Even with the best fleet partner, the moment a driver accepts a hire vehicle is the moment any defect becomes part of the conversation. A short, structured inspection protects everyone.
Pre‑drive checklist
- Documentation — V5, hire agreement, DVS permit (if applicable), insurance details
- Mileage and fuel — record at handover
- Tyres — tread depth, condition, pressure (including spare or repair kit)
- Lights — headlights, indicators, brake lights, hazards, beacons
- Glass — windscreen condition, mirrors intact and adjustable
- Wipers and washers — operational, sufficient fluid
- Brakes — feel during the first low‑speed test
- Steering — no excess play, no warning lights
- Cab — seatbelts working, dashboard warnings clear, controls familiar
Body and load space
- Floor condition
- Tail lift, fridge unit, curtain mechanism — operational
- Load restraints
- Side and rear access points
- Any pre‑existing damage photographed
What to do if something is wrong
- Don't drive away
- Photograph the issue
- Call your account manager directly
- Wait for a like‑for‑like replacement or fix
Why SVH supports this
Our pre‑hire inspection at our 21‑acre workshop is rigorous. But the second pair of eyes — yours — is part of the system. We'd always rather a problem is flagged at handover than discovered on the road.
Getting drivers into the habit
A simple inspection card in the cab, paired with five minutes at handover, is one of the highest‑ROI safety practices any fleet can implement.
Want a pre‑hire inspection card you can use? Ask your SVH account manager.
