London Underground Graffiti Complaints Surge as TfL Struggles to Contain Vandalism

London’s transport network is facing a growing challenge as complaints about graffiti on the Underground have risen dramatically over the past year, prompting renewed action from Transport for London. New figures show a sharp rise in passenger reports, highlighting frustration among commuters and increasing pressure on the capital’s transport authority to regain control of the issue.

During 2025, TfL received 364 formal complaints related to graffiti, vandalism and damage across the Underground network. This marks a dramatic increase compared with just 18 similar complaints recorded across 2023 and 2024 combined. The scale of the rise has alarmed both officials and passengers, with concerns growing about cleanliness, safety and the overall travel experience.

The Central line accounted for the highest number of complaints, with 159 reports submitted by passengers. The Bakerloo line followed with 77 complaints, while the District line recorded 22. TfL officials say these lines have been repeatedly targeted, with trains and stations frequently marked with graffiti that requires rapid removal.

A recent report presented to TfL’s safety and security panel revealed that criminal damage, largely driven by graffiti, has increased faster than any other category of crime on the network. In the second half of 2025, reported criminal damage incidents doubled, with an additional 1,452 offences compared with the previous six month period. As a result, criminal damage now accounts for around 12 percent of all reported crime across the TfL network, up from five percent previously.

TfL has responded by reinforcing what it describes as a zero tolerance approach to vandalism. The organisation currently spends around eleven million pounds each year on cleaning trains and removing graffiti, a cost that reflects both the scale of the problem and the urgency of restoring public confidence. Officials argue that visible graffiti can make passengers feel unsafe and damages the reputation of public transport.

In a statement released following a Freedom of Information request, a TfL case officer said graffiti vandalism causes significant disruption and expense. The officer explained that TfL has implemented a comprehensive response that combines increased security measures with an intensive cleaning programme. Thousands of graffiti tags are reportedly being removed every week as part of this effort.

TfL also confirmed that it is working closely with British Transport Police to prevent further incidents and identify offenders after attacks occur. According to the transport authority, early signs suggest that the enhanced response has already led to reductions in some areas, though officials acknowledge that sustained action will be required to address the issue long term.

As London continues to rely heavily on its public transport system, TfL faces mounting pressure to ensure trains and stations remain clean, safe and welcoming for millions of daily.