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Emergency

Rental car damage: getting the deductible back

Despite full coverage, a deductible often remains with a rental car that becomes due in case of damage. With a separate rental car deductible insurance, this amount can often be recovered. Evidence and compliance with the conditions are decisive.

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Your chances of getting your money back

Many rental contracts provide for a deductible despite a liability reduction, which you bear in case of damage. A separate rental car deductible insurance can reimburse this amount if the conditions are met.
If the deductible was charged to you wrongly or in the wrong amount, you can object to it. In the case of a justified deductible, the supplementary insurance helps.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Document the damage

    Secure the damage report, photos, and the provider's billing.

  2. 2

    2. Check the charge

    Check whether the deductible and damage amount are correct.

  3. 3

    3. Involve the insurer

    Submit the documents to your deductible insurance.

  4. 4

    4. Reclaim anything unjustified

    Object to wrong or excessive charges in writing.

How to spot the scam

  • The damage amount is not proven comprehensibly.
  • The deductible is charged higher than agreed.
  • Deadlines of the supplementary insurance are missed.

Frequently asked questions

Do I get the deductible back?

If you took out a separate rental car deductible insurance, it usually reimburses the deductible withheld in case of damage, provided the conditions are met and the necessary evidence is available. Without supplementary insurance, you bear the agreed deductible yourself.

What if the charge is too high?

Demand from the provider a comprehensible proof of damage and the billing. If the deductible is higher than agreed or the damage is not proven, object to the charge in writing and reclaim any excess charged.

Which evidence do I need?

The rental contract, the damage report, photos of the damage, the provider's repair or damage billing, and proof of the deducted deductible. With these you can support both the reimbursement from the insurer and an objection to excessive amounts.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.