Motorists have been warned they face potential penalties of £1,000 for causing damage to rental cars this summer, with drivers urged to follow a simple hack.
A recent survey found that nearly two in five drivers (39 per cent) have discovered existing damage on their hire car at collection that was not documented on the check-out sheet.
The findings come as families prepare for the peak holiday season, with rental companies facing scrutiny over their damage recording practices.
Experts have now warned drivers to double check vehicles to ensure that any existing damage is documented to avoid being hit with fines.
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Drivers have been warned they could be fined for undisclosed car damage to rental vehicles
GETTYBen Wooltorton of iCarhireinsurance.com warned: "When a scratch can cost over £1,000 to fix, it's worth taking some photos to prove that it wasn't there from the start."
The research revealed concerning practices within the rental industry, with a third of drivers (33 per cent) being told by rental companies that minor damage does not require recording.
This casual approach to documentation has led to significant problems for consumers, with one in 10 motorists being unfairly charged for damage they did not cause, while nearly a quarter (23 per cent) have experienced disputes with rental companies.
The issue is particularly acute among younger drivers, with 44 per cent of people aged between 18 and 34 reporting disputes with hire firms.
Drivers have been urged to document existing damage on vehicles when renting a car
GETTYTrust in rental companies also remains worryingly low, with only 20 per cent of customers believing firms accurately record existing vehicle damage.
Nearly half of drivers (40 per cent) have returned vehicles without any inspection by rental staff, leaving them vulnerable to later claims.
The expert highlighted the importance of thorough documentation when collecting and returning hire vehicles.
"It's really important to check the hire car thoroughly at pick-up and drop-off and ensure all damage is documented, even minor damage," Wooltorton said.
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He added: "To enjoy your holiday without worrying about additional costs, consider stand-alone excess reimbursement insurance from an independent provider like iCarhireinsurance.com. These policies can offer much better value than those from rental companies."
The survey found that two in five drivers (39 per cent) have worried about being charged for damage they had not caused, highlighting the widespread nature of consumer concerns in the car hire sector.
Drivers are increasingly taking precautionary measures to protect themselves from unfair damage charges.
The majority (64 per cent) now mark existing damage on check-out sheets, while 59 per cent photograph vehicles at collection and 54 per cent on returns.
Car rental prices can vary depending on the provider, which will have different rules for damage
GETTYVideo evidence has also become particularly popular among younger motorists, with 46 per cent of 18-34 year-olds recording footage compared to 32 per cent overall.
Insurance costs present a stark contrast between rental desk offerings and independent providers. This summer, excess waiver cover from rental companies averages £242 for a week's hire, comprising £189 for super damage waiver and £53 fortyre and windscreen protection.
The research examined rental prices for medium vehicles across seven European destinations with major companies including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt.
The report found substantial price differences, with drivers able to save hundreds of pounds through independent providers rather than accepting rental desk offerings.
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