If you receive a damage invoice but believe the damage was already present before your trip, here’s how roadsurfer handles these situations:
Vehicle Condition Documentation
- At the start of your rental, the condition of your vehicle is carefully documented. This includes written records and photos.
- During the handover, you have the chance—and responsibility—to check the vehicle yourself. If you notice any damage that isn’t already documented, you must report it before you drive away.
Reporting Pre-Existing Damage
- Only damage that is officially recorded at handover or reported immediately can be considered as pre-existing.
- If you sign the rental agreement without noting additional damage, you confirm that the documented condition is correct.
During and After Your Rental
- Any new damage found when you return the vehicle will be compared to the original documentation.
- If the damage wasn’t reported or documented at the start, it is assumed to have occurred during your rental.
Why Documentation Matters
- Verbal statements or claims made after the rental cannot be considered unless they match the official documentation.
- The signed rental agreement and the documented vehicle condition are the contractual basis for any damage claims.
What should you do?
- Always inspect your vehicle thoroughly at handover.
- Report any missing or unrecorded damage right away.
- Make sure everything is documented before you sign the agreement.
- If you feel insecure, make pictures / a video at pick-up to have proof of the condition.
This process ensures fairness and transparency for both you and roadsurfer.