What happens after you report a problem with a road
A trained inspector visits the location to check the condition of the road or pavement and assess any risk to road users.
The inspector assesses the problem using our roads inspection policy. This helps us decide whether a repair is needed and how urgently it should be completed
We prioritise repairs based on the level of risk they pose to road users.
Priority 1: critical risk
Immediate danger to road users. Repaired within 24 hours.
Priority 2 – high risk
Significant safety concerns. Repaired within 5 working days.
Priority 3 – medium risk
Noticeable defect but not an immediate hazard. Repaired within up to 60 working days, depending on resource availability.
Priority 4 – low risk
Minor defect with limited impact. No set repair timescale. You should report the issue again if it worsens.
Priority 5 – no risk
No action required.
If the defect is assessed as lower priority:
- it remains recorded in our internal system
- our inspectors may continue to monitor it during routine inspections
- it can be reassessed if it gets worse or presents a greater safety risk
- it may be considered as part of future maintenance work
When repairs times will vary
Repair times can also be affected by:
- the type of and extent of damage
- the repair methods needed
- weather conditions
- available resources
- traffic management requirements
- other emergency work
Why a report may show as closed after inspection
A report may show as closed on the public reporting system after it has been inspected and assessed the problem. This does not necessarily mean that a repair has been completed.