Many van lessees worry about what happens at the end of their lease. Will there be extra charges? How is damage handled? This is where fair wear and tear comes into play—it sets out what is considered normal deterioration and what could incur a cost.
What is Fair Wear & Tear?
A van lease usually lasts between 2 and 5 years. Over that time, your van naturally experiences some wear from everyday use. Fair wear and tear acknowledges this normal deterioration and allows for it when returning your vehicle.
It’s important to note that fair wear and tear only covers damage from regular use. Any damage caused by accidents, impacts, or neglect is not included.
About the BVRLA
The BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association) is the main trade body for UK companies providing vehicle leasing, rental, and fleet services. Their members include hundreds of organisations across the industry.
The BVRLA publishes the Fair Wear & Tear Guide, which sets the standard for what is considered reasonable wear and tear versus unacceptable damage. This guide is widely adopted across the UK leasing industry, meaning inspections of your van at lease-end are generally based on their criteria.
By following BVRLA standards, you can ensure that your van is returned in a condition that meets industry expectations, helping to reduce disputes and unexpected charges.
Who will inspect your van?
Your leased van remains the property of the leasing company. At the end of your lease, the company will carry out an objective inspection to assess the condition of the vehicle. This may be done by their in-house team or through an independent inspection service.
How to check your van before return
You can perform a preliminary inspection to avoid surprises. Here’s how:
➡️ Check in daylight: Inspect the van for dents, scratches, and chips in natural light, avoiding shadows.
➡️ Check when dry: Make sure the van is dry, as water can hide damage.
➡️ Clean inside and out: A clean van makes damage easier to spot. Dirty vehicles may have collections delayed, which can also lead to extra charges.
➡️ Inspect all panels: Examine every panel, including the roof, under the bumpers, mirrors, windows, and lights. Look along panels side-on for dents. Consider asking someone else to help for an unbiased view.
Van signage & decals
All stickers, decals, and signage must be completely removed, including any adhesive residue. If the leasing company removes them, you may be charged.
Fixing damage before return
If you find damage that may not pass inspection, consider getting it repaired by a reputable garage. Repairs should meet the standards outlined by the BVRLA. Substandard repairs can reduce your van’s value and lead to charges. Repairs should be completed at least 10 weeks before return.
Expected condition on return
Here’s a guide for what is generally acceptable and unacceptable across different areas of your van:
| Section | ✅ Acceptable | ❌ Unacceptable |
|---|---|---|
| Loading area | Small scuffs, minor scratches/dents, light bumps, normal abrasions, secured fittings | Damage affecting doors/floor, dents to wheel casing, holes, damaged interior linings or partitions |
| Vehicle body & paint | Light removable scratches (<100mm, <1mm deep), minor paint imperfections | Severe dents/scuffs, paint exposing base, corrosion, missing/broken parts |
| Tyres & wheels | Tyres ≥2mm tread, light scuffs on trims, intact wheel nuts | Tyres <2mm tread, punctures/bulges/cracks, damaged/missing trims, misshapen/rusted rims |
| Glazing & lights | Minor chips/scuffs, small stickers, minor cracks | Large cracks, broken lenses, driver-line-of-sight stone chips, improper tinting |
| Mirrors & external fittings | Light scuffs (<50mm), functional fittings, working antennas/roof racks | Cracked/broken mirrors, damaged roof racks, unsafe/improperly fitted equipment |
| Internal condition | Slight wear/indentation on seats, minor upholstery stains, small partition dents, footwell wear, discreet equipment holes | Tears, burns, large stains, broken dashboards/storage, missing partitions/seat covers |
Items to return with the van
Your van should be returned with all original items and accessories, plus:
- All keys
- Owner’s manual and documentation
- Service history (signed/stamped)
- MOT certificate (if applicable)
- Radio/navigation codes, CDs/DVDs
- Removable audio equipment
- Optional but removable fittings (tow bars, sun shades, etc.)
- Emergency equipment (jack, wheel brace, warning triangle, first aid kit)
- Spare wheels
Make sure all personal items are removed.
What happens on collection day?
When your van is collected, it should be clean and ready. The agent will:
- Perform a walk-around to spot visible damage
- Check all documentation
- Complete an electronic collection assessment and take photos
- Ask you to sign the assessment
The van is then sent for an independent fair wear and tear inspection, based on the BVRLA standards. You’ll be notified of any damage outside normal wear and tear, which could incur charges.
By following this guide, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of unexpected fees at the end of your lease.
Why leasing makes business sense
Every company depends on reliable transport, but buying vehicles outright can tie up capital and reduce flexibility. Van leasing offers a smarter alternative — a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution that keeps your business moving without the burden of ownership.
Whether you need a single van or an entire fleet, leasing with us allows you to:
➡️ Protect your cash flow – Avoid hefty upfront costs with manageable monthly payments.
➡️ Keep your fleet modern – Upgrade regularly to the latest models with advanced tech and improved efficiency.
➡️ Reduce downtime – Add optional maintenance packages covering servicing and roadside assistance. Maintenance vs Warranty: What’s the difference?
➡️ Benefit from tax advantages – Leasing can deliver VAT and corporation tax efficiencies.
➡️ Huge range of lease vehicles: Choose from a diverse range of vans and cars to fit your business or personal needs, with many in-stock vehicles available for immediate delivery.
➡️ Competitive prices: We offer some of the cheapest van leasing deals, ensuring great value without sacrificing quality.
➡️ Customisable mileage limits: Choose an annual mileage that fits your business needs.
➡️ Tailored lease terms: Flexible contract hire, finance lease, and hire purchase agreements from 12 to 60 months. What’s the difference?
➡️ Road tax included: One less thing to worry about—all our leases come with road tax covered.
➡️ Flexible fleet management: Easily scale your fleet as your business grows.
➡️ Free delivery: Get your new vehicle delivered directly to your door, anywhere in the UK.
➡️ Expert guidance: Our knowledgeable team is on hand to help you select the right van and a leasing plan that suits your needs.
➡️ Dedicated support: Enjoy personalised assistance throughout your lease, with a dedicated account manager for any queries.
➡️ 24/7 customer portal: Manage your lease easily online, track orders, check vehicle details, and contact your account manager anytime.
With flexible terms, transparent pricing, and expert support, vehicle leasing is the smart choice for businesses looking to optimise their transport needs. Let Commercial Vehicle Contracts help you find the perfect van.
