Train passengers face disruption as the heatwave continues, with South Western Railway warning of delays, timetable changes, and cancellations on its London Waterloo to New Malden service. The network's trains can operate on track temperatures up to 46C, but the sun has heated steel rails to 47C, causing issues.
Other operators may also be affected this summer. Passengers should know their rights under the Consumer Rights Act and the National Rail Conditions of Travel. Most operators have a 'delay repay' policy, with some offering compensation for delays of 15 minutes.
For delays over 30 minutes, you can claim half the cost of a one-way journey; for 60 minutes or more, you should receive the full cost. Policies vary by operator. If compensation is refused, the Consumer Rights Act may apply, allowing partial or full refunds if the service lacked 'reasonable care and skill'.
Passengers can also recover consequential losses, such as taxi fares if the last train is cancelled, but must prove the loss directly resulted from the delay. Operators are not liable for extraordinary circumstances beyond their control.
