Abandoned Vehicles
Abandoned cars are not only unsightly, but can be dangerous, especially to youngsters that are tempted to use them as play equipment.
It is illegal to dump a vehicle in the street, but also unnecessary as Government regulations that came into force on 1 January 2007 entitle car owners to "free take-back" by the manufacturers.
Abandoned Vehicles
By law, the Council must remove any motor vehicles abandoned on any borough land or road in the open air. Motorbikes and caravans are considered as vehicles if abandoned as long as they have a number plate. Bicycles are not classed as a vehicle.
Following a report of an abandoned vehicle, the abandoned vehicle officer (AVO) will normally inspect the scene within 24 hours. The officer will place a notice on cars which appear to be abandoned (the relevant statutory notice). The notice period can vary from 24 hours to 7 days (15 days on private land), after which time we will issue a destruction order if the vehicle has not moved. The vehicle should then be removed. We will also remove burnt out vehicles immediately.
Some cars look like they are abandoned (for example, they may be old and in a poor condition), but do in fact have a traceable owner. In these cases, the Council will write to the owner asking them to contact us within a specified time. If the vehicle is deemed abandoned, we will remove the vehicle.
Vehicles which are causing a physical obstruction to a driveway but are not abandoned can only be dealt with by the Police.
If a notice has been put on your vehicle and you haven’t abandoned it then you will need to call us immediately on 020 8547 5002. Your call will be logged and passed on to the AVO who will then investigate it.
Report Abandoned, Untaxed or Nuisance Vehicles
If you suspect a vehicle has been dumped in your street, or is an untaxed/nuisance vehicle, please call the Customer Contact Centre on 020 8547 5002, complete an online form or email us:
Free Take-Back
New Government Regulations require vehicle manufacturers to offer Free Take-Back of their vehicles. Under the "End of Life Vehicle Directive", centres have been set up around the country to dispose of your vehicle in a sustainable manner.
Our abandoned vehicle contractor offers a free collection and disposal service. Please note that we are not involved in this service, which would be a private arrangement between the contractor and you.
APTCO
343 Hook Rise South
Surbiton
KT6 7LW
Telephone: 0800 7839039