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How to Submit an IAS Appeal

Last updated: April 2026

The IAS (Independent Appeals Service) is the independent appeals body for charges issued by IPC member parking operators. If your internal appeal was rejected by an IPC member, you can escalate to the IAS within 28 days. IAS decisions are binding on the operator but not on you, meaning you can still defend a court claim even if the IAS rejects your appeal.

  • --The IAS handles appeals for IPC member operators only (not BPA members)
  • --You must exhaust the operator's internal appeals process first
  • --Submit your IAS appeal within 28 days of the internal rejection
  • --IAS decisions are binding on the operator but not on the motorist

Key Takeaways

  1. Confirm your operator is an IPC member before appealing to the IAS
  2. You need the appeal reference provided in the operator's rejection letter
  3. The IAS process is paper-based -- there is no hearing
  4. Include all evidence and legal arguments in your submission
  5. An IAS rejection does not prevent you from defending a court claim
1

Confirm Your Operator Is an IPC Member

The IAS only handles appeals for IPC member operators. Check the operator's correspondence for the IPC logo or a reference to the IAS. If the operator is a BPA member, your appeal goes to POPLA instead. Using the wrong appeals service will result in rejection.

2

Locate Your Appeal Reference

The operator's rejection of your internal appeal should include an IAS appeal reference or code. You need this to submit your IAS appeal. Check the rejection letter carefully. If no reference was provided, contact the IAS directly.

Tips

  • --The appeal reference may be called a 'code' or 'reference number'
  • --Contact the IAS if the operator failed to provide one
3

Prepare Your Appeal Submission

Write a structured submission covering each ground of appeal. Set out the facts, reference the relevant legislation or IPC Code of Practice provisions, and attach supporting evidence. Include photographs, copies of the NTK and NTD, the postmarked envelope, and any correspondence with the operator.

Tips

  • --Number your grounds and keep each one concise
  • --Reference specific IPC Code of Practice requirements where applicable

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4

Submit Your Appeal

Submit your appeal through the IAS website or by post, following the instructions provided. Enter your appeal reference, upload your submission and evidence, and complete any required forms. Save the submission confirmation for your records.

Tips

  • --Upload clear, legible copies of all documents
  • --Check that all files uploaded successfully before submitting
5

Await the Decision

The IAS reviews your appeal and the operator's response on paper. There is no hearing. You will be notified of the decision. If the IAS upholds your appeal, the operator must cancel the charge. If rejected, you retain the right to defend any subsequent court claim on any legal ground.

Tips

  • --The IAS may request additional information during their review
  • --Keep monitoring your email and post for the decision

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IAS?

The IAS (Independent Appeals Service) is the independent appeals body for parking charges issued by IPC member operators. It is the IPC equivalent of POPLA for BPA members.

How does the IAS differ from POPLA?

The IAS handles appeals for IPC members, while POPLA handles appeals for BPA members. They are separate organisations with different processes, but both make decisions that are binding on the operator and not on the motorist.

Is there a fee for the IAS appeal?

No. The IAS appeal process is free for the motorist. There is no charge regardless of the outcome.

What happens if the IAS rejects my appeal?

An IAS rejection does not prevent you from defending a court claim. The IAS decision is not binding on you. You can raise any legal defence in court proceedings.

How long does the IAS process take?

The IAS aims to process appeals within a reasonable timeframe. Timescales vary depending on caseload and the complexity of the case.

Can I appeal to both the IAS and POPLA?

No. You can only appeal to the service that corresponds to your operator's trade body membership. IPC members use the IAS; BPA members use POPLA.

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