If you are buying a used car, you will probably hear "Cat S" or "Cat N" at some point. These are insurance write-off categories, and they matter because they affect safety, value, and resale.
Here is the plain-English explanation.
The quick definitions
Cat S (Structural)
The car had structural damage. It can be repaired and returned to the road, but the damage was serious enough that an insurer declared it uneconomical to repair at the time.
Cat N (Non-structural)
The car had non-structural damage, such as bodywork, electrical, or interior issues. It can also be repaired and returned to the road.
What this means for buyers
Value
Category cars are usually cheaper. That can be good value, but only if the repair quality is high.
Insurance
Some insurers will charge more or refuse cover. Always check before you commit.
Resale
A Cat S or Cat N marker stays with the car. Expect resale value to be lower.
What to check before you buy
-
The repair paperwork
Ask for invoices, photos, or evidence of what was fixed. -
A thorough inspection
Ideally a professional inspection, not just a quick look. -
The rest of the history
Make sure there is no outstanding finance, stolen marker, or mileage inconsistencies.
Is it always a bad idea?
Not necessarily. Some Cat N cars are lightly damaged and repaired to a high standard. The key is transparency and proof.
If the seller is vague, or the repair looks rushed, it is usually safer to walk away.
Next steps
You can check if a vehicle has a write-off category in a full report. Combine that with MOT history and a physical inspection for the safest decision.
- Free check:
/check - Full report:
/checkout