Road Problems & Safety
What information should I give when reporting a pothole in Northern Ireland?
Give the location plus an estimate of the pothole's size and depth and explain exactly where it sits on the road or footway.
DfI Roads asks for enough detail to assess the risk of a pothole or surface defect. Useful information includes approximate size and depth, whether it is on the road or footway, whether it is near a junction and which lane it affects.
A precise description is more useful than simply naming the road.
Useful location detail can include the road name, nearby junction or landmark, direction of travel and a clear description of the defect. Only add a photo if it can be taken safely.
Research & verification
Sources checked for this answer
We use official and primary sources wherever possible rather than relying on generic AI-generated information.
nidirect - Report a pothole or other surface defect
View official source →
nidirect - Problems with roads and streets
View official source →
Information checked:
25 September 2026
