The 5 Point Security Check: What to Do Before Handing Over Your Keys

TRAVEL TIPS

1/14/20262 min read

When returning to the UK from holiday, it's no secret that some car owners have been left in a situation of utter despair. To find their cars splattered in mud, damaged, or with unexplained additional miles on the clock, or at best, being dumped in boggy fields or residential streets, by the scoundrels who have been looking after them.

Police and Trading Standards say they’re receiving numerous (and in some cases increasing) complaints about rogue/unaccredited operators.

To make sure you are not the next victim, I recommend following a five-point checklist.

1. The "Joyride" Proof

Make sure you take a few clear photos of the state of your car, including photos of your mileage counter and fuel gauge, when you leave and return to verify the journey you and your car took, and also of the four corners to show that your car hasn't been in a collision.

2. The "Burner Phone"

Check the operator has a verifiable physical address and a working contact number. Be cautious of firms that only provide a mobile number as they might be hard to contact when you return.

3. The ID Check

When using a drop-off parking service, don't hand over your keys to anyone who shows up in a high-vis jacket, especially if they're not from the company. Thieves have been known to pose as valet drivers in such a way. A legitimate driver will be happy to show you their company ID, and the company must have appropriate motor insurance that covers staff driving customers’ cars.

4. The "Muddy Field"

Trading Standards often get wind of car operations that claim to have "secure CCTV parking" which are really just leaving cars in fields or public lay-bys.

To test the veracity of these claims the advice is often to "trust but verify", and for typically ~£25–£35 depending on retailer and model, you can purchase an Apple AirTag or Tile tracker, and check if your car is actually in the secure area you were promised.

5. The Burglary Risk

The rise of car burglary is a nasty crime but thieves can also exploit the "Home" setting on your Sat-Nav. Remove your house keys from the key ring. Hand over only the car key. Clear your Sat-Nav history.

Safe travels,

The ABC Team