Car Hire Insurance FAQ
What is the difference between Excess, Super CDW, Non-Waiver and the Deductible?
Each car hire company tends to use different terminology, but they all refer to the same thing. When a car is hired, Collision Damage Waiver and Theft cover are included in the car rental price. However there is normally an Excess (also referred to as Super CDW, Non Waiver or Deductible) on the CDW and Theft portion of the rental agreement. This amount varies according to the car rental company, the location and the size of the vehicle, and can range in price so you need to check on the rental conditions which are shown against each of our hire vehicles.
Can I reduce the Excess?
Yes you can. You can purchase Optional Excess Insurance when you book online from our site. This Insurance will give you the benefit of avoiding ALL Excess Charges - the charge applicable to your booking will be displayed in the Optional Insurance Box when you press BOOK and prior to making payment. Most car rental companies charge an Excess. if you have a claim - typically you pay the first GBP 1,000 or so. The Excess Insurance you can purchase on line gives you complete peace of mind at just a small extra charge per day. The policy will cover up to GBP 2000 of any excess; it can be used on any vehicle type and if we can't confirm your particular vehicle you can use it with any rental company so you won't lose out. Please note: Excess Insurance is billed separately on your credit card statement and is non refundable.
Alternatively, upon collection of your vehicle you can reduce the excess by purchasing the car rental companys excess cover which is sold at the counter when you collect your vehicle. This is non refundable and often does not include damage to the undercarriage, window or tyre damage.
What happens if I do NOT purchase an additional Excess Insurance Policy either online or at the Hire Desk?
If you choose not to purchase additional insurances a pre-authorisation is required. This pre- authorisation is taken from your credit card, please see your Terms & Conditions for further details. The amount will vary for all vehicles. Please check the rental conditions on the quote page or your voucher to see the amount of the liability. A valid card in the name of the lead driver is required at the time of collection and will act as this deposit.
What is covered with the Theft Insurance?
The theft insurance provided by the car rental company covers theft of the rental vehicle only. It does not cover your personal effects, which would normally be covered by either your travel insurance or your household insurance. There is generally an Excess on the theft portion of the rental. It is this Excess which is covered by our Annual Excess policies.
Each car hire company tends to use different terminology, but they all refer to the same thing. When a car is hired, Collision Damage Waiver and Theft cover are included in the car rental price. However there is normally an Excess (also referred to as Super CDW, Non Waiver or Deductible) on the CDW and Theft portion of the rental agreement. This amount varies according to the car rental company, the location and the size of the vehicle, and can range in price so you need to check on the rental conditions which are shown against each of our hire vehicles.
Can I reduce the Excess?
Yes you can. You can purchase Optional Excess Insurance when you book online from our site. This Insurance will give you the benefit of avoiding ALL Excess Charges - the charge applicable to your booking will be displayed in the Optional Insurance Box when you press BOOK and prior to making payment. Most car rental companies charge an Excess. if you have a claim - typically you pay the first GBP 1,000 or so. The Excess Insurance you can purchase on line gives you complete peace of mind at just a small extra charge per day. The policy will cover up to GBP 2000 of any excess; it can be used on any vehicle type and if we can't confirm your particular vehicle you can use it with any rental company so you won't lose out. Please note: Excess Insurance is billed separately on your credit card statement and is non refundable.
Alternatively, upon collection of your vehicle you can reduce the excess by purchasing the car rental companys excess cover which is sold at the counter when you collect your vehicle. This is non refundable and often does not include damage to the undercarriage, window or tyre damage.
What happens if I do NOT purchase an additional Excess Insurance Policy either online or at the Hire Desk?
If you choose not to purchase additional insurances a pre-authorisation is required. This pre- authorisation is taken from your credit card, please see your Terms & Conditions for further details. The amount will vary for all vehicles. Please check the rental conditions on the quote page or your voucher to see the amount of the liability. A valid card in the name of the lead driver is required at the time of collection and will act as this deposit.
What is covered with the Theft Insurance?
The theft insurance provided by the car rental company covers theft of the rental vehicle only. It does not cover your personal effects, which would normally be covered by either your travel insurance or your household insurance. There is generally an Excess on the theft portion of the rental. It is this Excess which is covered by our Annual Excess policies.
