Frequently Asked Questions
What is vehicle leasing?
Vehicle leasing is a flexible and cost-effective way to enjoy a car without the long-term commitment of ownership. You also have the option to include vehicle service, maintenance and repairs in a fully maintained lease agreement, which means you can budget predictably for all your motoring costs. At the end of your contract hire agreement, you will need to return the vehicle to the finance company. There is no option to purchase the vehicle at the end of your term but you can simply replace it with another one.
How much does it cost to lease a vehicle in the UK?
The cost of leasing depends on factors such as the vehicle you choose, the contract length, mileage allowance, and whether you include options like maintenance. Your monthly payment is tailored to your individual requirements, so the best way to get an accurate price is to request a personalised quote - Contact Us.
Is leasing a vehicle cost-effective?
Leasing can be a cost-effective way to drive a new vehicle without the large upfront outlay of buying. It provides fixed monthly payments, the flexibility to change vehicles regularly, and often the option to include maintenance for easier budgeting. Whether it’s the most cost-effective choice depends on your driving needs, mileage, and how long you want to keep the vehicle.
Can anyone lease a vehicle?
Most people and businesses can lease a vehicle, but approval is subject to a credit check and meeting the finance provider’s criteria. As long as you can show affordability and a good credit history, leasing is generally accessible to both private individuals and companies.
Why should I lease a vehicle?
Leasing lets you drive a brand-new vehicle without the large upfront cost of buying. You benefit from fixed monthly payments, the flexibility to change cars regularly, and protection from depreciation since you simply hand the vehicle back at the end of the agreement. For businesses, leasing can also support cash flow, reduce capital tied up in vehicles, and in some cases provide tax efficiencies, making it an attractive option for managing company fleets.
Is leasing a vehicle right for me or my business?
Leasing can be a great option if you want predictable monthly costs, the ability to drive a new vehicle every few years, and freedom from the risks of depreciation. For individuals, it offers an affordable way to enjoy a brand-new car without long-term ownership commitments. For businesses, it helps preserve cash flow, reduce capital outlay, and streamline fleet management. Whether it’s right for you depends on your budget, mileage needs, and how often you like to change vehicles.
What is the process behind vehicle leasing?
Leasing a vehicle is simple. You start by choosing the car or van that suits your needs, then tailor your contract by selecting the lease length, mileage allowance, and any optional extras like maintenance. A credit check is carried out, and once approved, your order is placed. When the vehicle is ready, it’s delivered to you, and you make fixed monthly payments for the duration of your agreement. At the end of the term, you simply return the vehicle and, if you wish, choose your next one.
What does “In Stock” mean?
If a vehicle is displayed as in stock then it means it has already been built and will be available pretty quickly to you, usually within 2-3 weeks. You will choose from a pre-selected range of features and colours as the car will already have been built and is ready waiting for you to lease it. A factory order is a vehicle that is not in stock and has not been built yet. So this will take longer, but you get to choose your colour and any other optional extras available for the vehicle from the manufacturer’s options.
What is an Excess Mileage charge?
Excess mileage charges represent the fees you will pay to the finance provider if you go over your pre-agreed mileage allowance. The excess mileage charge is calculated at a pence per mile (PPM) rate. Put simply, the more you go over your pre-agreed mileage, the more it will cost you in excess mileage charges. Every contract will have a differing pence per mile cost which will be given to you alongside the quote and once again with the official contract documents. Some tips on avoiding the charges:
1) Be realistic with how many miles you drive in a year
2) Add some extra miles as a safety net
3) Notify the funder of any changes in circumstances to see if you can increase the contract mileage mid-way
Are there any VAT advantages for Business Leasing?
Yes there are. VAT registered businesses can claim back up to 50% of the VAT that is charged on the finance and 100% of the VAT charged on the maintenance element. Any commercial vehicle that is used solely for business purposes can claim 100% of the VAT on both the finance and maintenance.
My company needs a few cars and vans, can you help?
Absolutely yes we can. Whether you need one vehicle or a whole fleet of cars and vans, we’ll source, fund, and manage them for you. Just tell us what you need and we’ll handle the rest.
What happens at the end of my lease?
Your account manager will contact you around 12 months before your lease ends to understand your current situation and to give you any advice about your existing or new lease.
When you are 6 months from the end of your agreement, we will start the process of helping you find your next lease. Lead times for a factory order new vehicle tends to be between 12–24 weeks so being prepared is important.
You will be contacted just before the end of your lease to arrange for the vehicle to be collected, assessed for any damage to see if it all falls within fair wear and tear guidelines, and then taken from you.
What are some benefits of business vehicle leasing?
• Fixed monthly rentals making budget planning easier. Contract term and mileage allowances are flexible to suit your business needs.
• Better cash flow — you don’t have to pay for the whole cost of the vehicle and business leasing adds an additional credit line for you, freeing cash to invest in your business.
• Brand new vehicles — your drivers are representing your business in modern, safer vehicles with ever improving technology. You can change these vehicles every 2–4 years.
• No risk of depreciation — the depreciation risk is taken by the vehicle funder meaning you don’t have that concern at the end of its contract. The vehicles are also collected and disposed of for you.
Are there any drawbacks to business vehicle leasing?
• You never own the vehicle at any point during the contract period.
• You need to return the vehicle in good condition and within fair wear and tear guidelines set out by your funder. Any damage over and above this may be chargeable.
• There are mileage restrictions — you pre-agree annual mileage amounts when you take out the lease and you will be liable for any excess mileage at the end of your contract.
• Early termination costs can be expensive if you decide you need to cancel your agreement early. Costs are determined by the funder and can vary up to 50% of any outstanding rentals and arrears.
