Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start a lien sale?
If work or services are included, you can start your lien after a statement of
charges is presented to the owner or 15 days after the work is completed,
whichever occurs first. If a lien is for towing or storage only, you can start
your lien anytime after the vehicle comes into your possession.
How much storage am I entitled to?
In most cases you can include only 60 days of storage, at your posted rate.
How do I decide if the value of the vehicle is over or under $4000.00?
The value of the vehicle in present condition, plus any repairs.
What if a vehicle is stolen?
If this happens, we will contact you and inform you to call your local law
enforcement agency to tell them that you have the vehicle.
What if a vehicle has no record of California registration?
An authorized employee of the DMV, a law enforcement officer or a licensed
vehicle verifier - such as your Ritter Representative - must verify the vehicle
before it can be registered.
Can someone oppose the lien sale?
Any person who has an interest in the vehicle may stop the sale. You must obtain
a release of interest from the opposer, a court judgment or a DMV authorization
to continue after unsuccessful service before you can proceed with a new lien
sale.
Can a legal owner (Bank or Finance Co.) redeem a vehicle for less then my lien?
In most cases the legal owner is only responsible for $400 in storage or $750 in
repairs as storage, whichever is higher, plus lien and towing fees.
What if my customer comes in and pays part or all of their bill?
Once you accept any money towards their bill, the lien sale is cancelled.
What happens the day after the lien sale?
The vehicle must be available for inspection at least one hour prior to sale. A
lien sale is a public sale and anyone may appear and bid on the vehicle. Sealed
bids are not allowed.
What if I sell the vehicle for more than my lien against it?
Any excess money must be remitted to the Department of Motor
Vehicles, Lien Sale Section, 2415 1st Ave., Sacramento, CA 95818 for
deposit into the Motor Vehicle Account, State Transportation Fund.
Remit within 5 days for vehicle valued $4000.00 or less, remit
within 15 days for vehicles valued over $4000.00. (Along with a
complete copy of the Certificate of Lien Sale.)
What about an unpaid registration fee or outstanding tickets due on the vehicle?
If the vehicle comes into your possession with expired registration, the buyer must pay the
fees and the penalties. If the vehicle registration expired while in your possession, the buyer
can pay the fees without penalty. In most cases, tickets are not the buyer's responsibility.
