When do we consider that a vehicle has been abandoned?
There are a number of factors that will aid us in coming to a decision on whether a vehicle has been abandoned:
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Whether the vehicle is taxed.
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Whether there is a registered keeper.
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Whether the vehicle has been stationary for a significant period of time.
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Whether the vehicle is significantly damaged, run down or is not roadworthy.
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Whether the vehicle is burnt out.
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Whether the vehicle's number plate(s) is missing.
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Whether the vehicle contains waste.
A vehicle does not have to meet all of these criteria and may need only one to be considered abandoned, with the exception of the untaxed. If a vehicle is untaxed but does not fit any of the other categories, then we cannot consider the vehicle to be abandoned.
How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
You will be asked to provide the following details about the vehicle:
- Make and model.
- Colour of vehicle.
- Registration of vehicle.
- Exact location.
- Taxed or without tax.
- General condition of the vehicle.
What do we do with this information?
We investigate the vehicle via the DVLA and send an inspector to make a decision on whether the vehicle is abandoned. If we do not consider that the vehicle is abandoned we will do nothing, equally, if the vehicle is claimed we cannot come to the decision that the vehicle is abandoned.
If we consider that the vehicle is abandoned and that it is not claimed, then we will take the following steps:
For vehicles on the highway
If we consider that the vehicle is abandoned the inspector will apply a 24 hour notice. When this notice expires, the vehicle is checked. If it is found to be in the original position, we will make every effort to remove it for destruction (or storage if required) within 24 hours.
If we find a vehicle that has been vandalised or burnt out, we will not apply any notice and instruct our contractors to remove the vehicle as quickly as possible (usually within 24 hrs).
For vehicles on private property
If we consider that a vehicle on private property is abandoned, we are obliged to give the 'occupier' 15 days notice of our intention to remove the vehicle. We can act sooner if the occupier gives us permission to remove the vehicle.
However, if the owner claims the vehicle, we will not remove it.
The vehicle is causing an obstruction, but is not abandoned
We only have powers to move vehicles if we consider them abandoned. If the problem is a vehicle causing an obstruction, you should report it to Guildford police by phoning 0845 125 2222
Can you do anything about untaxed vehicles which are still being driven?
The DVLA is responsible for cases such as this, as they are the enforcing agency. Untaxed vehicles can be reported by phoning the DVLA on 08000 325 202 or in writing to the local office at the following address:
DVLA
Connect House
137 Alexandra Road
Wimbledon
London
SW19 7JY
Visit the DVLA website (this page opens in a new window) for more information.
How do I remove my own unwanted vehicle?
Our contractor provides a free removal service for unwanted cars. Find out more about unwanted cars.
Street Cleaning Services
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
Surrey GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444499
Email: hotlinec@guildford.gov.uk