The BVRLA has unveiled an updated HGV Fair Wear and Tear guide at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham.

Officially known as: The Industry Fair Wear and Tear Standard for Drivers and Operators of Contract Hire, Rented and Leased Vehicles over 3.5 Tonnes. The latest guide provides HGV operators with an even clearer and more transparent understanding of what constitutes acceptable wear and tear when returning a leased vehicle.

Nora Leggett, BVRLA director of member services, said: “The revisions to the HGV Fair Wear and Tear guide will ensure that vehicle leasing remains an attractive option for business customers. Fleets and individuals should not be deterred from hiring trucks through fear of end-of-contract charges, and this guide assures HGV operators of professional service from BVRLA members.”

The latest guide, which was launched to an audience of BVLRA members and operators, now explicitly highlights how leasing companies will give HGV operators information at the start of the lease or contract to help them satisfy the return standards required.

Leggett added: “Fair wear and tear occurs through normal operation of a vehicle. BVRLA members accept that commercial vehicles are working vehicles and a certain amount of deterioration is acceptable through normal usage over time. The guide makes it clearer than ever that customers will not be charged for fair wear and tear, and is backed up by our mandatory Code of Conduct and Conciliation Service.”

BVLRA members can obtain a guide through the BVLRA’s member services team.