What might a parking company say after you appeal? Here are common replies and what you can do next. The exact wording and process vary by operator.
1. The company cancels the charge
The reply may simply say the notice has been cancelled and no further action is needed.
What to do: Keep the cancellation letter or email. If it confirms the charge is cancelled, no further appeal is needed.
2. The company cancels but defends its signs
A company may cancel the charge but also say it believes its signs and terms were clear. The tone does not change the fact that it has cancelled this notice.
3. The company rejects your appeal
A rejection is not necessarily the end. Read the reasons and check whether your letter includes details of a second-stage appeal. If the operator is a BPA member, it may provide a POPLA code. Our guide explains how to make a POPLA appeal.
Use the deadline and instructions in the rejection letter. You can also read about POFA, signage and the five-minute consideration period when deciding what points apply to your case.
4. You do not get a reply
Check the operator's code of practice and the instructions on your notice. The BPA Code sets response requirements for its members, but not receiving a reply does not automatically give you a POPLA code. Contact the operator in writing, keep a copy, and ask how to proceed if the deadline in the code has passed.
Sources
- POPLA, "Parking charges: understanding grace periods and appeal deadlines" (appeal to the operator within 28 days; POPLA within 28 days of rejection; ten-digit code; do not pay first). Primary. POPLA
- POPLA FAQs (code from the operator on request if you appealed within 28 days). Primary. POPLA FAQs
- POPLA home page (if you delay payment after losing, the operator may add charges or use debt collection). Primary. POPLA