You don’t need to have every document in hand before starting a PCP or HP claim. Lenders are required to keep records of finance agreements, and the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) can also request them if needed. However, having some information ready can speed up the process and strengthen your case.
Helpful documents include:
- Your finance agreement – the original PCP or HP contract, if you still have it.
- Payment records – bank statements or receipts showing what you paid.
- Any correspondence – emails, letters, or sales notes from the broker or lender.
- Personal notes – if you recall being pressured, not told about commission, or unclear on key terms.
Even if you no longer have paperwork, you can:
- Ask your lender directly for a copy of your agreement.
- Submit a data access request to recover records.
- Rely on the FCA’s evidence that 95% of finance deals involved commission, and 40% used banned discretionary commission arrangements (DCAs).
In most cases, the main question is whether your agreement was unfair – not whether you can produce every document. If you think you may have been mis-sold, you can make a free complaint directly to your lender or use a regulated claims management company like PCP ClaimBack to help.
