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Reporting a problem with a street light to your council

If you report a problem with a street light, give as much information as possible about the type of fault. For example, you should say if the light is:

• out altogether
• on in daylight hours
• flickering

If possible, include the number on the front of the lamp post. If you can’t see this, state its location or the number of the house (or shop) next to the light.

If you report a lamp post that's leaning or damaged, a council inspector will come out to look at the damage. The inspector will then decide how urgent the repair is.

Many councils run a service for emergency, out-of-hours or weekend repairs.

• Report a problem with a street light Opens new window

Improvements to street lighting

Your council should review any comments you have about street lighting in your area – for example, how it could be improved. Your council should also take into account issues like the age and condition of the existing lighting to decide what changes, if any, could be made.

• Contact your local council

Reporting a problem with traffic lights

How to report faulty or broken traffic lights depends on where you live – and the type of road the traffic lights are on. In some areas, a council may look after most traffic lights, but not all – eg on a private business park. If you are in doubt, your council should let you know who to contact.

Local roads and streets

To report a problem with traffic lights, contact your local council and give them information on the location and fault. If possible, you should include the number on the front of the traffic light column.

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Major roads – like A-roads and trunk roads

The installation and maintenance of traffic lights on larger roads is normally the responsibility of the Highways Agency. You should report any problems to them.

• Highways Agency - report a problem with traffic lights Opens new window

London roads and streets

Transport for London is responsible for the installation and maintenance of most traffic lights on London roads and streets. You should report any problems to them.

Faulty street lights on London 'Red Routes' can also be reported to Transport for London. Red Routes have a single red line banning stopping and parking during working hours – a double red line bans stopping and parking at any time.

• Transport for London - report a roadworks issue or street fault Opens new window

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