Scrap metal dealers
Scrap metal dealers are regulated under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964, which requires any person carrying on business as a scrap metal dealer to be registered with their local authority. For the purposes of this Act, a scrap metal dealer is defined as any business consisting wholly or partly of buying and selling scrap metal - any old metal, or broken and worn-out articles made of metal.
Application process
We can register persons who operate scrap metal collection or storage premises within Lambeth, and persons who live within Lambeth but do not operate any scrap metal premises.
Applicants should complete our application form, providing all of the required information, and return the completed form to the address shown. Alternatively, applicants can apply for registration online. There is currently no fee payable to register as a scrap metal dealer.
Upon receipt of the completed application, we will add your details to our register and confirm your registration, allowing you to operate as a scrap metal dealer. Registrations are valid for 3 years, and can be renewed towards the end of this period by completing a new registration form.
Can I start to deal in scrap metal before my application is granted (will tacit consent apply)?
No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact us. You can do this online if you applied through the Business Link service or use the contact details above.
Other matters
Registered scrap metal dealers must notify us if any of their details (e.g. name or address) change during the period that they are registered, or if they cease trading as a scrap metal dealer.
Registered scrap metal dealers are legally obliged to keep records of their business transactions, which can be inspected by the police. Details of the information that must be recorded are included with the application form.
A list of the scrap metal dealers currently registered in Lambeth can be inspected at our offices.
Comments and complaints
If you have any comments or complaints about a scrap metal dealer in Lambeth, we would advise that you firstly contact the trader directly - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, Consumer Direct may be able to offer you further advice (or the UK European Consumer Centre, if you are outside the UK).
If you have recently applied to register as a scrap metal dealer in Lambeth, and you wish to make a comment or complaint about the way in which your application was processed, please see our Comments and Complaints pages.