Frequently asked questions

Our shortest agreements start at one month on selected vehicles, though the majority of our fleet is supplied on terms of 3, 6, 9 or 12 months. Anything under three months usually works out better as a subscription than a fixed lease, because the initial payment on a very short fixed contract can be disproportionate.

In-stock vehicles — generally those with a GL or GPC supplier reference — can be delivered in as little as 3 to 5 working days from a signed order form and payment. If a credit line is already in place it can be sooner. Pre-order vehicles depend on the supplying fleet's schedule, and we will always give you the honest lead time before you commit.

There is an initial payment at the start of the agreement, usually equivalent to one to three monthly rentals — that is rental paid up front, not money held on account. Separately, we may also take a refundable deposit. Whether one is required is subject to status, and the amount is set by the underwriters. Both figures are shown clearly on your quotation before you commit.

No. You arrange your own fully comprehensive insurance, which gives you control over the policy, the excess and your no-claims record. We can introduce you to a specialist broker who is used to writing cover for short-term and subscription agreements if your current insurer is awkward about it.

We collect the vehicle. There is nothing to sell, no part-exchange to negotiate and no residual value risk sitting with you. Short-term vehicles are assessed against our own return standards rather than the BVRLA fair wear and tear standard. If you keep the vehicle beyond 18 months, BVRLA fair wear and tear does then apply. We follow the BVRLA code of conduct at all times.

Yes, and further than most people expect. Subscriptions and flexible leases roll on after the minimum term, and you can keep the same vehicle until it reaches three years old — no forced swaps partway through. On a fixed short-term lease we can often extend or re-contract, subject to availability. Talk to us before the end date rather than after it.

Yes. We deliver to mainland UK addresses, and collection at the end of the agreement is arranged the same way. Delivery charges vary by postcode and are confirmed in writing before you commit.

Yes. Short Car Leases is part of Cocoon Vehicles Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit-related regulated activities, and we are GDPR compliant.

No. Leasing and subscription agreements never end in ownership — that is fundamentally what makes them cheaper per month than a purchase product. If you want the option to own, you need PCP or hire purchase, which we do not offer.

Breakdown assistance is included on all our agreements. You call the number in the vehicle pack and it is dealt with. On commercial vehicles this includes commercial recovery, which matters when a van is loaded.

Usually yes, with prior written permission and often a VE103 certificate confirming you are authorised to take a hired vehicle out of the country. Ask us well before you travel, not the week before.

Yes. Additional drivers must be named on your insurance policy and meet the agreement's driver criteria. Tell us and tell your insurer before they drive.

Damage is an insurance matter. Repairs must be carried out to manufacturer standards — do not use an unapproved repairer, because a substandard repair will be recharged at the end of the agreement.

Delivery charges vary by postcode and are confirmed in writing before you commit. Collection at the end of the agreement is arranged the same way.

On a subscription, often yes. On a fixed lease it is usually possible to re-quote, though it may change the monthly figure. Tell us as soon as you realise you have got it wrong — it is much cheaper than accruing excess mileage.

Both, depending on the vehicle. Some come from our own fleet at Cocoon Vehicles; others are sourced from funders and supplying fleets. Either way you deal with us throughout.