once agreed upon, the DVLA will update the car’s status. If the car is beyond repair, a Certificate of Destruction is issued.

Can I Keep or Buy Back a Written-Off Car?

Yes, you can usually keep the car if it’s a Category S or N write-off.

You’ll need to repurchase it from your insurer, then arrange repairs and pass an inspection before driving it again.

In most cases, you must also insure the car again before it’s legal to drive.
Some insurers deduct the salvage value from your payout.

DVLA Notification, Logbook Notes & Category Disclosure

The DVLA must be notified when a car is written off.

If it’s a Category S or N, the V5C logbook may show the write-off status.

This becomes part of the vehicle’s permanent history and can affect resale value.

What Is a Certificate of Destruction, and When Is It Issued?

A Certificate of Destruction (CoD) confirms a vehicle has been scrapped and can never return to the road.

It’s issued for Category A and B write-offs by an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).

What If My Car Is Written Off, and It Wasn’t My Fault?

If another driver caused the accident, their insurer is responsible for covering your losses.
You can still face a write-off, but compensation should reflect your car’s pre-accident value.
If you disagree with the offer, you can challenge it or escalate it to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Disputing a Write-Off Valuation: What to Do if You Disagree

You’re not powerless if you believe your insurer has undervalued your car after a write-off decision. Here’s what you can do:

• Gather market evidence: Collect recent MOT certificates, maintenance receipts, and online listings of similar cars (same make, model, mileage).
• Get an independent vehicle assessment: You can hire a certified automotive engineer to issue an unbiased valuation report.
• Formally challenge your insurer: In writing, submit your evidence and valuation to your insurance provider, requesting a payout reassessment.
• Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS): If you’re unsatisfied with your insurer’s response, the FOS can review your complaint and intervene in your favour.

📅 Note: This process can take 2–8 weeks, depending on how quickly you submit documentation and whether the dispute goes to mediation.

Write-Off Valuations, Finance & Disputes

When a car is written off, the insurer calculates a payout based on its value before the accident.

Other factors, like remaining finance or salvage deductions, can also affect the final amount you receive.

How Much Compensation Will I Get from My Insurer?

Your payout is usually based on the car’s market value immediately before the accident.
Insurers look at mileage, condition, service history, and similar vehicles listed for sale.

How Insurance Companies Calculate Payouts

Insurers use trade guides, dealer values, and live sales data to estimate your car’s worth.
They also adjust for condition, mileage, and extras like alloy wheels, infotainment, or safety tech.

What If I Still Owe Finance on a Written-Off Car?

If you still owe finance, you’re responsible for repaying the rest of the loan, even after the car is written off.

In most cases, the insurer pays the lender first. If there’s a shortfall, you’ll need to cover it, unless you have GAP insurance.

Can I Dispute the Valuation or Decision? (With Ombudsman Steps)

Yes, if you think your car was undervalued, you can challenge the decision.

Collect evidence like service records, repair receipts, recent photos, and similar car listings.

If you’re still unhappy with the outcome, escalate the case to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Buying a Written-Off Vehicle: Risks, Benefits & Checkpoints

Buying a written-off car, especially one classified as Category S or N, can save money, but it carries real risks.

Before committing to a purchase, understanding the category, repair quality, and legal status is critical.

Run a CarVeto Car Write-Off Check to examine a vehicle’s write-off history and confirm its status before taking ownership.

Why Do People Buy Category S or N Cars?

Buyers are often drawn to Category S and N cars because they’re significantly cheaper than similar undamaged models.

If the repairs are high-quality, these cars can offer excellent value, especially for budget-conscious drivers or those who need a second car.

However, they can be harder to finance or insure, so checking your options before committing is important.

Are Some Write-Off Categories Better Than Others?

Yes, Category N vehicles usually involve fewer risks than Category S, as they don’t have structural damage.

Category S cars may still be safe, but always confirm structural repairs with a qualified inspector.

Do Write-Offs Lose Value Faster Than Other Cars?

Yes — write-offs depreciate faster than cars with clean histories, even if they’ve been repaired well.

Buyers remain cautious, insurers may raise premiums, and future resale is usually more complicated.

Hidden Risks of Buying a Written-Off Vehicle

Some write-offs conceal deeper issues like frame misalignment, undeployed airbags, or electrical faults.

They’re often missed on test drives, but can compromise safety and durability over time.

In some cases, write-off category data may be incomplete or misreported, so always use a trusted check like CarVeto to verify accuracy.

Checklist: What to Inspect Before You Buy (Legal + Mechanical)

Check the V5C logbook, service history, MOT records, and any receipts for repair work.

Inspect frame alignment, warning lights, airbag systems, and signs of rushed bodywork.
Look closely for mismatched panels or overspray — these can indicate low-quality repairs.

A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended, even if the car seems fine.

Get an Online Car History Check to verify vehicle status instantly.

How to Check If a Car Has Been Written Off Using CarVeto

CarVeto offers a fast, reliable way to check if a car has been written off, using data from the DVLA and leading insurance databases.

If applicable, it shows whether the vehicle was involved in an accident and confirms its write-off category.

What’s Included in a CarVeto Vehicle History Report

A CarVeto report includes data on insurance write-offs, accident damage, mileage discrepancies, MOT history, theft records, and outstanding finance.

It pulls from verified sources like the DVLA, police databases, and financial institutions.

How to Verify Category, VIN Match & Damage Record

CarVeto confirms the write-off category assigned to a car: A, B, S, or N.

It checks that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the V5C logbook and flags any recorded damage from insurers.

This helps detect cloned vehicles or fraud where the identity may have been tampered with.

Run a VIN Code Lookup with a vehicle registration number.

Why a Vehicle History Check Is Crucial Before You Buy

A history check reveals issues that aren’t obvious on a test drive, like structural damage, write-off classification, or unpaid finance.

Without it, you risk buying an unsafe, uninsurable, or far less valuable car than advertised.

It also strengthens your negotiation position by giving you complete visibility into the car’s past.

Check Vehicle Registration Verification now.

Checking DVLA Records for Car Write-Off Status

CarVeto integrates directly with DVLA records to confirm a car’s write-off status, category, and logbook alignment.

This ensures that any insurance write-off is reflected in the official vehicle record.

It also flags gaps in paperwork, which could point to clerical errors or deliberate data hiding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Write-Offs

What happens when a car is written off?

Your insurer declares the car a total loss and offers a payout. Ownership usually transfers to the insurer unless you repurchase the vehicle.

What paperwork do I need if my car is scrapped as a write-off?

You must send the logbook (V5C) to your insurer and keep the yellow trade slip. A Certificate of Destruction is issued for Cat A and B.

Do I need to notify the DVLA after a write-off?

Yes. If your insurer writes off the car, you must inform the DVLA, especially for Cat S or N vehicles. Failing to do so can result in fines.

Can I keep my car after it’s written off?

You can buy back a Cat S or Cat N vehicle. Insurers deduct their salvage value from your payout if you keep it.

How do I re-register a Cat S car with the DVLA?

After repairs, complete a V62 logbook application form and submit it to the DVLA. The car may need a vehicle inspection before you receive a new V5C.

Does a Cat S car need a new MOT after repair?

Yes. A Category S car must pass an MOT to be considered roadworthy again. It should also undergo a structural inspection for added safety assurance.

Can I drive a Category N car?

Yes, once it’s been repaired to a safe, roadworthy standard. No structural damage means no DVLA re-registration is required.

Can a Cat N car be financed?

Some lenders may finance a Category N car, but options are limited. Before approval, lenders usually require proof of repair and a vehicle inspection.

Can I remove a Cat N marker from a car?

No. Once a car is classified as Category N, that status is permanent and will remain on its DVLA record.

Does Cat N show on the V5C logbook?

Yes. The V5C will reflect the write-off status and show the car was classified as Cat N or S.

Can I sell a Cat N car?

Yes. Once repaired and roadworthy, you can legally sell a Category N car. You must disclose your write-off status to buyers and insurers.

Can I keep my number plate after a write-off?

Yes, but apply for a retention certificate through the DVLA before the car is scrapped.

Will my insurance cost more after a write-off?

Possibly. Even a non-fault claim can raise premiums if the insurer sees you as a higher risk.

How long does a write-off payout take?

Usually between 14 and 30 days, depending on documentation and vehicle valuation disputes.

Can I check if a car is written off for free?

No. The DVLA doesn’t offer a free write-off checker. Use a paid Car Insurance Write-Off service like CarVeto for the entire accident and write-off history.