Check sale authority before assets are marketed
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Before assets move from an exploratory enquiry into marketing, check that the business has a clear, current instruction to give. A photographer's visit, an equipment estimate or a draft list should not quietly become permission to advertise everything on site.
Ask the appropriate adviser about the actual authority and approval requirements. The working decision note described here records that process; it does not replace it.
Define the exact scope being considered
Identify the proposed seller, asset list version, exclusions and any equipment still needed for work. Link relevant ownership, finance and authority evidence in the controlled records.
The entity reference sheet helps establish whose instruction is required. Finance agreement questions may leave particular items unresolved even when the general closure plan has been agreed.
State what action is proposed: for example, considering a marketing instruction for a defined group. Do not combine a limited approval with an open-ended phrase allowing any other assets to be added later.
Record the answer and the holds
The decision note should identify who acted in which capacity, the date, relevant approval record and any conditions. If a question remains open, say which assets or actions it affects and who is resolving it.
A fictional business has confirmed the scope for one room while ownership of equipment in an adjoining area remains uncertain. The record should distinguish them. A general statement that "the site is approved" would erase a material limitation.
The director instruction record can preserve the exact capacity and scope. If approval depends on another event, do not remove the condition simply to make the note shorter.
Check the instruction against outside communications
Make sure the proposed marketing description matches the current authorised list and known business position. Unfinished customer work, staff proposals or a possible continuing operation may require coordination with the relevant advisers before commitments or publicity.
If information differs between the current brief and earlier conversations, explain the change. The recipient should not have to infer which version takes precedence.
Provide UK Auction Group with the actual confirmed instruction through the agreed route. Ask for clarification of the proposed service step if its scope is unclear. The business should know what it is authorising and what remains outside that instruction.
Keep the note with its referenced evidence and review it if the asset list, authority or material circumstances change. The useful outcome is a decision that can be followed accurately by people who were not in the room, including a clear answer about the items that are still awaiting review.
Explore advisers and sale authority.
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This guide is general information and education only. Legal, tax, employment and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser who knows your situation. Read the disclaimer.