Drivers face £160 fines with 2.3 million being sent out to motorists

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Tradespeople across the UK are struggling with costly parking problems, according to new research from Direct Line business insurance. Over the past year, tradespeople are estimated to have been issued with 2.3 million parking tickets and fines, amounting to approximately £119 million, highlighting the ongoing challenge of finding legal parking near job sites. Over four in five (81%) tradespeople say that they find it hard to park at least once a week when on a job, with 75% not finding parking close to their workplace at least once a week. Almost half (48%) have turned down jobs because they couldn’t park within sight of their job site, citing concerns about tool theft. READ MORE Mortgage warning for UK households as they risk being 'squeezed' Tradespeople often struggle to unload and move heavy tools, equipment and supplies when they are unable to park close to where they are working. This is especially the case in urban areas where numerous parking and unloading restrictions apply. This not only results in delays and frustration but also takes a financial toll with tradespeople who are paying an average of £443 out of their own pocket in a typical year to park at jobs, and some are spending as much as £6,000 a year on parking. Depending on the severity of the parking contravention, Penalty Charge Notices, or parking fines, can be anywhere between £50 - £130 each outside London and up to £160 in the capital, but are normally halved if paid within 14 days. Almost three in 10 (28%) tradespeople report that they have been clamped or towed whilst on the job. Mark Summerville, Product Manager at Direct Line business insurance says: “Parking or off-loading tools and equipment close to a job can often be a challenge for tradespeople, adding stress to their working day. “To avoid unnecessary fines and disruptions, it’s worth checking local parking restrictions before starting a job. "Where possible, always check with the customer about on-street parking restrictions in the area and request a guest or visitor permit if available. "Taking these steps can help reduce the risk of unexpected costs and delays, allowing tradespeople to focus on getting the job done.”