These terms serve as a general guide and explanation. Final conditions may differ based on the appointed rental supplier, vehicle category and location.
The exact terms are confirmed once availability is secured with the relevant rental partner.
Definitions
These are the key terms used in rental contracts. Understanding them helps you know who is responsible for what.
• Renter – You, the person hiring the car.
• Driver – Only those listed in the agreement may drive.
• Vehicle – Includes the car, keys, tires, tools, accessories and documents.
• Rental Period – From pick-up until official return.
• Waiver – Optional cover that reduces your liability for damage or theft, but with exclusions.
Risk and Delivery
You are responsible for the vehicle from the moment it’s handed over until it’s officially returned and checked in.
• Inspect the vehicle immediately and report any damage or defects.
• If you don’t report issues at delivery, it’s assumed the vehicle was in perfect condition.
• You must return the vehicle to the agreed location, locked and secured.
• You are liable for any damage or loss until the vehicle is officially checked in.
Use of Vehicle
You must use the vehicle responsibly and only as allowed by the rental agreement.
• Only authorized drivers listed in the agreement may drive the vehicle.
• Do not use the vehicle for racing, off-road driving, towing (unless approved) or in areas of civil unrest.
• Always lock the vehicle and keep the keys secure.
• Do not use the vehicle for commercial transport, illegal activities or in breach of any laws.
• You are responsible for ensuring the vehicle is used on suitable roads and under safe conditions.
Payments
You are responsible for all rental charges and related costs.
• You must pay rental fees, fuel, tolls, traffic fines, admin fees and any damages.
• Credit card authorization is usually required at the start of the rental.
• All charges are payable on demand or at the end of the rental period.
• Late returns, cleaning, towing or storage fees may apply.
• You may be asked to provide proof of residence, employment or banking details.
Liability Waivers
Waivers reduce your financial liability for damage or theft, but they don’t cover everything.
• Waivers like CDW, TLW, SCDW, etc., limit your liability to a fixed amount.
• Damage to undercarriage, tyres, glass, water damage and pothole damage are usually excluded.
• Driving in breach of the agreement voids the waiver.
• You may purchase extra waivers for tyres, glass, hail or minor damage.
• Admin fees, towing and assessor fees are not covered by waivers.
Extensions
If you need more time, request an extension before your rental ends.
• Extensions must be approved before the original return time.
• Oral extensions are valid only if recorded by the rental company.
• Some companies may inspect the vehicle before approving an extension.
• Credit card rentals may have limits on the number or length of extensions.
Breach
Breaking the rental agreement can result in serious consequences.
• The rental company can terminate the agreement immediately if you breach any terms.
• You must return the vehicle immediately if asked.
• You are liable for all damages and charges until the vehicle is returned.
• Standard rates may apply until the vehicle is returned.
Civil Disturbance
Avoid driving into areas with riots, protests, or political unrest.
• Driving into such areas is a breach of the agreement.
• You are fully liable for any damage or loss in these areas.
• Waivers do not apply in these situations.
Indemnity
The rental company is not responsible for injuries, death, or property loss unless they were grossly negligent.
• You indemnify the rental company against third-party claims.
• This includes damage to personal belongings or injury to passengers.
Responsibility After Loss or Damage
If the vehicle is damaged, stolen, or involved in an accident, you must act quickly.
• Report the incident to the police and the rental company within 24 hours.
• Provide a police case number and complete a claim form within 48 hours.
• Do not admit fault or attempt repairs or towing without approval.
• Cooperate with investigations and provide your driver’s license and any notices received.
General Provisions
The vehicle remains the property of the rental company and must be treated with care.
• Do not sublet or allow unauthorized persons to drive the vehicle.
• Fuel is not included and will be charged if not returned full.
• Tampering with the odometer is considered fraud.
• You are jointly liable with any additional driver listed.
• All terms are governed by law.
Cancellation and Refunds
If you cancel your booking, cancellation fees may apply.
• No-show or cancellation within 48 hours: up to 100% of rental fee.
• Cancellation 2–7 days before pick-up: up to 50% of rental fee.
• Cancellation more than 7 days before pick-up: up to 20% of rental fee.
• Force majeure events may result in credit instead of refund.
Personal Information Consent
By signing the agreement, you agree to the use of your personal data.
• Your data may be shared with third parties for rental processing and legal compliance.
• This is done in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).