Consulting the RDPRM Website: A Small Thing that can Prevent a Big Headache
In partnership with Otogo.ca
Buying a used car on that has a financial lien attached can turn into a nightmare overnight, especially if the previous owner didn’t pay back what was owed to the bank when selling the vehicle.
You can find yourself in a tough spot: either lose the car you just purchased (since it will be seized by the bank) or pay whatever amount was remaining on the lien. Unfortunately, this isn’t uncommon in Quebec, and that’s especially true when younger adults and newcomers are concerned. Being aware of the province’s laws regarding the matter will definitely help you avoid such situations.
When buying a used car from an individual rather than a licensed dealer, even if the vehicle is considered old, the odds that a lien is attached to the car are far greater. However, a licensed dealer is legally mandated to verify that no financial lien is attached to a vehicle before putting it up for sale.
The government of Quebec has your back, though, since a simple web search can lead you to the RDPRM (Register of Personal and Movable Real Rights) website and help you avoid the headache of having to deal with the remaining lien.
To complete the verification, all you need is the VIN number and four dollars on hand. You can also complete the verification using a business name: you’ll have to spend ten dollars, though. Once completed, you’ll obtain all the information regarding financial liens attached to the vehicle.
Note that the RDPRM will not give you detailed information regarding the name of the previous owner, the balance owned on a loan, whether a vehicle has been stolen or involved in an accident, nor will it provide you with information regarding your rights when purchasing a vehicle.
Quebecers seem to look out for themselves: more than half a million consultations regarding an automobile were performed in 2020, and 65 per cent of all consultations can be performed on this website. Alas, it’s being said that one third of all transactions are still at risk.
What’s a little pocket change when you can save thousands?