Renting a car can be a practical and pleasant part of your holiday or business travels. Unfortunately it can also become a very unpleasant , expensive experience. As with most activities involving human nature, there is usually some one wanting to take unfair advantage of unsuspecting innocent members of the public.
One method used by these few unscrupulous car rental operators is to charge consumers after they have left the premises, or even sometimes the country, for damage not caused by the customer. Sometimes the same damage has been charged for over and over again. Usually the claim for damage is far in excess of what would be charged by a legitimate panel beater. Some rental companies even operate their own panel shops for this extortion.
Many customers are either unwilling or unable to refute the companies claims, preferring to just go on their way without the upset and trauma of any confrontation. The result of which completely ruins the customers holiday and this is especially so as it is their last point of contact in that town or country. These companies and some of their staff are very well practised in this extortion and the following steps should be taken to avoid this situation occurring.
When you collect the rental car, even though it’s the last thing on your mind, with the excitement of arriving, greetings and embarking on your holiday, now is when you must make absolutely sure there is no damage to the hire car. This simply requires you and preferably anybody with you to take a few minutes and walk around the rental car and check for any damage. If there is any and it is not noted then you must bring it to the staff’s attention and have it acknowledged in writing. There is usually a check out form for this purpose with any damage noted. If there isn’t then the staff has to explain how you are to be covered for non existent damage after you have returned the hire car. If there is no assurance forthcoming it is probably best you look elsewhere for a rental car.
Another method hirers are resorting to is to take pictures, most of us travel with a camera on holidays so simply take a few pictures and store them in your camera for evidence later if need be. Don’t allow anyone to say simply “trust me” all will be ok.