Car & Van Leasing FAQs

Contract hire is a long-term rental of a car or van. You pay an initial rental and then a fixed monthly rental for an agreed term and annual mileage. You never own the vehicle and you return it at the end.

Personal contract hire is for private individuals, who cannot reclaim VAT. Business contract hire is for limited companies, sole traders, partnerships and LLPs, and VAT-registered businesses may be able to reclaim some or all of the VAT. Ask your accountant what applies to you.

There is no single score that guarantees approval. Finance providers look at your credit history, income and affordability, and for businesses the trading history and accounts. All applications are subject to status and credit approval.

It may be possible, but a poor credit history can mean your application is declined or that a larger initial rental is requested. Each provider makes its own decision, and we cannot guarantee approval.

If you drive more than the total mileage in your agreement, an excess mileage charge per mile is added when you return the vehicle. The rate is stated in your agreement. If you expect to go over, contact the finance provider early, as it may be possible to adjust your mileage.

It is usually possible, but contract hire is a fixed-term agreement, so an early termination charge normally applies, and it can be a significant share of the remaining rentals. Check the terms in your agreement before you sign.

Fair wear and tear is the normal deterioration expected from everyday use, such as light marks and minor stone chips. Damage beyond this, such as large dents, torn upholstery or cracked glass, can be charged for when the vehicle is returned. The industry standard is the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guide.

Yes, road tax is included in the monthly rental on our deals. Insurance, fuel and charging are not included, and servicing is only included if you add a maintenance package.

Often, but you need the finance company's written permission first. The original registration plates must be refitted before the vehicle is returned, and fees may apply.

The initial rental is the first payment on a lease, paid before you take delivery. It is usually expressed as a number of monthly rentals, and the options vary by deal. A larger initial rental generally lowers the remaining monthly rentals.