Explaining what fair wear and tear means and why it matters.

When hiring or leasing a minibus, it’s important to understand what is meant by ‘fair wear and tear.’

This is the industry-standard guide that helps define what is considered an acceptable condition when a vehicle is returned at the end of the lease or hire contract. Having this guide ensures a fair and transparent process for both the customer and the minibus provider.

Without a clear understanding of fair wear and tear, customers can sometimes face unexpected charges—particularly if they have mistaken damage for normal use, ‘wear and tear’, but actually it is a result of accidental damage, lack of maintenance, or negligence.

This article explains what fair wear and tear means and why it matters.

What is Fair Wear and Tear?

The recognised standard for vehicle condition in the UK is set by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA).

Fair wear and tear refers to the natural and gradual deterioration of a vehicle through normal use over time. This includes everyday usage such as driving on public roads, reasonable mileage, and careful operation. Fair wear and tear does not include any damage caused by accidents, issues caused by negligence, misuse or poor maintenance.

To ensure consistency across the industry, the BVRLA publishes detailed guidance that both customers and operators rely on. You can read it here.

Why understanding fair wear and tear is important for customers

If you understand what is considered fair wear and tear at the start of your leasing/hiring contract, you can:

• Avoid unexpected charges – Knowing what falls within acceptable limits helps to avoid additional costs when returning your vehicle.
• Ensure an easy return process – A clear standard reduces disputes and ensures transparency during inspections.
• Maintain safety and performance – Keeping your minibus within fair wear and tear guidelines ensures it remains safe and roadworthy while you have it.

Fair wear and tear for tyres

While fair wear and tear applies to the entire vehicle, tyres are one of the most commonly assessed and often misunderstood areas. In many funder-maintained contract hires, maintenance provides for replacement tyres for fair wear and tear.

Acceptable, fair wear and tear, includes:

• Even and consistent wear across the tyre
• Wear that reflects normal mileage and usage
• Tread depth above the legal minimum (1.6mm for GVW 3.5 tonnes and under, 1mm for GVW over 3.5 tonnes)

What is not considered fair wear and tear on tyres includes:

• Uneven wear caused by incorrect inflation or poor maintenance
• Cuts, bulges, or sidewall damage
• Damage from kerbing or impact
• Tyres worn below the legal tread depth (1.6m for GVW 3.5 tonnes and under, 1m for GVW over 3.5 tonnes)

If you expect your tyres to be replaced under ‘fair wear and tear’, you need to ensure you do so before they are worn down beyond the legal depth requirements.

Driving with tyres below the legal limit can result in fines and penalty points (£2500 and three penalty points per tyre).  Rivervale Minibus recommend replacing tyres, or starting the replacement process, at around 3mm—especially in wetter months.

Practical tips to stay within fair wear and tear tyre guidelines

• Regularly check tyre tread depth
• Maintain correct tyre pressure
• Inspect tyres for visible damage
• Avoid harsh driving and kerbing
• Address any issues early, rather than waiting until the end of your contract

The BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guide

For a full breakdown of what is and isn’t acceptable across all areas of the vehicle, you can refer to the official guide from the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association.

This guide includes detailed explanations and visual examples, helping you clearly understand expectations before returning your vehicle.

The most important thing about reading and understanding ‘fair wear and tear’ is that it helps you to avoid any unnecessary frustration over unexpected charges when you return your minibus and allows you to do so with confidence.

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always worth checking the official guidance. If you’re a lease/hire customer of Rivervale Minibus, give us a call on 01869 253744 or email minibus@rivervaleminibus.co.uk and we will do our best to help.