Find drop kerb installers near me
Search your postcode to find your local Checkatrade-approved tradespeople
Lowering the kerb at the edge of the road allows you to drive across the public pavement and safely access your private driveway.
Here's how finding approved drop kerb contractors near you works.
We also cover off dropped kerb costs including council fees.
Find the best drop kerb installers near you
It’s quick and easy to find the best drop kerb installers near you on Checkatrade.
1. Search your postcode
Enter your postcode in our search tool to browse trusted drop kerb contractors in your area.
2. Easily check and compare
View profiles, check experience, and read customer reviews. Then create a shortlist of professional drop kerb installers in your local area.
3. Get in touch
Contact your chosen local drop kerb contractor to discuss the job, request quotes, and arrange a site visit.
Search for checked tradespeople working in your area
Why use Checkatrade to find approved drop kerb contractors near you?
There's much to consider when planning for a dropped kerb outside your property:
Pipes and utilities underground
Nearby structures
Council permission
But thankfully, finding a specialist dropped kerb company for the task is alot more straightforward with Checkatrade.
That's because only trades who pass our checks and commit to upholding the Checkatrade Standard appear in our listings. So you'll know it will be a quality job, whichever tradesperson you choose.
To find checked and approved drop kerb contractors in your local area, start searching with your postcode – it's that simple.
Search for checked tradespeople working in your area
Find local drop kerb contractors near you
Hear from homeowners like you
This Southampton homeowner hired Newstone Construction for their driveway transformation:
Excellent service by Newstone Construction. Driveway including a dropped kerb installed. Work was undertaken efficiently, communication was excellent and I'm really happy with finished result.
Other driveway services you might need
Why not download the Checkatrade app, for all the tradespeople you need at your fingertips?
What does drop kerb installation involve?
Once council approval has been granted and you're received a 'vehicle crossover license', you can give the green light to your licensed drop kerb installer.
Installation steps involve:
Marking out and preparing the area
Removing the existing kerb and pavement section
Installing new lowered kerbstones
Strengthening the pavement for vehicle access
Reinstating and finishing the surrounding surface before a final inspection from the council
Remember, the pavement is public land. Work must be carried out by a council approved drop kerb contractor in line with council regulations.
How much does a dropped kerb cost (UK)?
As a guide, materials and labour are normally around £900 for two dropped kerbs, rising to £1,000 for three kerbs, and £1,200 for four.
It's worth noting that the average driveway conversion requires between three to seven kerbs to be removed.
As the local authority owns the pavement, the cost of dropping a kerb could vary depending on where you live and your council's fee structure. Bear in mind, the council will often have a preferred list of approved drop kerb contractors it uses for the job.
Additional drop kerb costs to consider
When working out how much does a dropped kerb cost will be, you'll also need to consider:
1. Planning permission
As the council owns the pavement, you will need to apply for planning permission. For a dropped kerb, this ranges between £50 - £400 depending on where you are in the UK.
2. A street work license
There may also be a street work license to pay the council, with the typical fee around £430.
3. Local council inspection
Before dropping a kerb, your local council will inspect the area to assess whether further work is needed to make it safe and compliant. This cost varies by council, but as a guide, budget around £200.
4. Removal of landscape
Following the council's inspection, they may suggest removing certain features. For example, a garden wall or a tree. You will, therefore, need to hire and budget for the relevant trades and waste removal/skip hire.
5. Other utilities
Your plans could also involve other services or utilities (e.g., phone or cable providers) moving or altering their connections, so extra charges would be due.
Wondering what a two car dropped kerb cost will be? Check out our dropped kerb cost guide. Or try our interactive drop kerb cost calculator below.
Job Estimate Calculator
Is it worth dropping a kerb?
If you live in a busy city with limited parking, taking advantage of your outdoor space makes sense. Creating off-street parking for your home offers:
Convenience
Safety
Makes your property more accessible for those with mobility issues or families with young children
Questions to ask before hiring a drop kerb installer
Installing a dropped kerb involves council approval and work on public land, so it’s important to choose the right professional. Before you agree to a quote, ask:
Are you approved by the local council to carry out dropped kerb work? – Many councils only allow authorised contractors to install vehicle crossovers
Will you handle the council application process? – Some drop kerb installers will liaise with the local authority on your behalf
What’s included in the quote? – Check whether council fees, traffic management and reinstating the pavement are included
Do you have public liability insurance? – This is essential when working on public highways
Can I see recent customer reviews or examples of similar work?
Wondering where to start with your driveway project? Whether it's with finding costs, understanding planning and regulations, or sourcing ideas, at Checkatrade, we're here to help.
Other FAQs about dropped kerbs
Do I need planning permission for a dropped kerb?
In most cases, yes, you’ll need approval from your local council because the pavement is public land. This is usually called a vehicle crossover application. Your drop kerb installer can often help with the process.
How long does a dropped kerb application take?
A dropped kerb application process in the UK can take several weeks. That's why planning for a dropped kerb is important.
How long does it take to install a dropped kerb?
Once approved, drop kerb installation usually takes one to three days, depending on the size of the crossover and ground conditions.
Is it illegal to drive over a pavement without a dropped kerb?
Yes. Driving over a full-height kerb can damage the pavement and may result in enforcement action or fines from your local council.
Is it illegal to drop a kerb without permission?
The council owns the pavement outside your property. Therefore, in most cases, you must seek planning permission before dropping a kerb.
If you drop a kerb without permission, your local authority may charge you the cost of reinstating the kerb and repairing any damage to the pavement.
Can I park across my own dropped kerb in the UK?
Yes, you can usually park across your own dropped kerb. As long as the vehicle belongs to you and you’re not causing an obstruction.
Can I install a dropped kerb myself?
No. You can’t legally lower a pavement kerb yourself. Work must be carried out by council approved drop kerb contractors and then authorised by your local council.
That said, sometimes a council may allow you to choose your own contractor once planning permission has been granted.
