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Telephone 0845 600 5701 - In an emergency dial 999

Frequently Asked Questions

Abandoned Cars

There is a car in my road with has been there for a few days and seems to be abandoned. What should I do?

Take a look at the vehicle and make a note of the following:

  • The registration number
  • Is there a current tax disc displayed?
  • Is the vehicle locked?
  • Is there any damage to the vehicle - inside or outside?

Then call us on 0845 600 5701 and we will check to see if it is stolen or suspicious. If it is not reported stolen, the Department for Environmental Health at your local council can serve a 7-day notice on the vehicle. If it is not moved within those 7 days the council can then arrange to remove it and have it scrapped.

People are starting to remove parts such as hubcaps and wheels from a car which has been abandoned. What should I do?

This is theft even though the vehicle appears to have been abandoned. If you actually witness this happening please call us on 999 with a full description of those responsible. We will try to attend as quickly as possible to deal with those concerned.

If this has happened some time ago, call us on 0845 600 5701 and tell the operator what you saw. We will then make appropriate enquiries.

Ask the Police - Frequently Asked Questions Database

To access an extensive bank of police based frequently asked questions, visit the Ask the Police website.

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