Operating leasing and vehicle use rules: what's normal and what's not

Operating leases are based on the principle of using the vehicle for a pre-agreed period of time. To make the whole model work fairly for both parties, there are clear rules that define how the car is to be used and in what condition it is to be returned at the end of the contract. It is the rules on the use of the car that are among the topics that people most often only address when the handover of the car is imminent. This article explains what is considered normal use, what is natural wear and tear and where the user's liability already arises.

Why usage rules in operating leases are important

Unlike ownership, an operating lease has a clearly defined vehicle life cycle. The car is returned at the end of the contract and its condition affects its future use.

The rules serve to:

maintaining fairness between the lessor and the user,
setting clear expectations from the outset,
eliminating disputes when the vehicle is handed over,
protecting the value of the vehicle.

These rules are not exceptional - they are a standard approach used across the EU.

Normal use of a vehicle in an operating lease

Normal use means that the vehicle is used for everyday driving in accordance with its intended use and without excessive strain.

Normal use is defined as:

driving in town and out of town
parking in public car parks
use of the car in normal weather conditions
standard wear and tear on the interior and exterior

An operating lease does not require perfect condition of the vehicle, but reasonable care.

What is natural wear and tear on a vehicle

Natural wear and tear is caused by normal use of the car and is to be expected. Leasing companies take it into account.

Typical examples of natural wear and tear:

Minor scratches on the paintwork
slight wear on the seats
signs of use on the steering wheel and pedals
normal tyre wear

According to European standards, wear and tear is judged according to the age and mileage of the vehicle.

What is no longer considered normal wear and tear

There are situations that go beyond normal use and may lead to additional costs at handover.

These include:

Significant dents in the bodywork
damage caused by an accident without repair
heavy soiling or damage to the interior
unprofessional interference with the vehicle
missing equipment parts

These cases are dealt with individually according to the terms of the contract.

Mileage and its meaning

An annual or total mileage limit is agreed as part of the operating lease. This is not a restriction but a fair adjustment tool.

Why mileage is important:

It influences the rate of wear and tear,
it is used to plan the life of the vehicle,
provides transparency on returns.

In practice, mileage can be set realistically according to usage.

Regular care as problem prevention

Adherence to basic care significantly reduces the risk of complications at the end of the lease.

Recommended habits:

Washing the vehicle regularly,
dealing with minor damage in a timely manner,
adhering to service intervals,
using the car in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

These steps are simple, but have a big impact on the final condition of the vehicle.

How the vehicle is handed over at the end of the lease

The handover of the vehicle is a standardised process that follows pre-known rules.

It usually involves:

visual inspection of the exterior and interior
a functional check
mileage verification
a full equipment check

The transparent process minimises unpleasant surprises.

Why there are no rules to worry about

The rules of use are not punitive. They aim for clarity and fairness.

Benefits of clear rules:

You know what is expected of you,
you avoid disputes,
you use the car naturally, not restrictively,
you are in control of the condition of the car.

Most users hand over the car without any complications.

How Payless Gigarent approaches the rules

Payless Gigarent communicates the rules of vehicle use transparently already when the contract is concluded. Clients thus know exactly what is considered normal wear and tear and how to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings at the end of the lease.

The focus is on:

clarity of terms and conditions
fair assessment of the condition of the vehicle
uniform assessment standards

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my car every day?
Yes, everyday use is perfectly fine.

Are minor scratches a problem?
No, minor visual damage is considered natural wear and tear.

What if I exceed the mileage limit?
This is dealt with according to the terms of the contract, so it is important to set mileage realistically.

Do I need to have the car serviced before handover?
Only for damage that exceeds normal wear and tear.

Is the handover inspection strict?
It is standard and based on clearly stated criteria.

Operating leases have clear rules of use
Normal wear and tear is natural and expected
It is important to observe basic care
Transparent rules reduce stress when returning the car
Most vehicles are handed over without complications

Operating leases work best when the user understands the rules and uses the car naturally. If you know the line between normal wear and tear and damage, the whole process goes smoothly and without unpleasant surprises. A properly set-up lease thus brings security both during use and at the end of the lease.

Operating lease and rules for using the vehicle