Transport for London(TfL) has
launched an email "penalty checker" service to enable those buying
new cars to see if the vehicle has any unpaid congestion charges on
it.
To use the service, potential car buyers will need to provide
their name, address and the vehicle registration, as well as
confirmation that authorisation has been obtained from the
registered keeper.
Requests should be sent to:
OutstandingCCPenaltyCharges@TfL.gov.uk
An e-mail response will be sent within ten working days
confirming whether there are any outstanding penalty charges.
Basic advice as to what action can be taken if there are is also
provided.
John Mason, TfL's head of enforcement in congestion charging,
said, "It is only fair that the motorist who incurred, or who is
liable, for a penalty issued by us for not complying with the
congestion charge scheme is the person who pays for it.
"We are providing this service in order to assist anyone buying
a used car to find out quickly and conveniently that no outstanding
congestion charging penalties exist, and provide clear advice and
guidance to them if there are."
A wait of up to ten days to check however will severely delay
many deals and potential buyers may miss out on their ideal cars -
particularly those sold through online auction sites such as eBay
which require speedier payments.