There’s good new ahead for travelers renting cars in Europe: the five biggest renting companies have signed an agreement with the European Union on a set of common rules and procedures.
The pact, signed by Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt and Enterprise, requires a clear statement of all fees and charges as part of the price, plain language explanations of everything being charged for, and a new streamlined procedure for pre-rental inspection to avoid issues of damage claims later.
The need for a uniform procedure is clear: With multiple companies and 28 countries involved, confusion is almost a given, and is reflected in rising complaints to consumer authorities. That led EU officials to approach the rental companies. If the voluntary agreement works out, it may be extended to a formal rule later, and be imposed on other companies.
The pre- and post-inspection procedures address a common complaint, of being charged (or overcharged) for disputed damages. Under the new rules, all damages must be documented and explained, and there will be a chance to dispute the company’s claims.
