a How important is it for a contract to be agreed between owner end outside repairer?
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How should this be drawn up, and what should be included, and have you a specimen copy, or could you advise me where to get one already printed that would satisfy the DoE, if this is necessary?
If such a contract is essential would this also apply to an associated group who are repairers but a completely different firm?
AIt is important for a contract to be agreed
between the vehicle owner and repairer if maintenance is to be done by outside repairers. The LA will want to see a copy of the contract either when you apply for your 0 licence or at a later date.
The contract should specify the maintenance work to be done and the intervals at which it should be carried out and should cover the provision of suitable records of all the work because these are required by law and may be called for by the LA for examination.
There are many different types of contract in use and most of the large commercial vehicle repair specialists and major commercial vehicle distributors have either their own type of contract or one recommended by the vehicle manufacturer they represent, designed to help the small operator comply with the law.
In answer to your last question, a contract would still be advisable if repairs are to be carried out by an associated group company.