How to avoid unexpected car hire 'damage' charges

EdGasket

The simple way is don't hire in the first place. I've given up hiring cars on holiday; far too much hassle and worry. Now I just sit back and take public transport or organised tours. I admit this is not much help if you need a van to move stuff though but even then you can get a 'man with van' deal instead of self-hiring.

sh0597

I guess the answer is to find a company you trust. You can try taking basic precautions but if it's a dodgy company they will keep finding loopholes.

hewhoisnotintheknow

i hire cars each week for the last couple of years

Just point out damage on them when collecting, make a note of the damage, get em to sign and get their name

no one is out to get you

EdGasket

hewhoisnotintheknow wrote: »

i hire cars each week for the last couple of years

Just point out damage on them when collecting, make a note of the damage, get em to sign and get their name

no one is out to get you

I dispute that, some definitely ARE out to get you.

Stooby2

Last time I hired a car I walked round it, videoing any marks or scratches - in their yard with the company offices / logo clearly visible in the background. Took me about 5 minutes, but I had every little dent, scrape and interior trim mark recorded.

sh0597

My friend's parents had similar also from Europecar.

thescouselander

I hire cars all the time through work and the hire car companies do like to make a little extra by playing games with damage claims etc. Consequently we're under strict instructions to check all hire cars carefully and report damage before driving off. I'd also recommend taking a few photos too.

Usually the hire company will give you a sheet with a schematic of the car and any damage clearly marked. Go round the car and make sure all defects are marked on the sheet and if any changes are needed get the sheet updated and signed before you drive of.

Al little tip - with Hertz cars there is usually a master inspection sheet under the carpet in the boot and these are usually more complete that the ones you get in the main paperwork. Other companies might do similar so worth looking out for this.

When dropping off make sure the car is inspected while you're there and don't leave without a receipt confirming everything was in order.