Stump grinders: describe wear through evidence rather than estimates
- Reading time
- 3 minutes
- Last reviewed
On this page
Describe stump grinder wear through evidence. A photograph, a parts invoice and an engineer's report each contribute something different. None should be stretched into a percentage of life remaining without a sound basis.
Identify the grinder and any separately identified cutter assembly or attachment. Record the current configuration and displayed reading, if relevant, with the date. Then gather the evidence for the areas a buyer will ask about.
Use a wear-evidence sheet
| Evidence type | What it can show | What it does not establish alone |
|---|---|---|
| Dated owner photograph | Safely visible condition at that time | Hidden damage or remaining life |
| Parts invoice | Items purchased and date | That they were fitted to this grinder |
| Fitting or service report | Work described for the identified asset | Everything that happened afterwards |
| Specialist condition report | Findings within its stated scope | Conditions or components excluded from assessment |
| Operator observation | A specific reported symptom | The technical cause |
Keep the original files and attach their references to the description. Do not collapse the whole sheet into "recently refurbished" unless the available records justify that precise claim.
Replace a percentage with a usable description
A fictional listing says: "Teeth 80% good, ready to work."
A better evidence note might say: "Current cutter area shown in photographs 4–7, taken on 2 October. Invoice G12 records the purchase of replacement components in June; fitting evidence is not available. A specialist assessment of current condition has not been supplied."
This does not answer every technical question, but it tells the buyer which questions remain. If a report later establishes more, update the note using the report's scope.
Do not assign a wear percentage from one image or assume identical replacement parts were used across the assembly.
Arrange the right view safely
Ask the responsible person and appropriate provider how the relevant condition can be assessed. Do not remove guards, reach towards the cutter or move a supported assembly simply to obtain a close-up.
The flail mower evidence guide explains a similar distinction between visible guarding information and technical findings. Use that evidence method without treating different machines' requirements as interchangeable.
HSE's work equipment inspection guidance supports a risk-based scope for assessment in Great Britain. Provide the actual configuration, records and concerns so the provider can decide what needs examination.
Describe a fault separately from wear
If the machine is non-running or has a reported operating problem, keep that fact visible. Worn-looking components do not necessarily explain the fault.
Use the non-running plant guide to separate symptoms from diagnosis. "Engine does not start" and "cutting assembly requires assessment" may be two distinct entries, rather than one guessed repair.
Where the grinder has stood unused, add the storage-history record. Include known exposure, movement and earlier faults without promising that a simple service will restore it.
Give the organiser an evidence pack
Supply identity photographs, the wear sheet, current fault notes and any specialist report. List loose spares separately with part references and quantities. Do not count them as installed improvements.
Send the pack to UK Auction Group's agriculture and groundcare service. Ask for the proposed description to state the evidence and its limits, including whether further specialist work is needed before the sale route is agreed.
Sources
- HSE inspection of work equipment Checked
This guide gives general information. Equipment-specific, legal, tax and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser or competent specialist. The guides do not promise sale prices, fees or results.