The cleaning fee is a charge that may be applied by the rental company if the vehicle is returned dirty.
The fee depends on the condition in which the vehicle is returned and may be applied even if the dirt is not excessive.
The amount and application of this fee depend on the rental company's policies and the terms agreed upon in the rental contract at the time of pickup.
When can a cleaning fee be charged?
The rental company may charge a cleaning fee if the vehicle is returned dirty, even with light dirt, if it is considered outside normal use.
That’s why taking care of the vehicle and paying attention to details during use is important. This amount is usually deducted from the credit card used for the security deposit and will be specified in the rental agreement.
How to avoid being charged the cleaning fee?
It’s important to be present during the vehicle inspection at pickup to verify the condition of the car. That way, you can return it in the same condition. Whenever possible, it is recommended to take photos of the vehicle at that moment as a record.
Attention! At the end of the rental, the vehicle must be returned in the same state of cleanliness and hygiene in which it was picked up. If you want to avoid paying the cleaning fee, you may choose to wash the vehicle yourself at a place of your choice before returning it, but remember to keep the receipt.
Can I pay for this service in advance?
Some rental companies offer the option to pay the cleaning fee in advance at the time of pickup. This option can be more cost-effective, as it helps avoid higher charges if the car is returned dirty. In some companies, prepayment of this fee is mandatory. Therefore, it’s important to check directly with the rental company at pickup to know the rules that apply to your booking.
Important: during the booking process, check whether the option to add the cleaning fee is available on the website or app. If it is available, you can add it to your reservation in advance. If the option is not available, the fee can be arranged directly at the rental company’s counter when you pick up the vehicle.