What is a disadvantage of leasing?

Leasing typically involves agreements where the lessee pays to use an asset, such as equipment or a vehicle, for a specified period without owning it outright. A key disadvantage of leasing is that it often includes fees for excessive wear and tear on the asset. This means that when the lease term is over, the lessor (the owner of the asset) assesses the condition of the leased item, and if it has sustained more damage or wear than would be considered normal, the lessee may incur additional charges. Such fees can impact the overall cost-effectiveness of leasing and can be a financial burden for the lessee if they are not careful with the usage of the asset.

In contrast, the other options provided either describe advantages of leasing—like the ability to sell the asset for profit (which is not applicable since the lessee does not own the asset), greater cash flow (as leasing typically requires lower upfront costs compared to purchasing), or no maintenance costs incurred (because maintenance is often the responsibility of the lessor)—which do not reflect the inherent disadvantages associated with leasing.