Abandoned vehicles

Abandoned vehicles

What is an abandoned vehicle?

An abandoned vehicle is:

abandoned without authorisation
in such a condition that it ought to be destroyed
an untaxed vehicle and not necessarily abandoned. This is a matter for the Surrey Police and / or DVLA.

Reporting an abandoned vehicle?

First ensure that the vehicle is abandoned and then call us on 01784 446411 or complete the electronic form.

Any report should include the following:

location
make
colour
index no. (car registration) of the vehicle, if any.

When a vehicle is reported, it is logged and if no keeper is shown, a current keeper enquiry is sent to DVLA, who should respond within 12 hours.

An officer will visit the scene and place a notice on the vehicle requiring its removal. The vehicle is then photographed as evidence.

Removal of vehicles

Any vehicle in a dangerous position or condition can now be removed within 24 hours. This type of 'end of life' vehicle can be immediately scrapped.

If the vehicle is not dangerous, but still considered to be abandoned and we are unable to contact any keeper, the vehicle can be removed after seven days. This is of course subject to contractor workloads.

There is now no need to retain a vehicle unless it has some value or it is considered that an ownership claim may be made.

Removal of abandoned vehicles is our responsibility.

The cost of dealing with 2,500 reported abandoned vehicles in the Spelthorne area amounts to approximately £20,000 per year.