Why Proper Reporting Matters
Every year, UK councils receive hundreds of thousands of pothole reports. The vast majority go nowhere. A vague complaint like “there’s a hole on my road” gives the highway authority nothing to work with and no legal obligation to respond urgently.
A detailed, well-evidenced report is different. It creates a legal paper trail under the Highways Act 1980. Once a council has been formally notified of a specific hazard with evidence, they can no longer rely on the “Section 58 defence” — the claim that they didn’t know about the defect. That shifts the balance of power firmly in your favour.
In short: a good report protects you legally, gets potholes fixed faster, and builds a record that supports any future compensation claim if damage occurs.
What Councils Take Seriously
Highway authorities prioritise reports that include specific, actionable information. The more of these you provide, the harder your report is to ignore.
Specific Location
Road name, nearest house number or landmark, and GPS coordinates. The more precise, the better.
Size & Depth
Width, length, and depth measurements. A defect 40mm or deeper is generally classified as an intervention-level hazard.
Photographic Evidence
Clear photos with a scale reference (coin, ruler, or phone). Multiple angles strengthen your report significantly.
Multiple Reports
Reports from different people about the same pothole signal urgency. Encourage neighbours to report it too.
Safety Risk Mentioned
Reports that explicitly mention danger to cyclists, motorcyclists, or pedestrians are flagged as higher priority.
Date & Time Record
Noting when you observed the defect helps establish how long the council has been on notice.
How to Submit an Effective Report
Follow these six steps to create a report that councils cannot easily dismiss.
Document With Photos
Before anything else, photograph the pothole thoroughly. Take a wide shot showing the road context, a close-up showing detail, and include a common object for scale (a coin or ruler works well). Our evidence guide covers exactly how to capture photos that hold up.
Measure the Pothole
If it’s safe to do so, measure the width, length, and depth. Use a tape measure or ruler. If you don’t have one, estimate using your hand span (roughly 20cm) or phone length (roughly 15cm). Any depth over 40mm is generally considered dangerous by highway authorities.
Note the Exact Location
Record the road name, nearest house number or landmark, and which lane or part of the road the pothole is in. Drop a pin on Google Maps or Apple Maps and screenshot it. GPS coordinates are ideal — most phones show these in the Maps app if you tap and hold.
Submit via the Right Channel
The best option is FixMyStreet.com, which routes your report directly to the responsible highway authority. Alternatively, report directly via your council’s website. For trunk roads and motorways, report to National Highways. Make sure you’re reporting to the correct authority for the road type.
Save Your Reference Number
Every report should generate a reference number or confirmation email. Save this immediately — screenshot it, email it to yourself, or write it down. This is your proof that the council was formally notified, which is critical for any future compensation claim under the Highways Act 1980.
Follow Up After 28 Days
If the pothole hasn’t been repaired within 28 days, follow up with the council using your reference number. Document that the defect is still present with new photos and the date. Persistent follow-ups strengthen your case and show the council has had reasonable time to act.
Common Mistakes That Kill Reports
Avoid These Errors
- “There’s a hole on my street” — Too vague. Which street? Where exactly? How big? This gives the council no actionable information and is easily dismissed.
- Not including photos — A report without photographic evidence is just a complaint. Photos make it a formal record of a known hazard.
- Not noting date and time — The date you observed the pothole establishes how long the council has been on notice. Without it, they can claim ignorance.
- Reporting to the wrong authority — Council roads, trunk roads, and motorways are managed by different bodies. A report sent to the wrong one may never reach the right desk.
- Not keeping records — If you don’t save your reference number and confirmation, you have no proof the council was notified. Always keep copies of everything.
Reporting Channels
FixMyStreet.com
The most widely used platform. Automatically routes your report to the correct highway authority based on location. Creates a public record that others can see and support.
Visit FixMyStreet →Your Council’s Website
Most councils have a dedicated highway fault reporting form on their website. Search for “report a road problem” followed by your council name. This creates a direct record with the responsible authority.
Search: “[your council name] report pothole”
National Highways
For motorways and major A-roads (trunk roads) managed by National Highways rather than local councils. Report via their website or by calling 0300 123 5000.
Tel: 0300 123 5000
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report a pothole to my local council?
You can report a pothole through FixMyStreet.com, which automatically routes your report to the correct highway authority, or directly via your council's website. Search for your council name followed by 'report pothole'. For motorways and trunk roads, report to National Highways on 0300 123 5000. Include clear photos, the exact location, and measurements for the best results.
How long does it take to fix a pothole once reported?
Repair times vary by council and severity. Dangerous defects (40mm deep or more) are typically flagged for urgent repair within 24 to 48 hours. Less severe potholes may be scheduled for routine maintenance within 28 days. If your pothole has not been repaired within 28 days, follow up with the council using your reference number.
What happens after you report a pothole?
After you submit a report, you should receive a reference number or confirmation email. The council will assess the report and may send an inspector to the site. The pothole is then categorised by severity, and repair is scheduled accordingly. Keep your reference number as it creates a legal paper trail under the Highways Act 1980.
Is there an app for reporting potholes?
FixMyStreet offers a free app for reporting potholes on both iOS and Android. Many local councils also have their own reporting apps. PotholeUK is developing a dedicated pothole reporting app with automatic GPS tagging, guided photo capture, and measurement tools to make reporting faster and more effective.
What size pothole should be reported?
Any pothole that poses a danger to road users should be reported. Most UK highway authorities classify defects 40mm (roughly 1.5 inches) or deeper as intervention-level hazards requiring urgent repair. However, shallower potholes on busy roads, near schools, or in cycle lanes should also be reported as they still pose a risk.