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How To Report A Pothole

Posted by Tom on 3rd July 2025
How To Report A Pothole

​In London, the responsibility for road maintenance is divided among Transport for London (TfL), the 32 London boroughs, and the City of London. To report a pothole, it’s essential to identify which authority manages the specific road.

1. Determine the Road Authority:

  • TfL (Red Routes): TfL manages major roads known as ‘Red Routes,’ which constitute 5% of London’s roads but carry 30% of the traffic. These routes are marked by red lines and are crucial for keeping traffic moving.
  • Local Boroughs: Other roads are maintained by the respective London borough councils.

2. Reporting a Pothole:

  • For TfL-Managed Roads:
    • Online via Streetcare:
      • Use TfL’s Streetcare tool to report issues on Red Routes.
      • Steps:
        1. Visit the Streetcare website.
        2. Enter the specific location or postcode of the pothole.
        3. Provide detailed information about the pothole, including its size and exact position.
        4. Upload photos if available to assist in assessment.
        5. Submit the report; you’ll receive a reference number for tracking.
    • By Phone:
      • Call TfL at 0343 222 1234 to report the pothole directly.
  • For Borough-Managed Roads:
    • Identify the Relevant Borough:
      • Determine which borough the road is in.
      • Each borough has its own reporting system, typically accessible via their official website.
    • General Reporting via GOV.UK:

3. Information to Provide:

  • Location Details: Exact street address, nearby landmarks, or GPS coordinates.
  • Pothole Description: Approximate size, depth, and any immediate hazards it may pose.
  • Photographs: Clear images to help authorities assess the severity and prioritize repairs.

4. Follow-Up:

  • After reporting, you can monitor the status of your report using the reference number provided.
  • For TfL reports, the Streetcare tool allows you to check updates on previously reported issues.

By promptly reporting potholes with detailed information, you assist local authorities in maintaining safer for cyclists and more efficient roadways across London.