Hi all

I moved in to a new flat 3 weeks ago, the flat being advertised as coming with a parking space. Nothing about the parking was specified in the contract and it didn't strike me to ask before signing (done in rush). When I got to the flat I noticed the parking notice signs and started to worry about now having a valid permit. Had a quick look around at other cars and noticed nobody had such a permit so assumed the notices were there to just deter non-residents from parking there. I assumed if I really needed a parking permit the agent would have mentioned it and asked me if I need one - silly me!

I woke up today to find a PCN from UK Parking patrol Office Ltd, for 100 pounds. Every other resident had one of these slapped on their window screen - these were put up at night.

I was horrified because this indicates to me that all residents are confused with regards to parking and there must be mismanagement at hand. I called the letting agent and they were quick to say it was my responsibility and that I never told them I had a car or needed a permit. I have now requested one and hopefully will get one soon.

I'd like to know whether I have any chance of disputing this. Understand these people are IPC members (they say they are BPA members too but I cannot find them on the BPA list for August 2018).

I have read the following on the newbie forum but do not understand what IAS is?

'Q - ''My PCN is from an IPC member, should I really not try IAS, and why not?''

A - If it's PCM then give it a go as they seem to enter 'no contests' sometimes, but otherwise, no chance unless you have something ground-shattering like proof there are NO signs up, or if they've said you were the driver/keeper and you are neither (e.g. if you are a non-driving resident and appealed instead of a family member keeper/driver, then it can be fun to expose the PPC to that fact at IAS, proving you can't drive!). Normal appeal facts like 'I was not the driver, no keeper liability' don't cut it with the IAS which is deemed to be a kangaroo court, and losing that stage will make most posters feel worse, and more worried. SO DON'T!'

Could you please advise me on this issue? Please bear in mind letting agent is unlikely to be helpful as I am to blame for not checking everything before signing the contract. Also I have no idea who owns the building I live in, as the landlord is only a leaseholder, therefore it is unlikely the landlord will be willing to tell me what his lease contract states regarding parking, even if this is likely to overrule the contract between the owners and the UKPP.

many thanks!