Abandoned vehicles

The council will deal with any vehicles reported as abandoned on local roads or property (usually including private property). The vehicle will be removed if it is causing a public nuisance, is untaxed or if it has not been removed by the owner for a specified length of time after a notice of removal has been placed on the vehicle.

Tower Hamlets does its best to remove vehicles abandoned in the borough as quickly as possible. However there are a number of procedures that we have to carry out by law before removal can take place.

If we think that a vehicle is a danger to the general public or is causing an obstruction we can arrange to have the vehicle removed within 24 hours.

There are a number of procedures that must be carried out by law, and in most circumstances it may take several days before the vehicle is removed from the street.

Reporting an abandoned vehicle

You can report a suspected abandoned vehicle the following ways:

• If it is on private property contact your managing agent or neighbourhood housing office.
• If it is on a council managed estate please report to your local housing office or call 020-7364-5003 and give the details to the Customer Contact Centre.
• if it is on a public highway you can complete the online form or report it to your neighbourhood housing office, or call 020-7364-5003 and give the details to the Customer Contact Centre.

Failure to follow these procedures may result in no action being taken due to legal restrictions. Failure to give valid contact details will result in the inability to give feedback or advice.

We also offer a free disposal permit for residents who no longer want their vehicles. Download a surrender form (pdf 14k)  

To report an abandoned vehicle please complete an online form. 

Contact us:

Parking Services
Tower Hamlets Car Pound
585-593 Commercial Road
London E1 0HJ

Tel: 020 7364 5003
Fax: 020 7364 6797
Email: generalenquiries@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Open: Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm