Unfair Carhire Damage Claim

LilElvis

AH1234 wrote: »

Theoretically it’s possible, although extremely unlikely.

Perhaps there’s a gang of car vandals roaming rural Wales in the dead of night armed with screwdrivers. Maybe they have a secret deal with the car hire companies.

You can vent as much as you want, use sarcasm ... even swear profusely. What matters is that there is damage at the point of return - acknowledged by yourself - with no record of it being present at collection, coupled with your agreeing to make good any damage and providing the car hire company with the means with which to do so.

I can't see how you can expect to argue your way out of this charge.

AH1234

I’m resigned to the fact that I will more likely than not end up paying something. Although I’m challenging them over the scope. Damage report and photographs show only fog light broken. But I’m also being charged for the daytime running lamps even though this was not listed in the damage report and photographs show it is undamaged. Have asked them to provide photographic evidence why they had to replace 2 sets of lights.

Can they legally charge me for more than was in the damage report and photographs were showing?

AH1234

Update on the situation. I raised with them the issue of being overcharged for the additional items not included in the damage report and to provide proof. Since then I have received no acknowledgment or reply, no emails, no notification of legal action.

I think they were just trying their luck on an unsuspecting motorist. They were not expecting me to challenge them on this.

AdrianC

It's two-three weeks later, over the summer holiday period.

They have six years to pursue the debt.

AH1234

It's two-three weeks later, over the summer holiday period.

They have six years to pursue the debt.

Time will tell. Although I suspect a lot of people would’ve had excess insurance and would not worry about contesting it because they could claim it back anyway.

I should’ve taken out 3rd party excess insurance, problem is I’ve rented so many cars in the past and never had any issue before so I was complacent.

smuk

If the hire company is a member of the BVLRA it might be worth getting in touch with them about it to resolve dispute?

AH1234

Thanks I might try that.

DoaM

Bear in mind that the BVRLA isn't an ombudsman or regulator ... it's a Member's Club, so it's run for the benefit of the members (e.g. hire companies) and not the motorist.

Yes, they might be able to help - but don't hold your breath.