RSLA for Towing Companies
Tow truck operators and storage yard owners often deal with vehicles that are towed at the request of law enforcement, property owners, or stranded motorists—only to be left unpaid for their services and storage costs. In Ontario, the Repair and Storage Liens Act (RSLA) provides a legal remedy for tow companies to protect their interests.
If a vehicle owner fails to pay towing or storage charges, the RSLA allows you to place a possessory lien on the vehicle, retain possession, and, if necessary, sell the vehicle by public auction to recover your fees. The process is technical and time-sensitive, but when followed properly, it gives you strong legal standing to enforce payment.
At Haider Khan Legal P.C., we provide experienced legal guidance to help tow truck operators and storage facilities enforce their RSLA rights efficiently and lawfully.
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At Haider Khan Legal P.C., we provide experienced legal guidance to help tow truck operators and storage facilities enforce their RSLA rights efficiently and lawfully.
1. Lien Registration and Sale Process
Advice on Registration and Enforcement
Drafting and serving of Notices of Intention to all interested parties to either sell, retain or dispose of equipment in their possession.
Preparing for sale or retention.
2. Disputes Over Ownership or Priority
Verifying registered owners and lienholders through vehicle history searches
Navigating disputes over priority between multiple claimants
Responding to demands for vehicle release and wrongful lien challenges
3. Storage Fee Recovery
Advising on reasonable storage charges under the RSLA
Enforcing payment of accrued daily storage rates
Supporting towing companies when vehicles are abandoned or unreclaimed
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Tow companies frequently invoke RSLA rights in scenarios such as:
Accident vehicles towed from highways are never claimed or paid for by the owner or insurer
Police-requested tows where the registered owner fails to reimburse your fees
Unauthorized vehicles removed from private property but later abandoned at your facility
Vehicles involved in criminal investigations are impounded for long periods without storage compensation
Third-party finance companies refuse to pay towing and storage fees on repossessed vehicles
Why Choose Haider Khan Legal?
We know how crucial it is for towing businesses to recover fees and manage space effectively. Our team has experience working with tow operators across Ontario to ensure they’re not left with unpaid bills or liabilities.
Fast turnaround for urgent liens and storage claims
End-to-end legal support, from lien registration to public auction
Clear guidance on RSLA compliance, priority rights, and ownership disputes
Contact us today for a consultation. Let us help you assert your legal rights under the RSLA and get paid for the services you’ve rendered.
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