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Pothole Claims Against City of York Council

Last updated: 11 April 2026

City of York Council is the highway authority responsible for maintaining roads within the historic City of York. If you have been affected by potholes in this area, it's important to understand your rights and how to proceed with a claim against the council.

City of York Council's Duty to Maintain Roads - Highways Act 1980 Section 41

Under the Highways Act 1980 section 67(2)(a), City of York Council has a statutory duty to maintain its roads. This means that the council is responsible for ensuring that any potholes or other defects on the road are repaired promptly and effectively. However, under section 58 of the same act, if the council can demonstrate that it had a reasonable inspection and maintenance regime in place at the time of your damage, they may be able to defend against liability.

How to Report a Pothole to City of York Council

To report a pothole or any other road defect, visit the City of York Council’s Roads and Transport page at https://www.york.gov.uk/RoadsAndTransport. By reporting the issue promptly, you not only help ensure that the pothole is repaired but also provide crucial evidence for your claim.

Making a Pothole Damage Claim Against City of York Council

If you have suffered damage due to a pothole and wish to make a claim against City of York Council, follow these steps:

Photograph the Pothole: Take clear photos or videos immediately after encountering the pothole. Include images that show the extent of the defect as well as your car’s position relative to it.
Report It to City of York Council: Use their online reporting system at https://www.york.gov.uk/RoadsAndTransport to inform them about the pothole and provide any photographic evidence you have gathered.
Get Repair Quotes: Visit an authorised garage or mechanic to obtain repair estimates for your vehicle. Keep all receipts and invoices, as they will be essential documentation for your claim.
Submit Your Claim with Evidence: Write a formal letter to City of York Council detailing the incident, including dates, locations, and descriptions. Attach any relevant photographs, reports, and repair quotes.

What If City of York Council Rejects Your Claim?

If the council denies your claim, you still have options. Under section 58 of the Highways Act 1980, they can defend against liability if they prove that their maintenance regime was reasonable at the time of your damage. However, this burden of proof lies with City of York Council.

Should negotiations fail and the council continues to deny responsibility, you may need to escalate the matter by taking legal action in a county court. It is important to consult an independent solicitor who can provide advice tailored to your specific situation without any 'discretionary commission arrangement' (DCA).

You do not need a claims management company; handling a claim independently or with professional legal guidance ensures that you retain full control over the process and its outcomes.

Sources and References

Highways Act 1980, section 41
Limitation Act 1980
City of York Council Roads and Transport page: https://www.york.gov.uk/RoadsAndTransport

Frequently Asked Questions

What is City of York Council's responsibility for pothole damage?

City of York Council, as the local highway authority, has a statutory duty under the Highways Act 1980 to maintain roads within its jurisdiction and keep them in reasonable repair. This includes addressing dangerous potholes that could cause accidents or damage to vehicles.

How can I make a claim for vehicle damage caused by a pothole in York?

To make a claim against City of York Council for pothole damage, you should first gather evidence such as photographs of the pothole and any resulting vehicle damage. It is advisable to report the pothole to the council immediately after discovery or before it causes damage. You do not need a claims management company; handling your own claim directly can be straightforward.

Under what legal provision does City of York Council have to maintain roads?

City of York Council’s responsibility to maintain its roads and prevent potholes falls under Section 41 of the Highways Act 1980. This section outlines that local authorities must keep highways in a state of repair that is reasonable considering all circumstances, including traffic volume and road conditions.

What kind of evidence do I need to prove my pothole damage claim against City of York Council?

To substantiate your claim for pothole damage against the City of York Council, you will need several pieces of evidence. This includes clear photographs taken at the time or as soon as possible after the incident showing the condition and location of the pothole. Additionally, obtain repair quotes from a qualified mechanic detailing the extent of the vehicle's damage directly attributable to the pothole.

Important: MLJ.org.uk is an independent information resource. We are not a claims management company, solicitor, law firm, or financial adviser. We do not process claims, take fees, or provide advice. Where the law gives you a right to complain or claim directly (to a lender, council, FOS, court, or regulator), you can do so without paying a third party. MLJ.org.uk is operated by Copious Ltd, registered in England and Wales, company number 11437826.