Signed CPR 35 Independent Report

Evidence, not a promise

We arrange an independent vehicle inspection and a signed technical report. The inspector examines the vehicle and available records, identifies the findings and considers whether a fault was present or developing when the vehicle was supplied, where the evidence allows that opinion.

You can present the report to your finance provider and, if your complaint is eligible, the Financial Ombudsman Service. Neither has to accept every finding. A report does not guarantee repair, rejection, a refund or compensation.

What CPR 35 means

CPR 35 means Part 35 of the Civil Procedure Rules, the framework for independent expert evidence in England and Wales. Its principles require an expert to remain objective and impartial, rather than produce an opinion simply because it helps the person paying for the report.

Our signed reports are prepared to that standard, alongside the associated Practice Direction. CPR 35 is not a certification, approval badge or endorsement of our business. Different procedural rules apply in Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

You do not need to start formal proceedings to give technical evidence to a lender or the Ombudsman. Their own complaint processes determine how they assess it.

What the report should record

• The inspector’s identity, relevant qualifications and expertise.
• The vehicle inspected, its mileage, the inspection date and the scope of the assessment.
• The documents, diagnostic information, observations and tests relied on.
• The technical findings, possible causes and the reasoning behind the inspector’s opinion.
• Any limitations, missing records, assumptions or uncertainty about when a fault developed.
• The required declarations, confirmation of independence and a signed statement of truth.

Why the point of supply matters

A fault discovered later is not automatically proof that the vehicle was faulty when supplied. Repair invoices, diagnostic records, photographs, service history and the pattern of symptoms can help an inspector assess its likely origin.

After the first six months, a consumer will normally need to establish that the relevant fault existed or was developing at supply. An independent report may help, but it cannot always date a fault conclusively. Read about the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

If the findings do not support rejection

The inspector must report what they find, including normal wear, later damage, maintenance issues, no identifiable fault or insufficient evidence. We do not alter an independent opinion to obtain a preferred outcome.

We review the available evidence alongside relevant consumer and credit protections. Where the findings support it, our technical support may assist a repair or rejection request. We do not determine your legal entitlement, give legal advice or represent you.

Inspection scope and cost

Our fixed fee of £295 is payable when we take on your case. It pays for arranging an independent vehicle inspection assessment, the signed report and an evidence pack you can present to your finance provider.

Any further inspection is a new service and is charged separately, including where a second inspection, a different inspector, a ramp assessment or a re-inspection after repairs is needed. We confirm any additional cost and seek your written agreement before arranging further work. Transport and storage are charged separately.

See pricing and the full service and cancellation terms before agreeing to the service.

Official sources

• Civil Procedure Rules, Part 35
• Practice Direction 35: expert evidence
• Financial Ombudsman Service: car finance complaints

General information, not legal advice. These independent organisations do not endorse our service. Legal disclaimer.