Does Arval have to repair the car before charging me?

No. In one decision Arval's agreement allowed it to charge for the reduction in the vehicle's value, and the ombudsman said it did not have to show a repair was done.

Will Arval pause collection while I complain?

It does not have to. An ombudsman said Arval was not required to suspend collection while a complaint was open.

How do I dispute Arval end of lease charges?

Arval emails you about end of contract damage before it invoices, and that is the moment to ask for the photographs and query individual lines. Both Arval decisions we have read went against the customer because the photos clearly showed damage past the limits, so concentrate on the lines where they do not.

Last reviewed 13 November 2026. Every figure links to its source.

How Arval handles returns

Arval uses independent inspections carried out to the BVRLA standard, and has a referral page for customers who want to dispute fair wear and tear charges.

The name on your paperwork. The agreement is with Arval UK Limited.

At a glance

How charges are notified	By email before the invoice, with an invitation to discuss them¹
How it values damage	One agreement allowed Arval to charge the reduction in the vehicle's value, not a repair cost²
Missing keys	Charged at the manufacturer's price for a replacement³
Ombudsman	Arval confirms customers can go to the Financial Ombudsman Service after referring the charges to it¹

What to check on your Arval bill

The email that comes before the invoice. Reply to it asking for the inspection report and photos.¹
A missing key charge. The ombudsman accepted it even though Arval never bought a key, so send the key if you find it.³
How the charge is described. If your agreement lets Arval charge for lost value, asking for a repair invoice will not help.²

What the ombudsman has decided about Arval

£399.67 for scuffed wheels and a missing key

Not upheld

Arval UK Limited. Car hire agreement. The customer had until 8 May 2026 to accept the decision.

Full summary Decision DRN-6280295 (PDF)

£918 for scratches to a bumper, three doors and the tailgate, and a bumper dent

Not upheld

Arval UK Limited. Car agreement on an extended lease. The customer had until 5 December 2025 to accept the decision.

Full summary Decision DRN-5896019 (PDF)

For the full process and the deadlines, see how to dispute a bill, step by step.

Handback Check is independent and is not connected with Arval UK Limited.

Quick answers

Does Arval have to repair the car before charging me?: No. In one decision Arval's agreement allowed it to charge for the reduction in the vehicle's value, and the ombudsman said it did not have to show a repair was done.
Will Arval pause collection while I complain?: It does not have to. An ombudsman said Arval was not required to suspend collection while a complaint was open.