What Happens at a Lease Return?
At return, the vehicle is inspected by the leasing company or their appointed assessor. General condition, any damage, and care condition are documented.
Typical inspection points:
• Paint condition (scratches, dents, stone chips)
• Wheel and tyre condition
• Interior (upholstery, leather, trim)
• Windscreen (stone chips, cracks)
• Completeness (keys, manual, first aid kit)
• Service history
Normal Wear or Actual Damage?
Not every mark is automatically chargeable damage. There's an important distinction:
**Normal wear** (age and mileage appropriate) is generally accepted.
**Excessive wear / damage** may be flagged.
⚠️ The individual lease contract and the lessor's return conditions always apply.
Areas to Check Before Return
**Exterior:** Paint, bumpers, wheels, tyres, windscreen, mirrors
**Interior:** Seats, steering wheel, trim, dashboard
**Other:** Warning lights, documents, both keys, service history
When Can Smart Repair Help?
For small, localised damage, spot repair can be an economical solution — often cheaper than the leasing company's surcharge:
• Individual scratches
• Small paint chips
• Light bumper damage
• Certain dents
• Alloy wheel kerb damage
Our Recommendation: Have the Vehicle Inspected Beforehand
Visit us well before your return date. We check your vehicle and advise which repairs make economic sense — and what you can safely leave as is.
**[Book vehicle inspection →](/en/contact/)**
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