Car rental: How to choose the right company

A very important problem in recent years is, how and with which company to choose for car rental. 

Unfortunately, the legal framework in Greece instead of shielding the sector of the car rental and car marketing, creates conditions towards an unsafe environment for both the lessee and trusted rental companies.

There is an upsurge in the establishment of vehicle rental "companies", operating in a framework between legal and illegal, without respecting the basic safety rules, putting drivers and passengers at risk on a daily basis, with the result that the lessee is faced with a fait accompli and unpleasant situations.

The main characteristic of such companies is the service in places that have nothing to do with office premises, the provision of vehicles of dubious origin, vehicles older than 14 years, vehicles with foreign plates, the provision of uninsured or poorly maintained vehicles and generally a "loose and very economical" service provision.

A legitimate car rental company has an independent office facility, a legal operating license, legal vehicles registered with the relevant authorities, trusted insurance providers and roadside assistance and operates in compliance with the legal framework and with professionalism. Also a legal company serves us throughout the duration of the lease and not only at pick-up/delivery.

Of course, there is also a risk that a perfectly legitimate company may use methods and practices that create unpleasant consequences for the lessee, but in such cases the lessee has the legal means to exercise his legal rights, which is not the case when choosing non-legal companies.

What the tenant should look out for and what to avoid.

The first and foremost step in making the right choice of all the companies we deal with on a daily basis is research. By doing a research on the internet we will find enough information about almost all companies.

Once we have made our choice, we have the right to ask for a transfer to the office of the rental company and to see the vehicle in person. mode of operation. We have the right to ask for the legal operating licence.

Before we sign the lease and if we the lessee meets the car rental requirements, first we check the vehicle if it is to our liking and if it meets our quality characteristics (external and internal condition, age, tires, etc.) then technical characteristics (mechanical & electrical function of the vehicle) and finally the documents, registration, insurance policy and MOT. Also before we sign the lease, we read the terms carefully and confirm that the agreed terms are stated.

It is very important that the above steps are taken before the lease is signed, so that in case we notice anything untoward we can terminate the cooperation without any obligation to the rental company.

In addition, the lessee has the right to choose how he wishes to pay the legal fee. All legal companies are required by law to have a bank account and a POS terminal. In addition, they have the right to request and receive a legal document, receipt or invoice immediately.

Finally, the tenant is not obliged to buy additional services such as an insurance package, etc., because of pressure or intimidation.

If the lessee becomes aware of anything illegal or irregular, other than the cancellation of the transaction, he/she is advised to report the incident to the competent authorities.

In conclusion, do you consider it appropriate to have a professional relationship of trust between the parties involved? in a healthy and legal environment.