Thanks for the replies so far. We also have a currency rule. At my last club (the one with no annual check requirement), it was IIRC, 28 days, and no set down format for the handling check which was ordinarily carried out by an instructor and was charged for.
My current club (the one that requires an annual check) have aligned currency with the 90-day rule for the carriage of passengers . . ..
Both clubs required a check before going foreign, which does appear standard.
Any further contributions on the subject are welcome!