Damage is different from fair wear and tear

The UK Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) has warned that widespread confusion over the 'fair wear and tear' of forklifts is putting companies renting trucks at risk of large and unexpected end-of-contract repair bills and acrimonious disputes.
The warning coincides with the reissue of the Fork Lift Truck Association's illustrated Fair Wear and Tear guide, which has been developed specifically for forklifts.

Association chief executive Peter Harvey explains: "Expectations when hiring and leasing cars are very well understood. From restoring damaged body work to refuelling the tank, drivers are fully aware of the costs they are likely to incur at the end of the term. However, that doesn't appear to be the case at the end of a fork lift truck contract, leading to widespread confusion and not a little acrimony."

FLTA guidance on the subject makes it clear that customers are financially responsible for any repairs outside of normal 'wear and tear' - on top of their contract hire fees. In addition, forklift users should be aware that when equipment is damaged, it can cost much more to fix than might be expected.

"A truck may be on hire as long as five years and, during this time, predictable deterioration, known as 'wear and tear', will naturally occur. Importantly, this term refers to a truck being used in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. It should not - under any circumstances - be confused with damage, which is caused by misuse or abuse," Harvey adds.

To help clear up the confusion, the FLTA has produced an unbiased 32-page illustrated guide which defines the term 'fair wear and tear' in relation to forklifts. This is exclusively available through FLTA member companies.

The Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) is Europe's largest representative body for dealers, suppliers and manufacturers of forklifts and associated equipment.