Most of us have been in the position where we’ve been without a car for a short period of time. That’s why when it comes to renting a car in the meantime, there are some do’s and don'ts you need to know about. Here they are.
Do’s
1. Look for a trusted provider
Time may be of the essence, especially if your car of van has broken down unexpectedly. However, it's important to take time to find a trusted provider so you can ensure you find an affordable quality replacement in the meantime. You can ask friends and family for recommendations of car rental companies. Alternatively, you can Google car rental companies near you. Be sure to look for car rental companies with positive reviews. 4-5 stars usually indicates that most customers have a positive experience and demonstrates honesty that that company does not hide negative feedback.
2. Inspect the vehicle first
Another thing you shouldn’t rush is inspecting the condition of the car or van you will be hiring. Less reputable car rental companies may try to charge you for pre-existing damage to the car upon return of the vehicle, even if it was nothing to do with you! To avoid this, make sure you inspect the car thoroughly, documenting and taking pictures of any dents or scrapes prior to signing a car rental agreement. A good point to do this is when you’re taken to the vehicle to be shown the controls etc.
3. Read the terms and conditions carefully
The rental agreement will specify the terms of renting a vehicle which is a legally binding and enforceable agreement. Be sure that you understand and make a note of the length of your rental agreement, the times available for the vehicle to be returned and any accessibility issues to get on site. Failure to do so can mean you are unaware of hidden charges or additional costs which makes an otherwise reasonable rate jump up. Here at Skipton Self Drive we’re proud that there are absolutely no hidden charges. We include everything except the deposit in the daily rental cost, including fully comprehensive insurance for one driver, breakdown cover, unlimited mileage, and VAT. The hirer can pay more in order to reduce their insurance excess liability if they wish.
4. Do Keep Important Numbers
At Skipton Self Drive, all our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards by our own team of mechanics. However, vehicles can go wrong at any time, and accidents can happen even if they’re not your fault. For that reason, it’s always advisable you keep all the important information and numbers close at hand. Our team will give you all the relevant contact information you’ll need in the event of an emergency before you set off.
5. Return your car on time
Returning your vehicle late may result in additional charges. At Skipton Self Drive (SSD) we have a 24 hour drop box facility so as long as you park on site and drop the keys in the drop box, you’re good to go. Please note for us, the car remains your responsibility until it has been inspected upon return.
Don'ts
1. Assume insurance covers anyone
At SSD, we include comprehensive insurance for one driver as part of the daily rental cost, which included cover for accidental damage, theft and third party coverage. You may wish to purchase additional coverage for your peace of mind. In the event of any damage or theft claim on the vehicle or any third party claim made against our insurance policy the hirers excess liability is £1000. For non-UK licence holders the excess is £2000. For hirers aged 21-24 the excess is £1500. However, we offer excess protection (CDW) where the excess amount can be reduced down to £300.
Regardless, despite this being a temporary vehicle it is the law to ensure that any vehicle you drive is properly insured. Also ensure that the only person driving the car is yourself, unless you add any additional people to your rental agreement. This can void your insurance were any accidents to happen and may leave you liable for any potential damage to people or property.
2. Forget to refuel and tidy up
Another way you can find yourself facing additional charges is by forgetting to refuel the car or cleaning it. Car rental companies turn around renting cars frequently, so if you want to avoid fees, clean out any rubbish or personal belongings too. If you’re a smoker, refrain from doing so in the car too. The smell of smoke requires a deeper clean which will take more of a bite out of your wallet. You may also want to make a note of how full the tank is prior to renting and take a picture of the fuel gauge if it helps you to remember.
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3. Drive irresponsibly!
Aside from insurance, you need to ensure you treat your car hire as if it were your own. If the we incur costs due to vehicle damage such as kerbed wheels or tyres, damage to upholstery, cigarette burns, damage to aerials and mirrors etc. these will be charged back to you. This also includes overloading the vehicle or driving off road. Choose a vehicle with the load requirements for weight you need. If you’re in doubt or need an approximate cost, just ask.
We hope that this guide helps you when it comes to renting a vehicle, whether that be a car or van! If you are looking to rent a car in and around Skipton, you can find everything you need to know here, or if it’s a van you need, click here.
