Some sellers’ profits are literally wasting away, according to remarketing specialist BCA.

It has issued a warning to van sellers to be extra vigilant over the growing issue of waste being left in commercial vehicles.

With the Landfill Regulations 2002 (England and Wales) legislation introduced from October 30 on disposal and sorting of waste, there are potentially serious financial implications for everyone involved in remarketing commercials.

When waste is left in vehicles, there are costs for waste removal, decontamination and hazardous waste handling.

All landfill now has to be separated into glass, textiles and plastics.

Hazardous waste such as paint, solvents and even oily rags have to be safely and separately disposed of.

BCA’s Duncan Ward commented: “Increasing legislation and corporate responsibility issues mean vendors must be aware of the condition their vehicles are in at the end of their working life.

“It is particularly important where vehicles have been on lease and are coming back for remarketing often unseen by the owner.

“We are seeing increasing instances where waste such as batteries, concrete, building rubble, rubber tyres and wood are left in vehicles.

"The costs of disposals can range from £75 for a small load to upwards of £250 for large loads.”

BCA is advising fleets and leasing companies to put in place procedures that ensure potential waste violations are identified at the end of a vehicle’s working life and suggests vehicles should be inspected before being sent for remarketing.

This will help the fleet manager to identify potential problems before they arise, while leasing companies can use the reports to enforce end-of-contract charges.