Which types of cover are relevant for a rental van?
| Component | Basic idea | What should you check? |
|---|---|---|
| Motor liability insurance | Damage caused to third parties with the vehicle | What liability limit applies? |
| Partial cover | Certain events such as theft or glass damage, depending on the contract | Which types of damage are included? |
| Collision / comprehensive cover | Additional protection for damage to the rental vehicle, subject to conditions | What excess and exclusions apply? |
| Additional products | May cover individual risks or supplement the excess | Who is the contracting party and how does reimbursement work? |
What does the excess mean?
The excess is the contractually agreed amount that remains with the renter. An offer with no or a lower excess often costs more. The number alone is not enough: check which types of damage it applies to and under which conditions.
Which exclusions should be checked particularly carefully?
- Roof, underbody, tyre or glass damage
- Incorrect fuelling or operating errors
- Loss of keys or documents
- Unauthorised drivers
- Driving in countries that are not permitted
- Grossly negligent conduct under the contract
- Damage caused by failure to follow load-securing or vehicle-use rules
How should the vehicle condition be documented at pick-up?
- 1
Read the handover report and any already recorded damage.
- 2
Photograph the vehicle exterior from all directions.
- 3
Check roof edges, wheels, windows, bumpers and the cargo area.
- 4
Document mileage and the fuel or charge level.
- 5
Have discrepancies confirmed in writing before departure.
What should you do after damage or an accident?
Follow the procedure specified by the rental company and the contract. Secure the scene where necessary, contact the rental company or emergency number promptly and document the incident completely.
- Secure the accident scene and call for help where necessary
- Inform the rental company or emergency number
- Observe contractual requirements regarding the police
- Document photos, details of those involved and how the accident happened
- Complete the damage report fully
- Keep documents and communication
Check a specific offer
Check all booking conditions in one place
Review insurance and excess together with deposit, driver rules, mileage and return conditions in the rental-conditions hub.
Frequently asked questions
Short and clear answers
Does zero excess cover every type of damage?+
Not necessarily. Exclusions, duties and non-covered vehicle parts can still apply.
May a helper who is not registered drive the van?+
Only if the rental agreement and provider expressly allow that person to drive.
Should existing damage be photographed?+
Yes. Compare it with the handover record and report missing entries before departure.
Should even small pre-existing damage be documented?+
Yes. Complete documentation at pick-up and return helps make the vehicle’s condition and pre-existing damage traceable.
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Transparency
Sources
- Motor vehicle insuranceBaFinBasics of motor liability, comprehensive cover and excess
- Rental cars in Germany and abroadVerbraucherzentraleConsumer guidance on rental contracts and insurance cover
- What to do after an accident in a rental carADACPractical guidance on what to do after damage
Note: This article provides general information and does not replace individual legal, insurance or professional advice. The cited original sources, vehicle documents, tariff conditions and the specific contract remain authoritative. Editorial standards · Legal notice