Breaking driveway rule 'could cost £100 and invalidate insurance'

Motorists are being cautioned to examine their driveways more closely, as numerous frequently overlooked problems could lead to a £100 fine or even invalidate their insurance policy. The condition of your driveway may appear insignificant, but failing to maintain it can have severe consequences.

From hidden hazards to damage that puts pressure on your tyres, an untidy or crumbling driveway could lead to fines, vehicle problems and possibly insurance difficulties.

Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, said: "People often forget about driveway maintenance when looking after their car, but it's usually the first place where small issues start to appear.

"If you've got oil leaks, worn tyres, or clutter piling up, it can lead to bigger issues down the line. A clean, organised driveway helps protect your vehicle, avoids potential legal trouble and makes summer driving that little bit smoother."

Spots of oil or other liquids often build up when a car has been parked in the same location for a prolonged time. When left untreated, these spills can become dangerous underfoot or potentially damage the driveway's surface over time.

For stubborn stains, a specialist driveway cleaning solution or degreasing product will usually resolve the issue. For fresher spills, common household items like bicarbonate of soda, washing-up liquid or even cat litter can prove surprisingly effective. It's also wise to tackle other surface hazards, such as loose stones or unstable paving slabs, which can gradually wear down your tyres. Keep things tidy to sidestep legal woes.

You may be taken aback to discover that a cluttered or overloaded driveway could lead to a fine, particularly if items or parked vehicles encroach onto public pavements or hinder visibility for other motorists.

UK law dictates that vehicles should not obstruct pavements or be parked in a way that causes inconvenience or danger. If your driveway is brimming and cars are jutting out onto the road, you could be hit with a Penalty Charge Notice of up to £100, depending on your local council.

However, this can be circumvented by ensuring all cars are parked entirely on your property and not covering kerbs or verges. If your household has more cars than space, consider applying for resident permits or rotating parking to stay within the rules.

Even though summer typically brings drier weather, poor drainage or cracked surfaces can still present issues, especially when combined with heat and tyre friction throughout the warmer months.

To ensure safety, clear debris from drains and repair any cracks or holes that may have developed over winter, as these can worsen with regular use.

Weeds may appear to be merely an eyesore, but if not dealt with promptly, they can wreak havoc on your driveway's surface. They grow between slabs and in cracks, expanding gaps and undermining the structure, resulting in an uneven surface that puts pressure on your tyres and suspension.

Weeds can hold moisture, encouraging moss and algae growth that create slippery patches and pose a safety risk. To manage this, regularly remove weeds or use a suitable weed killer that won't harm your driveway's surface.

It's also recommended to regularly sweep the area to prevent new seeds from sprouting, and consider applying a sealant if cracks have already appeared.

A poorly maintained driveway isn't just a danger to your car; it could also jeopardise your insurance. If your vehicle is damaged due to hazards like loose gravel or oil spills on your property, insurers might argue that the issue stems from neglect and could deny your claim.

Similarly, if your policy specifies that your vehicle is stored in a secure driveway but it's actually parked on an unsafe or deteriorated surface, this could be seen as a misrepresentation and affect your coverage.

To avoid problems, make sure your driveway is kept in a safe condition and matches the information you've provided to your insurer. It's a simple step that could make a huge difference if you ever need to make a claim.