Fair Wear & Tear on Lease Cars: Complete UK Guide
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72% of lease car returns incur unexpected charges. For many drivers, those costs come as a surprise, especially when they believed they’d looked after the car properly.
If you’re driving an electric car through salary sacrifice, understanding fair wear and tear isn’t optional. Unexpected charges at the end of your lease can quickly eat into the savings you’ve made, unless you know what’s acceptable, what isn’t, and how you’re protected.
Fair wear and tear standards are set by the BVRLA and apply to all lease cars. What makes the difference is the level of support and protection you receive alongside those rules. The Electric Car Scheme combines industry-standard guidelines with Complete Employer Protection, proactive preparation support, and ongoing guidance to reduce risk for both drivers and employers.
This guide is essential reading if you’re leasing an electric car through salary sacrifice. It explains how inspections work, where EVs are assessed differently, how to avoid common charges, and how The Electric Car Scheme helps protect you from day one.
What Is Fair Wear and Tear?
Fair wear and tear is the natural deterioration that occurs when a car is used carefully and responsibly. Minor scratches, light scuffs, and gradual interior wear are expected over time. Damage caused by accidents, neglect, poor maintenance, or avoidable misuse isn’t covered. Inspectors assess whether the condition is reasonable for the vehicle’s age and mileage.
Common Misconceptions About Fair Wear and Tear
Many end-of-lease charges come down to simple misunderstandings. Let’s clear up the most common ones:
Misconception 1: "Any Wear From Normal Use Is Acceptable"
Normal use still has limits. For example, scratches over 25mm are chargeable, even if they happened accidentally.
Misconception 2: "Age And Mileage Excuse All Wear"
BVRLA guidelines apply consistently regardless of vehicle age or mileage. A three-year-old car with 60,000 miles faces the same standards as a one-year-old vehicle with 10,000 miles.
Misconception 3: "Minor Repairs Cost More Than Accepting Charges"
Lease-end charges are often higher than independent repair costs.
Misconception 4: "Interior Wear Doesn’t Matter"
While light wear from sitting and normal contact is expected, stains, burns, or tears are never considered fair wear and tear.
Misconception 5: "Electric Vehicles Have Different Standards"
Standard BVRLA guidelines apply to all lease vehicles. Electric cars actually do have additional considerations around charging equipment and battery condition that don't apply to conventional vehicles.
Misconception 6: Salary Sacrifice Schemes Have Stricter Standards
Salary sacrifice vehicles follow the same BVRLA guidelines, with added protection to reduce worry.
How Fair Wear And Tear Is Assessed
Inspections follow a structured checklist covering exterior panels, wheels, tyres, glass, interior condition, and mechanical systems. Damage is measured, photographed, and recorded in a condition report.
How The Electric Car Scheme Supports The Inspection Process
Drivers receive pre-return checklists, help with inspection scheduling, and guidance if disputes arise.
How The Electric Car Scheme Protects You From Excessive Wear And Tear Charges
One of the biggest concerns drivers have when leasing a car is what happens at the end. Even when you’ve looked after the vehicle, unexpected charges can still feel worrying, particularly if your circumstances change during the lease.
That’s why The Electric Car Scheme goes further than standard leasing. Alongside industry-standard fair wear and tear guidelines, we build in protection, preparation, and ongoing support to reduce risk for both you and your employer. The result is a salary sacrifice experience that feels more predictable, supportive, and far less stressful at handover.
Complete Employer Protection Explained
Covers unexpected damage beyond fair wear and tear
Protects employers if employment ends early
Removes excess liability and surprise costs
Source: Shutterstock
Pre-Return Inspection Support
Drivers receive guidance on cost-effective repairs, what to prioritise, and what can safely be left.
Maintenance Package Benefits
Regular servicing prevents avoidable wear and keeps vehicles within acceptable standards.
What Are The Specific Fair Wear And Tear Considerations For Electric Cars?
Electric cars are assessed using the same fair wear and tear standards as petrol and diesel vehicles, but they come with a few important additional considerations. Because EVs rely on batteries, charging equipment, and advanced digital technology, inspectors look at areas that simply don’t apply to conventional cars.
Battery Health And Degradation
Battery degradation of around 10–15% over three years is considered normal. Vehicles are maintained correctly, with guidance on charging habits that protect long-term battery health.
Source: Tesla Press Gallery
Charging Equipment Condition
Charging cables, connectors, and any supplied home equipment must be returned functional. Cosmetic wear is acceptable, but damage or missing items may result in charges.
EV-Specific Technology And Screens
Touchscreens, digital displays, software systems, and digital keys must function correctly. Keeping software up to date helps avoid inspection issues.
Regenerative Braking And Brake Condition
EVs typically experience less brake wear due to regenerative braking. Inspectors focus on correct operation rather than wear alone.
Tyre Wear On Electric Vehicles
Electric cars are heavier, which can lead to faster tyre wear. Even wear is acceptable, while excessive or uneven wear is not.
Should You Repair Damage Before Returning Your Lease Car?
Minor cosmetic repairs are often cheaper than accepting lease-end charges. Larger repairs may not be cost-effective, particularly where Complete Employer Protection applies.
How Should You Prepare Your Electric Car Salary Sacrifice Vehicle For Return?
Preparing your electric car for return doesn’t need to be stressful or time-consuming - especially when you know what to focus on and when. A bit of planning can make a big difference, helping you avoid unnecessary charges and return your vehicle with confidence.
If you’re leasing through salary sacrifice, preparation is even more important. With the right guidance and support from The Electric Car Scheme, you can take a structured, calm approach to the final weeks of your lease, knowing exactly what inspectors will look for and how to get your car ready without overspending.
12-Week Preparation Timeline
Inspect the vehicle early, measure damage, and obtain repair quotes where needed.
The Electric Car Scheme Return Checklist
Ensure charging cables, service history, keys, and software updates are complete.
Documenting Condition
Photographs, videos, and inspection reports help protect against disputes.
The Charge Scheme Equipment Return
Any supplied Charge Scheme equipment must be returned in working condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Source: Shutterstock
Does The Electric Car Scheme’s Complete Employer Protection Cover Wear And Tear Charges?
Complete Employer Protection helps cover unexpected costs, including damage charges, where circumstances require early return. This reduces financial risk for employers and employees.
Are Electric Cars Subject To Different Wear And Tear Standards?
Electric cars follow the same BVRLA standards as petrol and diesel vehicles. They also include additional checks for batteries, charging equipment, and EV technology.
What Happens To Wear And Tear Charges If I Leave My Employer During Salary Sacrifice?
Complete Employer Protection helps manage early termination costs. This prevents large, unexpected charges from falling on individuals.
How Does Battery Degradation Affect Lease-End Charges?
Battery degradation of 10–15% over three years is considered normal. Vehicles are maintained to ensure degradation remains within acceptable limits.
Can I Dispute Fair Wear And Tear Charges On A Salary Sacrifice Vehicle?
Yes, standard appeal processes apply. The Electric Car Scheme provides guidance if support is needed.
What If Charging Equipment Is Damaged When I Return The Vehicle?
Minor cosmetic wear is acceptable, but damaged or unsafe equipment may result in charges. All supplied charging equipment must be returned in working condition.
Do I Need To Return My Home Charger With The Car?
If the charger was included in your salary sacrifice agreement, contract terms will apply. Fixed home installations are usually excluded from vehicle return.
How Do Lease-End Charges Affect My Salary Sacrifice Savings?
Even with potential charges, salary sacrifice typically saves 20–50% overall. Understanding fair wear and tear helps protect those savings.
What Maintenance Helps Prevent Excessive Wear And Tear Charges?
Following the included servicing schedule prevents avoidable wear. Regular checks also identify issues early.
Are Used Electric Car Salary Sacrifice Vehicles Held To The Same Standards?
Yes, the same BVRLA standards apply. Age and mileage are considered during assessment.
What Is The Charge Scheme Equipment Requirement At Return?
Any supplied Charge Scheme equipment must be returned in working order. Lost or damaged items may incur charges.
How Does The Electric Car Scheme Help Prepare Vehicles For Return?
Drivers receive checklists, preparation guidance, and inspection support. This proactive approach avoids most common lease-end issues.
Fair wear and tear rules are fixed, but the experience doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right guidance and protection, salary sacrifice drivers can return their electric cars confidently and cost-effectively!
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Last updated: 21/01/2026
Our pricing is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.
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