Fair Wear and Tear advice

Who are the BVRLA?

Established in 1967, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) is the trade body for companies engaged in the leasing and rental of cars and commercial vehicles.

What is considered fair wear and tear?

The BVRLA guide is an industry standard of what is considered to be fair wear and tear on your vehicle when it is returned at the end of its contract or finance agreement.

You should not incur additional charges if:

• Your vehicle has been maintained according to manufacturer standards
• Electronic features are working correctly
• You have a full set of keys and documentation
• The interior is in good condition
• The exterior has only minor surface damage

What are end-of-lease charges?

DriveElectric will not charge you for any vehicle damage that is considered fair wear and tear. You may, however, be charged for any damage that is not considered fair wear and tear.

Charges cover the cost of rectifying any damage or replacing missing items to the agreed return standard set out at the start of your lease.

How to avoid additional end-of-lease charges

It’s advisable to regularly check the condition of your vehicle. This will allow damage to be assessed and rectified as soon as possible.

Approximately three months before the end of your vehicle’s contract or finance agreement, check the condition of your vehicle against the BVRLA’s fair wear and tear guide.

To avoid any end-of-lease charges, any vehicle damage which falls outside of the BVRLA definition of fair wear and tear should be addressed or missing items replaced prior to the vehicle being returned.

How to inspect your vehicle

To ensure that you’re as objective as possible; we suggest asking a friend or colleague to help.

Choose a time and location with good light and make sure you wash the vehicle thoroughly before inspection to ensure you don’t miss any damage.

If you have any questions relating to fair wear and tear, please contact our customer services team on 01628 899 727.

Separate from Fair Wear and Tear but part of your contract hire (lease) agreement is the mileage allowance. Don't forget that if your mileage exceeds that stated on your contract then you may need to pay an additional mileage fee upon the end of your contract and when the electric vehicle is returned.