Last Updated on July 26, 2025 by Michelle Couch-Friedman
False claims for car rental damage are through the roof. To protect yourself from being unfairly billed for rental car repairs, download Consumer Rescue’s free rental car inspection checklist. Print and use these pre- and post-rental checklists when you rent your next vehicle.
Used correctly, these forms, along with your video and photo documentation, are the antidote to false car rental damage scams.
Pre-rental rental car inspection checklist
Before you drive away with your rental car it is critical that you inspect it and document the vehicle’s condition. This form provides the guidelines for you to do that.
Post-rental car rental inspection checklist
Never return your rental car without carefully documenting that you’ve safely delivered it back to the correct location in the same condition it was when you picked it up. Make certain that you use the camera on your phone to provide the evidence that you may need later to defend yourself against surprise car rental damage claims.
The good news for car rental customers
If you follow Consumer Rescue’s guidance for car rental customers, the good news is that you likely will have an uneventful experience with no surprise charges later.
But if you do, never fear, Consumer Rescue is here to investigate and defend you. Send your request for help to our consumer advocacy team, and we’ll be happy to help. Our assistance is always fast, friendly, and best of all — free of charge. (Michelle Couch-Friedman, Founder of Consumer Rescue)
