What is an abandoned vehicle
A vehicle may be considered abandoned if:
- it has been vandalised or damaged
- doors or the boot are left open or unsecured
- it has been partially or fully burnt out
Not all damaged or unused vehicles are abandoned; some may be nuisance vehicles.
If you have a notice on your vehicle and wish to claim it, find out how to claim an abandoned vehicle.
Nuisance vehicles
Abandoned vehicles are often confused with nuisance vehicles.
A nuisance vehicle is not necessarily abandoned. It could be:
- sold on the street as part of a business
- involved in a parking dispute
- parked badly or causing an obstruction
- untaxed, without MOT, SORN or insurance
- broken down
Nuisance vehicles should not be reported as abandoned.