PROTECT YOUR HGV & PSV OPERATOR LICENCE WITH EXPERT SUPPORT
Facing a public inquiry in London? Don’t risk your Operator Licence—secure professional guidance and safeguard your business today.
London’s transport operators need thorough preparation, strong compliance records, and expert representation to navigate public inquiries held by the Traffic Commissioner successfully. At The Transport Consultancy London, our specialist team provides comprehensive support to ensure your HGV or PSV operation is fully audit-ready, well-defended, and compliant with all DVSA and London-specific requirements.
What Is a Public Inquiry for London HGV & PSV Operators?
A public inquiry is a formal investigation conducted under the authority of the Traffic Commissioner and DVSA to scrutinize the operations of HGV or PSV operators. In London, these inquiries are especially critical given the region’s strict safety and environmental standards, including the Direct Vision Standard and Safety Permit considerations.
The inquiry reviews your business records and operations, including:
- Vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness compliance, with London-specific emissions and safety rules.
- Drivers’ qualifications, hours, and adherence to tachograph rules.
- Record-keeping quality, including tachographs and maintenance logs.
- Safety and operational procedures in line with London’s regulatory frameworks.
The goal is to ensure operators meet legal safety and professional standards. Even minor compliance lapses can result in warnings, fines, or licence revocation. For London operators, a public inquiry threatens your licence, business viability, and reputation, making expert preparation essential.
Critical Insights for HGV and PSV Operators:
- A public inquiry is an official DVSA investigation into your operation.
- It can be triggered by suspected non-compliance or safety concerns.
- Operators risk fines, restrictions, or licence revocation if gaps are found.
- Regular compliance audits and professional support help protect your licence.
- Being prepared ensures your business is inspection-ready and reduces the risk of enforcement action.
Protect Your Licence: Don’t wait until a public inquiry is underway. Ensure your records, processes, and compliance systems are up-to-date, and consider expert audit and representation services to safeguard your operation. Find out more about our Compliance Audits. We also offer monthly audits to really stay on top of all your compliance and safeguard your Operator’s Licence fully.
Why Could the Traffic Commissioner Call a Public Inquiry?
In London, common triggers include:
- Repeated roadworthiness failures, such as PG9 prohibitions or low MOT pass rates.
- Failing DVSA investigations or Desk-Based Assessments.
- Regular tachograph violations or drivers’ hours infringements.
- Deficient maintenance systems, missed Preventive Maintenance Inspections (PMIs), or poor defect reporting.
- Transport Manager failings, including inadequate control or a lack of continuous oversight.
- Financial instability, insolvency, or damaged reputation.
- Convictions involving key personnel.
- Concerns raised by police, DVSA, or other regulators.
Do you have a poor MOT pass rate? Have you recently had a PG9 Prohibitions?
Public Inquiry Ahead? One Slip Could Cost Your Licence.
Even minor compliance issues can trigger warnings, suspensions, or revocation.
Act now — get a compliance audit and expert representation to stay protected.
Get in touch with The Transport Consultancy and let us help you get back on track to avoid or prepare for a Public Inquiry.
What to Expect at a London Public Inquiry
A public inquiry is a formal, legally binding hearing chaired by the Traffic Commissioner, usually held at regional offices in or near London. Key features include:
- Attendance by the operator, directors, and Transport Manager.
- Presentation of evidence from DVSA and other regulatory bodies.
- Examination of maintenance, tachograph, training, financial, and compliance records.
- Direct questioning on your operational systems and responsibilities.
- Recorded proceedings form a public regulatory record.
Possible Outcomes Include:
- No action (rare and only if fully satisfied).
- Formal warnings or licence conditions (e.g., shorter maintenance intervals, mandatory audits).
- Reduction of vehicle numbers allowed.
- Licence suspension or outright revocation.
- Disqualification of operators or Transport Managers from future licences.
How To Prepare and Protect Your London Operator Licence
Effective preparation is key to protecting your licence and business. Recommended steps:
- Conduct a full compliance audit addressing DVSA and London-specific regulatory requirements, including the Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit.
- Compile evidence of corrective actions since any issues arose.
- Organize Preventive Maintenance Inspection reports, defect logs, tachograph analysis, training records, and financial documentation.
- Demonstrate ongoing system improvements.
- Engage legal or transport compliance experts experienced in London public inquiries.
- Maintain honesty, proactivity, and responsibility throughout.
Worried About a Public Inquiry in London?
Our London specialist team offers:
- Comprehensive compliance audits tailored to local regulatory landscapes.
- Expert representation and advisory services for public inquiries.
- Assistance in assembling your defence and preparing documentation.
- Ongoing support to maintain audit readiness and reduce enforcement risk.
Remember, a single compliance slip could lead to severe sanctions or licence loss in London’s competitive, tightly regulated market. Act now—book your compliance audit and public inquiry support with The Transport Consultancy London.
Stay fully compliant, confident, and protected under the scrutiny of London’s Traffic Commissioner.