New figures from BCA highlight a significant rise in the number of end-of-term inspections carried out with the customer present.

The leasing industry has moved to address criticisms from some customers receiving often unexpected bills for end-of-term damage. 

BCA has noted a 27.5% rise since 2014 in end-of-term inspections undertaken in the presence of the customer.

Commenting on the trend Dean Hulse, managing director of BCA Logistics, said: “Leasing companies understand the benefits of an end-of-term vehicle inspection in the presence of the customer.

“A digital record of the vehicle at the point of inspection allows the company to both meet the requirements of treating the customer fairly and collecting an accurate condition of the vehicle that is understood and agreed by the customer.”

To meet demand BCA has recruited a team of over 100 inspectors, each with a minimum of five years bodyshop experience. The inspectors then undergo three months additional training in customer relations and inspection procedures. 

BCA thinks fleets benefit from improved customer satisfaction and see 53% of damage value repaired prior to defleet where the vehicle has been inspected prior the end of contract date.