SORN Car Parked Outside Your House? Do This To Get It Moved

Discovering a SORN car parked outside your house can be a frustrating situation. The abandoned vehicle raises questions about its owner, intentions, and the appropriate course of action. The matter is made worse if the car is an eyesore that does not disappear after a few days, weeks or even months.

In this article, I will explore the steps you can take when faced with a SORN car parked outside your house in the UK.

From understanding the legal requirements to exploring possible solutions, I aim to provide guidance and shed light on this annoying scenario.

What is SORN?

SORN stands for Statutory Off Road Notification.

In the UK, SORN is a legal obligation for vehicles that are not being driven or parked on public roads. It ensures that these vehicles are not subject to vehicle tax or insurance requirements. Failure to comply with SORN regulations can lead to penalties and legal consequences.

Can a SORN car be parked on the road?

In the UK, a SORN car should not be parked on a public road. The purpose of declaring a SORN is to inform the authorities that the vehicle is not in use and will not be driven or parked on public roads.

Parking a SORN car on a public road would be a violation of this declaration and could result in penalties or fines.

When a vehicle is declared as SORN, it should be kept on private property, such as a driveway, garage, or any other designated off-road space. This ensures that it is not obstructing public roads or causing inconvenience to other road users.

If you own a SORN car and need to park it, make sure to find a suitable off-road location, such as private property or a dedicated storage facility. This helps ensure compliance with SORN regulations and avoids any potential legal consequences.

Steps to take if there is a SORN car parked outside your house

If you find a SORN car parked on the road outside your house in the UK, there are several steps you can take to address the situation, including reporting a vehicle that is SORN but on the road:

1. Document the Details: Take note of the car’s registration number, make, model, colour, and any other distinguishing features. It’s important to have accurate information about the vehicle for future reference. You could take a picture of the car for your records.
2. Verify SORN Status: Confirm that the vehicle is indeed SORN by checking the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) website or contacting them directly. This will help you determine if the car’s SORN status is legitimate or if there might be an issue with the owner’s compliance.
3. Contact the Owner: If you can identify the owner, consider reaching out to them politely. Maybe the car belongs to a neighbour. They might have simply forgotten about their SORN declaration or be unaware of the inconvenience caused. You can kindly remind them of the situation and suggest that they either move the vehicle or renew their SORN if it’s still applicable.
4. Report a vehicle that is SORN but on the road: If you are unable to locate the owner or if the owner does not take action to resolve the issue, you can report the vehicle that is SORN but parked on the road online on the GOV.UK website. If you have an issue with this service then you can contact your local council for further advice. They will have procedures in place to handle such situations and can arrange for the vehicle’s removal if necessary. If a car has been left in a dangerous position, then you can contact your local police station.
5. Maintain Your Safety: If the abandoned car raises any concerns about safety or security, it’s important to prioritise your well-being. If you suspect any criminal activity or feel unsafe, contact the police and provide them with the necessary information. They will assess the situation and take appropriate action.

After you report the car, it won’t be removed immediately but the common procedure is for a notice to be placed on the car and to clamp it. The owner will be given a period of time to owner come forward.

If the owner doesn’t come forward then the car might be removed and destroyed.

The guidance provided here serves as a general outline, but local regulations and authorities may have specific protocols to follow when dealing with SORN vehicles parked outside private properties.

The following articles might be of interest to you:

• My Neighbour’s Car Alarm Keeps Going Off UK: What Can I Do?
• Resolving Neighbour Disputes: A Guide To Alternative Dispute Resolution
• How To Resolve Neighbour Disputes Using Mediation
• How To Complain About A Neighbour To The Council?

What is the fine for parking a SORN car on the road?

Parking a SORN car on a public road in the UK is illegal and can result in penalties and fines.

The specific amount of the fine can vary depending on various factors, including the location and circumstances.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Penalty Charges: If a SORN vehicle is parked on a public road without valid road tax or appropriate authorisation, the local authorities or the DVLA may issue a penalty charge notice (PCN) or a fixed penalty notice (FPN). The current standard penalty charge for this offence is typically £100, but it may be reduced to £50 if paid within a specified time frame.
2. Removal and Storage Costs: In addition to the penalty charge, if the SORN car is deemed abandoned or causing an obstruction, the local authorities have the right to remove the vehicle. The owner may be required to pay for the costs associated with the removal, storage, and disposal of the vehicle.
3. Continuous Offences: If the owner repeatedly parks a SORN car on a public road or commits similar offences, the penalties may increase. Subsequent violations can result in higher fines and potential legal consequences.

If you drive a SORN car on the road then you can be fined up to £2,500 (unless driving to a MOT).

It’s important to note that the specific fines and penalties can change over time, so it’s advisable to consult the official guidelines provided by the DVLA or local authorities for the most up-to-date information.

To avoid any fines or legal issues, owners of SORN vehicles should ensure they comply with the regulations and keep their vehicles off public roads unless they have obtained the appropriate permissions or tax.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding a SORN car parked outside your house can be a frustrating experience, especially if there are limited parking spaces.

However, by familiarising yourself with the legal requirements and taking appropriate action, you can navigate this situation effectively.

Remember to document the details, verify the SORN status, and reach out to the owner if possible. If necessary, report the vehicle that is SORN but on the road to the authorities.

By following these steps, you can address the issue and get the SORN car removed from outside your house.