Legal restrictions in the UK
Electric scooters are classified as "powered transporters" under UK law. This means:
Privately owned e-scooters
It is illegal to ride your own electric scooter on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes.
Privately owned e-scooters can only be used on private land, and only with the landowner’s permission.
Rental e-scooters
Rental scooters provided through government-approved trials can be used on public roads and cycle lanes.
They must not be ridden on pavements.
Riders usually need at least a provisional driving licence.
Refer to the official UK government guidance for full details.
Lender Guarantee: what is covered
The Lender Guarantee provides protection when a scooter is damaged during a rental, but there are limits based on usage and maintenance.
Covered
Damage caused by sudden and unforeseen external events during a verified rental.
Damage due to clear misuse by the borrower, as long as guarantee conditions are met.
Punctures in solid (hard) tyres, provided maintenance criteria are met.
Not covered
Flat tyres or punctures caused by poor maintenance or normal wear and tear.
This typically includes pneumatic (air-filled) tyres.
Pre-existing damage or issues resulting from poor upkeep.
Damage caused by mechanical faults, cosmetic wear, or expected use.
Tyre maintenance responsibilities
Lenders are responsible for maintaining their scooters. This includes:
Keeping pneumatic tyres properly inflated.
Replacing worn or damaged tyres when needed.
Considering switching to solid tyres if punctures are a common issue.
Solid tyres cannot go flat and require less upkeep, although they may offer a firmer ride compared to air-filled tyres.
Replacing pneumatic tyres with solid ones
You can switch to solid tyres by:
Visiting your nearest scooter retailer.
Ordering compatible tyres online from a trusted seller.
Make sure the replacement tyres match your scooter’s model and size specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ride an electric scooter on the pavement?
No. Riding on pavements is illegal for both private and rental scooters in the UK.
What happens if a borrower damages my scooter?
If the damage is clearly due to misuse and all guarantee conditions are met, the Lender Guarantee will apply.
Are solid tyres better than air-filled ones?
Solid tyres are puncture-proof and lower maintenance. Pneumatic tyres offer a more cushioned ride. The right choice depends on your needs and riding conditions.