Overview

Rented a car abroad and got charged for damage? This guide walks through the entire process of filing a claim with third-party rental car insurance providers (such as RentalCover, WorldNomads, or similar services).

Why third-party rental car insurance?

Third-party insurance typically covers the excess/deductible charged by rental companies for damage, theft, or single-vehicle accidents — at a fraction of the cost.

Part 1: Essential Documents (The “Big 5”)

Before starting the claim form, gather these five documents in digital format (PDF or clear photos):

Rental Agreement / Contract

The document signed at pickup, containing:

• Primary driver’s name
• Rental period
• Excess/deductible amount (crucial!)

Final Invoice

The billing document issued after returning the vehicle:

• Must show the exact repair/damage charge (e.g., €490)
• Different from the initial rental quote

Damage Report / Check-out Form

The inspection form at vehicle return:

• Contains staff markings indicating damage location
• Core evidence that damage was acknowledged by the rental company

Proof of Payment

Credit card statement or bank transaction:

• Proves the amount was actually deducted from the account
• Screenshot showing date, amount, and merchant name

Photos of Damage

Pictures taken at the scene:

• Close-up shots of scratches, dents, or other damage
• Include wide shots showing the damage location on the vehicle

Part 2: Filling Out the Claim Form

Selecting Cause of Damage

Choose based on when the damage was discovered, not when it occurred:

Writing the Description

Use clear, factual language. Template:

“During the vehicle drop-off inspection, the rental company staff pointed out a new scratch/dent. I was not aware of this damage previously. The staff suggested it was likely caused by another car door hitting the rental vehicle while it was parked and unattended. I do not have details of the third party.”

Rental Agency Information

Claim Amount

Part 3: Common Pitfalls to Avoid

⚠️ Name Consistency

For fastest processing, ensure these three names match:

1. Claim applicant name
2. Primary driver on rental contract
3. Credit card holder

⚠️ Police Report

For minor incidents (scratches, glass, tire damage) with:

• No injuries
• No third-party dispute

A police report is not required. Select “No” when asked.

⚠️ Timeline Logic

• Incident date cannot be after vehicle return date
• If unsure when damage occurred, use the return date or day before

⚠️ Bank Details

• Not required at submission time
• After approval, the insurer sends a secure link to collect payment information (IBAN)

Part 4: After Submission

Timeline

Payment Process

1. Receive “Claim Approved” email
2. Click the secure link in the email
3. Enter bank account details (European IBAN recommended for fastest transfer)
4. Wait for funds to arrive

Summary Checklist

Before submitting, verify:

• All 5 essential documents uploaded
• Rental company name (not booking platform) entered
• Claim amount matches final invoice
• Incident date is before or on return date
• Description is clear and factual
• Names are consistent across documents

References

• RentalCover Claims Portal
• Common Rental Car Insurance Terms Explained