Rental Cars in Summer: Document Pre-Existing Damage Carefully Before Departure

Paris – 20 July 2026: Anyone renting a car during the summer holidays should document the vehicle’s condition particularly carefully before setting off. This follows reports of possible disputes over scratches or other damage that may already have been present when the car was handed over. The French competition and consumer protection authority, DGCCRF, updated its information on vehicle rentals in May 2026.

What matters is a detailed condition report confirmed by both parties. Existing dents, paint damage, missing parts or noticeable soiling should be recorded precisely. According to the DGCCRF, the document must be signed when the car is collected and returned. Without such documentation, it can become significantly more difficult for renters to reject a later claim for repair costs.

As a practical measure, it is also advisable to photograph or film the vehicle from all sides in sufficient light. Images of the wheels, bumpers, windscreen, roof and interior can supplement the written inventory. However, they do not replace the condition report. It is important that any irregularities are not merely mentioned verbally, but are explicitly entered in the rental company’s documents.

The contract also deserves particular attention before it is signed. The rental company must clearly provide information on prices, the deposit, return conditions, mileage rules, fuel costs and possible additional services. When renting at a branch, a free detailed estimate is required. For online bookings, the relevant information must be clearly available on the website.

The legally required third-party liability insurance is included in the basic rental price, but generally covers damage to third parties. Damage to the rental car itself, theft or injuries to the driver may not be covered, or may only be partially covered, depending on the contract. Additional insurance and the amount of the excess should therefore be checked before concluding the agreement. Existing credit card or private insurance policies may also already include coverage.

When returning the vehicle, the DGCCRF advises checking it again jointly, where possible in the presence of an employee. Anyone who simply leaves the keys and car in a car park outside opening hours may remain responsible until the personal handover. In addition, missing fuel, late return or additional kilometres can incur costs if the price and calculation method are stated in the contract.

If a disputed invoice nevertheless arises, renters should contact the rental company’s customer service in writing and retain copies of the contract, condition reports, photos and all invoices. If no agreement is reached, consumers can contact the relevant consumer mediator or a consumer organisation. However, the most important protection begins before the journey: Every visible pre-existing defect must be recorded clearly and in a verifiable manner.