The 3-minute evidence routine that beats damage claims

At pickup

Video, not photos, one slow lap: all four corners, both sides, roof, windscreen, wheels/tyres, then interior and fuel gauge. Make sure the date/time and the number plate are visible in frame.

Compare against the condition report before driving off: every existing scratch, chip and scuff must be on it. If staff wave you off ("it's fine, don't worry"), photograph the report and email it to yourself — that timestamps it.

At return

Repeat the same lap — same order, same angles. If a staff member is present, ask them to sign or acknowledge the return condition; a return report with no damage noted is close to unbeatable evidence.

Returning out of hours? The video matters double: park in a marked bay, film the surroundings too, and keep the fuel receipt.

Paperwork to keep

Rental agreement, condition reports (both), fuel receipts, and the card statement line. Keep them until the deposit is released AND the chargeback window has passed — charges can arrive weeks later.