Holidaymakers renting vehicles are being advised to take photographs of their hire cars before and after use to avoid disputes over damage and unexpected charges. A recent survey indicates that nearly half of rental car users worry about being held responsible for pre-existing damage, while about 10% say they have been unfairly charged in previous rentals.

The research, conducted by iCarhireinsurance.com, found that more than one-third of renters who inspected their vehicles prior to departure discovered damage that was not documented on the initial check-out sheet. Ben Wooltorton, an expert at the firm, emphasized that taking a few minutes to photograph any existing dents, scratches, or scuffs could help prevent costly disagreements. “When a scratch can cost £600 to fix, capturing clear evidence at collection and return can save considerable stress and expense,” he said.

The survey also revealed that over a quarter of renters were advised by rental companies that minor damage need not be noted in the paperwork. However, these seemingly insignificant defects often result in additional fees after the rental period ends. Only 15% of respondents expressed confidence that rental agencies accurately record the vehicle’s condition before handing it over.

Increasingly, renters are becoming more cautious, with over 60% now capturing photos at both handover and return, and about one-third going further by recording videos. Wooltorton recommends thorough inspections combined with time-stamped photographic or video evidence at both stages to provide objective proof of the car’s condition.

In addition to potential damage charges, drivers can face substantial excess payments if the vehicle is damaged or stolen during the rental. These excess amounts can exceed £2,000, even in cases where the renter is not at fault. Rental companies often promote “collision damage waiver” insurance at the counter, which typically costs around £246 for a week’s coverage including standard excess, tyre, and windscreen protection. However, industry experts suggest that standalone policies from specialist providers, purchased online in advance, may offer similar coverage at a lower cost.

Travelers are advised to carefully review insurance terms and coverage options before making a purchase to avoid unnecessary expenses during their rental period.