4 January, 2009
Trinity_Face

FAIR WEAR & TEAR

Welcome to our Contract Hire returns section. Here we will be highlighting the sensitive area of what is deemed "fair wear and tear" within your Lease/Contract Hire Contract.

Returning a Contract Hire/Lease vehicle could cost you more than you think. It is essential that you recognise what Condition the Contract Hire Company will expect your vehicle to be returned in at the end of Lease. If you are new to Contract hire, then it is advisable to request a copy of the return conditions schedule from your funder.

Industry Standards

Fortunately, the leasing Industry does have some uniformity when it comes to vehicle returns. The BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Authority) is an organisation that provide guidelines whichl members must comply to. Most Contract Hire/ Leasing Companies refer to the "BVRL fair wear and tear standar" published by the organisation. This publication itemise a detailed reference relating to vehicle condition

Vehicle Returns - Documentation

You are required to ensure that all vehicle documentation, including the operation manual, Service records, related information Security codes and engine/Odemeter changes  are intact and available at the end of Lease. 

Vehicle Return - Appearance

Ensure that the car is cleaned ready for inspection. This should also include the interior. Contract hire Companies have been known to bill clients for cleaning a car before inspecting it!

Vehicle Return - Keys

The full set of key's should be handed over including locking wheel nut keys and/or any remote device for the alarm system

Vehicle Return - Badges & Stickers

Any alterations to the vehicle must be rectified (made good) prior to the return. This includes marks that are left on the vehicle once stickers/ Badges have been removed. Don;t think that you will get away with the easy option. Rest assured that you will get a bigger bill if your invoiced by the Contract Hire/Lease company. The invoices will include administration cost!

Vehicle Return - Body& Paintwork Damage

It is advisable that any damage to the body / paintwork be repaired as soon as possible. This will help protect the vehicle against corrosion and further associated damage. Please observe the following guide relating to focus areas:-

Body Damage - There should be no sign of rust or corrosion & Repairs should be carried out to a professional standard.

 

  • Chips - Small areas of chipping (conducive with the vehicles age and mileage)are generally accepted
  • Scratches - Light hairline scratches (up to 25mm) are generally accepted.
  • Moulding, Wheel arch trims - Light Scuffing and score marks are generally accepted Mouldings / Trims must not be broken/Cracked or deformed
  • Windows/Windscreen - Light scratching not affecting visibility is affected. This must not affect heaing elements. Chips, Cracks and wholes are not acceptable.
  • Lamps & Lenses - All must be fully functional with no holes or  cracks
  • Door Mirros - These must work correctly with at worst minor scratches or scuff marks,
  • Tow Bars - Must be in good rust free condition. Electrics must also work correctly. A ball cover must be in place

    • Vehicle Return - Wheels & Trims

    Trims and alloys should be scratch free. If damage does occure, this should be repaired. Tyres should also be healthy with the correct tye pressure set to avoid un natural wear.

    Vehicle Return - Mechanical Condition

    The vehicle must have been serviced as per the manufacturers guidelines. All fluids should be maintained and topped up. The Vehicle service record should also be stamped by the dealer concerned.

    Vehicle Return -Inerior Condition& Trim

    The interior of the vehicle must be kept clean, and should be free of stains, burns an tears. Original seating should be present. Wear and soilig due to natural use is acceptable.

    Vehicle Return -Door Openings, Boot & Luggage Area

    Surface scoring, Light blemishes and light scratches (that reflect normal use) to sills and seals are generally acceptable. However, no areas should be torn or split

    Vehicle Return - Equipment And Controls

    - Equipment should function correctly intact  and be free of damage. If items are replaced, these should be the correct specification and fit correctly. Any holes in the dash should be repaired correctly.

    Vehicle Return - Vehicle Underside

    Any impact damage to vehicle underside is not acceptable. Catalytic converters not working due to abuse or negligence are also not acceptable