Vehicle Inspection

Checking your rental car

When you collect the car, you'll receive a Vehicle Condition Report listing any existing damage. Compare the report with the car. If you find damage that isn't listed, tell the rental company's staff so they can add it to the report. Many customers also take photos of the car before they leave.

When you pick up the car

• Check the wheels for scratches, which are common.
• Check the windscreen and windows for chips or cracks.
• Walk around the car and look from different angles for dents that are hard to see.
• Ask the staff how they treat small marks, such as tiny chips and light scratches. Rental companies often treat these as normal wear and tear, but check before you leave.

If the car is damaged or stolen during your hire, or new damage is found when you return it, you can be responsible for the cost, even if it wasn't your fault. How much you pay depends on your excess and cover. If you take the car to restricted areas or use it outside the rental agreement, your cover can be void, and you can be liable for the full cost.

When you return the car

A rental company representative will check the car for new damage. If they find any, they'll give you an updated Vehicle Condition Report and an estimate of the repair cost. For significant damage, a third-party assessment may be needed. Ask how the final charge is worked out and whether you'll be refunded if the repair costs less than the estimate.

If you aren't there for the inspection, the rental company will tell you about any new damage, with supporting photos, and may charge your card for the repairs. See unexpected additional charges if a charge arrives after your hire.

Next steps

• Different vehicle than expected: what to check if the car isn't what you expected
• Returning Your Car: drop-off and charges after your hire

Part of Picking Up Your Car in the Car Hire Handbook.