Only if they know about it otherwise its illegal. If they dont know about it then you cant do anything about it.
I was on jury duty for a case just like that so I know all the ins and outs.

ah cool, well he said ihe had owned it since new so yeh, i dont think not knowing would be an excuse

my only other concern is the guy said it had heavy duty springs, for towing, that made me think, what the hell has he been towing to justify those springs.

i mean if he was a regular tower of something large, would that be a worry?

I wouldnt like the idea of getting a car thats done lots or heavy towing, but id drive the car 1st n see if it drives oddly - i dont think it will be noticable that its towed heavy loads unless its been clapped out constantly.
My car has a tow bar but i was told its never towed a single thing, as he had a 4wd to tow with, i believe it as the car n tow bar drive and look like new; also the towbar electrics plug still looks unopened and clean as a whistle inside.

Somthing to think about.

if the owner is and old guy with a caravan i would rather that than a young bloke towing a jetski ... you just have to make a choice it the time!