Car Hire Agreement
All car rentals are governed by a comprehensive Rental Agreement, which you will receive upon booking confirmation or at the time of vehicle collection. This document outlines the specific terms, conditions, insurance provisions, fees, and your responsibilities related to the rental. In the event of any discrepancies between these Terms and the Rental Agreement, the Rental Agreement will prevail.
Eligibility Criteria
Requirements for Car Hire
- To hire a vehicle from Car Hire in Southend, you must be at least 21 years old, although age restrictions may differ based on the vehicle type, with extra fees applicable for drivers under 25. A valid driving licence suitable for the vehicle category is required, held for the period outlined in your Rental Agreement. You will also need to present valid identification and proof of your current address. Payment information and a security deposit are necessary. Any further requirements will be detailed in the Rental Agreement.
3. Reservations and Payments
- Reservations can be made via our website, over the phone, or directly at our Southend office. A deposit may be necessary to confirm your booking. The remaining balance and a security deposit are usually payable at the time of vehicle pickup. All prices are listed in British Pounds (£) and include VAT where applicable. We accept major credit and debit cards, processed securely through trusted payment providers.
Vehicle Pickup and Drop-off
- At the time of vehicle collection in Southend, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection and report any pre-existing damage without delay. A vehicle condition report will be completed, and your signature will be required. The vehicle should be returned in the same state as it was collected, accounting for normal wear and tear. Any new damage will be evaluated and charged as appropriate. Please return the vehicle with the same fuel level as at pick-up, as refueling charges will apply if it is returned with less fuel. Late returns may result in additional fees, so inform us as soon as possible if you expect a delay. You are accountable for any parking fines, traffic violations, or charges incurred during your rental period, in addition to an administration fee.
Insurance and Liability Terms
- All car rentals come with basic third-party insurance included. For comprehensive details on coverage and excess amounts, please refer to your Rental Agreement. Additional insurance options may be offered to limit your financial liability. It is advisable to review these options thoroughly. You will be liable for any damage or loss up to the excess amount, unless additional insurance is purchased. Any damage resulting from negligence, misuse, or violation of these Terms remains your responsibility, regardless of insurance coverage.
6. Modifications and Cancellations
Cancellation and amendment policies differ based on the type of booking and the notice provided. For precise information, please consult your booking confirmation or Rental Agreement. Be aware that late cancellations or no-shows may incur additional charges.
Prohibited Activities
Prohibited Uses of Rental Vehicle
- The vehicle must not be used for any unlawful activities. This includes racing, rallying, off-road driving, or any dangerous maneuvers. Transporting hazardous materials is prohibited. The vehicle cannot be sub-let or driven by unauthorized individuals. Operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden. Additionally, it should not be used for purposes beyond its intended design, nor should passenger or weight limits be exceeded. Driving outside the specified geographical boundaries requires prior approval.
Breach of these terms may lead to rental cancellation and extra fees.
8. Liability Restrictions
To the fullest extent allowed by Southend law, Car Hire assumes no responsibility for indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages, including loss of profits, data, or business, resulting from your use of our services. Our maximum liability for any claims will not exceed the rental amount paid in the last 12 months. This does not affect our liability for death or personal injury due to negligence or fraud.
9. Local Legal Framework
These Terms are regulated by the laws of England and Wales. Disputes will be addressed exclusively in the courts of England and Wales.
10. Updates to Terms
We reserve the right to change these Terms at any time. Updates take effect immediately once posted on our website. Continued use of our services signifies your acceptance of the revised Terms.
Contact Us
For inquiries regarding these Terms, please reach out to us:
Southend Car Hire Services
Riverside Way, Southend SS1 2JX, United Kingdom
Contact Number::
443332100115