Who Is Responsible for Installing a Dropped Kerb?
Installing a dropped kerb isn’t just about convenience—it’s a legal requirement if you plan to drive over the pavement to access your property. But many homeowners across the UK aren’t sure who is responsible
Installing a dropped kerb in Washington isnt just about convenienceits a legal requirement if you plan to drive over the pavement to access your property. But many homeowners across the UK arent sure who is responsible for arranging the work. Is it your job to sort it, or will the council take care of everything? Here, Driveways Washington explains everything you need to know.
What Is a Dropped Kerb?
A dropped kerb is a lowered section of pavement that allows smooth vehicle access from the road to your driveway. Without one, its illegal to drive over the footpatheven if you own the land on the other side. Thats why having a proper, council-approved installation is so important.
Who Handles the Installation?
In most cases, you, the property owner, are responsible for arranging the installation. However, the work itself must be completed by a contractor approved by your local council.
Heres how it works:
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Apply to your council for permission.
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Wait for a site inspection and approval.
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Choose a contractor from the council's authorised list.
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Pay for the full installation, including application and construction fees.
At Driveways Washington, we help you understand the entire process from start to finish and can assist you with finding an approved contractor if needed.
Can I Do It Myself?
No. Installing a dropped kerb affects the public highway and must meet strict local authority standards. If you carry out the work without permission or use an unapproved contractor, you risk enforcement action, hefty fines, and potentially having to restore the pavement at your own expense.
What If I Ignore the Rules?
Driving over a raised kerb without proper installation is considered an offence in most council areas. You could be:
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Fined by the council
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Required to remove or repair the work
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Prevented from applying again
Its always better to follow the legal route. Driveways Washington strongly advises all clients to secure the correct approvals before carrying out any modifications.
Are Tenants Responsible Too?
If you rent a property, particularly a council-owned one, youll first need written permission from the landlord or housing department before applying. Once thats granted, the rest of the process remains the same.
What Role Does the Council Play?
The councils role is to:
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Review applications
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Inspect the proposed site
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Approve or deny based on safety and regulations
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Provide a list of licensed contractors
While they regulate the work, they dont carry out the installation themselvesthats down to you and your chosen contractor.
Why Use a Council-Approved Contractor?
Only contractors approved by your local authority can legally install a dropped kerb. These contractors are:
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Trained in street works under NRSWA regulations
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Fully insured to work on highways
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Familiar with council specifications
Driveways Washington recommends only using accredited contractors to avoid legal complications and to ensure a long-lasting, professional finish.
What If I Already Have a Driveway?
Even with a driveway, youre not legally permitted to use it for vehicle access unless a dropped kerb is in place. Regularly driving over the pavement can cause damage, create hazards, and result in enforcement.
Final Thoughts
To summarise: youre responsible for applying and paying for the dropped kerb, but the actual work must be done by a council-approved contractor. The councils role is to regulate, not to build.
At Driveways Washington, were here to guide you through the process and connect you with trusted, qualified contractors who meet all local standards. Need advice or help starting your application? Get in touch with us today and lets make access to your property simple, legal, and stress-free.
