Guides

Keeper Liability Explained

Only the driver is liable for a private parking charge — unless the operator meets every requirement of POFA 2012 to transfer that liability to the keeper.

Jay, founder of ParkingHeroBy JayFounder, ParkingHero Updated 19 August 2026 5 min read

Important: You are not legally obliged to name the driver, but consider your situation carefully first.

1. The default position

The contract is formed with the driver. If the operator's paperwork fails POFA, they cannot pursue the keeper for the charge.

2. Hire and lease vehicles

Hire companies can pass liability to the hirer where the correct documents are provided. Check what was sent to you and when.

3. Company vehicles

For company cars, notices go to the registered keeper — the company. POFA still has to be satisfied for the charge to stick.

Top TipCheck every date and every required phrase before conceding liability.

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