Excess in work van

sofie2007

Back in January my partner had a bump in his work van, resulting in some minor damage to the van, and also to another van. My partner was self employed at the time, delivering parcels for this company. The van belonged to the company. A few weeks later he was let go, due to lack of work. Yesterday a letter turned up from his old boss stating that he needs to pay the excess on the insurance claim, which is £620.

Is my partner liable to pay this?
Any advice would be appreciated!

Quentin

All depends on the agreement between the two parties.

What does it say regarding reimbursement of costs in the event of damage to the company vehicle?

sofie2007

He doesn't remember signing any contract, and wasn't given a copy of any terms and conditions?

forgotmyname

Send it back and say their insurance = their excess and see what they say.

Quentin

sofie2007 wrote: »

He doesn't remember signing any contract, and wasn't given a copy of any terms and conditions?

Most companies have a company vehicle policy that they get all drivers to agree to before giving them the keys.

If one existed, and he agreed it, then it will come to light if he ignores the letter!

Otherwise they will have a job proving this money is owed.

sofie2007

Thanks for your help!

Would this company need to provide a signed (by my partner) copy of this policy to prove that he needs to pay?

Quentin

They would need to provide some sort of proof that he agreed to the insurance arrangements.

Either ignore the letter or reply that you don't owe this and you will find out if they are bluffing!

Bean_Counter

£620 seems an odd amount for an excess as in my experience they tend to be round sum figures, say £100 or £500.

There should also be an invoice from the repair company that would detail the excess, any VAT to pay (and recover of course) etc. Depending on how you get on with the suggestions above, ask for the invoice in the fullness of time.

InsideInsurance

As he is not an employee things are more complex and there is less protection as it is seen as a B2B relationship and people in business are considered to be more self responsible than private individuals who need state protection from businesses.

You will need to review all the paperwork he was given irrespective of it is signed or not.

If there is nothing in place at all then it comes down to the simple common law considerations. Your partner has caused the company a loss through his negligent actions, they would most likely be entitled to recover that money from him.