Before you accept the keys
Inspect the car in daylight when possible and keep the handover record with your booking. The aim is to agree on the car’s condition before the trip, not to discover a disagreement after return.
- Photograph every side, both bumpers, wheels, windscreen and existing marks
- Record dashboard mileage, fuel level and any warning lights
- Check tyre condition, spare wheel or repair kit, jack and wheel tools
- Test headlights, indicators, brake lights, wipers, horn and air-conditioning
- Confirm the registration document and the provider’s emergency contact
Match the car to the agreement
Confirm the registration number, variant, transmission, fuel rule, mileage allowance, return time and authorised drivers. Any deposit, excess or damage responsibility should be recorded in the agreement rather than left to a verbal understanding.
Do not begin the trip with an unexplained warning light, unsafe tyre or material difference from the agreed vehicle. Ask the provider to document or resolve it first.
Make the return equally clear
At return, take another set of time-stamped photos showing the body, mileage and fuel level. Ask for written confirmation that the vehicle and keys were received, including any agreed balance or deposit status.
Keep these records until the booking and any refundable deposit are fully settled.