Not every property has a straightforward driveway right up to the door. Shared access, narrow lanes, and gated entrances all need a bit of extra planning before a clearance vehicle can get to where it needs to be. This guide covers what to check and arrange in advance.
Worth confirming before the day
- Is the access shared with neighbours, and do they need to know?
- Are there width or height restrictions on the route in?
- Is there a gate, and does it need to be unlocked or opened in advance?
- Is there somewhere to turn a vehicle around, or does it need to reverse in or out?
Shared driveways and tracks
Where access is shared with one or more neighbouring properties, it’s worth giving them a heads-up that a larger vehicle will be using the route on a specific day, particularly if it might be parked for a period while loading. This is simple courtesy, and it also avoids anyone being caught by surprise or blocked in unexpectedly.
Narrow lanes and width restrictions
Rural properties in particular can have access via a narrow lane, sometimes with passing places, or a route with genuine width restrictions. Mentioning this when you enquire lets a suitable vehicle be planned for, rather than arriving with something too large for the route.
Gates and locked access
A locked gate that needs a key, code or someone present to open it is a common reason for a delayed start if it isn’t flagged in advance. Confirm:
- Whether the gate is locked, and who has access
- Any height or width limits on the gate itself
- Whether someone needs to be present to let the vehicle in
Turning and reversing
Some properties have space to turn a vehicle around; others require reversing in, out, or both. This isn’t usually a problem, but it’s worth mentioning if the access is particularly tight, so it can be planned for rather than discovered on arrival.
A checklist for restricted access
Worth confirming in advance for shared or restricted access:
Frequently asked questions
What happens if a vehicle can't fit down the access route?
This is exactly why it's worth flagging access details when you enquire — a suitable vehicle can be planned for, or items carried a short distance from a smaller vehicle if needed.
Do I need to ask my neighbours' permission for shared access?
If the access is genuinely shared, courtesy notice is generally the right approach rather than a formal requirement, though this can depend on any specific agreements covering the shared access.
What if the gate code or key holder isn't available on the day?
This is worth arranging in advance — confirming who will be available to provide access avoids a delay or a wasted visit.
Does restricted access affect the price?
It can, since difficult or restricted access affects the time and sometimes the vehicle needed for a job, similar to floor access in a flat.
Key takeaways
- Flag shared, narrow or restricted access before booking, not on the day.
- Confirm gate access and who will be available to provide it.
- Mention any width, height or turning restrictions on the route.
- A little advance planning avoids delays and lets the right vehicle be used.
See garden and outdoor clearance or barn and farm outbuilding clearance, or request a quote with details of your access route.