Lease-end fair wear and tear checklist

Walk around the car area by area and mark what looks fine, what needs a closer look and what is likely to be charged. Your answers are kept in this browser and can be printed or shared by link.

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Scratches and scuffs

Normally acceptable: Light surface marks that are short (the standard uses about 25mm as an example) and have not gone through to primer or bare metal are normally acceptable.

Usually charged: Longer or deeper scratches, and anything showing primer or bare metal, are usually charged.

Dents and paint chips

Normally acceptable: A very small dent or chip with intact paint can be within tolerance, depending on size and position.

Usually charged: Larger dents, creased panels, rust and chips that expose metal are usually charged.

Previous repairs

Normally acceptable: A repair that is hard to see, with matching paint and finish, is generally accepted.

Usually charged: Poor repairs, mismatched paint, visible filler or overspray are usually charged again.

Your summary

Work through each area above. Anything you flag appears here, ready to print.

Based on the BVRLA fair wear and tear standard, summarised in our own words. Read the official guide at bvrla.co.uk. Providers can add their own requirements, so ask yours for its current guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is fair wear and tear on a leased car?

It is the normal deterioration from everyday use over the lease term and mileage, as opposed to damage from a specific event or neglect. The BVRLA sets the industry standard for what is acceptable.

What will I be charged for when I hand back a lease car?

Damage beyond fair wear and tear: dents, deep scratches, kerbed alloys, cracked glass, interior tears or burns, missing items, and anything that would fail an MOT. Charges vary by provider.

Should I repair damage before handing the car back?

Sometimes. A cheap independent repair can cost less than the provider's charge, but a poor repair can be charged again. Get an estimate and weigh it up before the inspection.

Do small stone chips count against me?

A single small chip outside the driver's line of sight is often acceptable, but several chips or any crack are usually charged. Our checklist flags what to look at.

Who decides if damage is fair wear and tear?

Your leasing company assesses the car against the standard, usually at collection or soon after. You can ask for the BVRLA guide and query any charge you disagree with.

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