1. Rental Qualifications and Requirements
- Age Requirement: The Renter must be at least 21 years old (in some cases, 25). Drivers aged 21–24 may be subject to a young renter surcharge and certain vehicle category restrictions.
- Driver’s License: The Renter (and any additional driver) must hold a valid driver’s license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if the license is not in French or English (or as required by provincial law) and must be valid for the entire rental period.
- Payment Card: A valid credit card or debit card in the Renter’s name is required at the time of rental for payment and security deposit purposes. The card must have sufficient available funds for the rental charges and deposit. Pre-paid cards or cash are generally not accepted for the initial deposit.
2. Rental Period, Extensions & Late Returns
- Rental Duration: Rental charges are calculated on a 24-hour basis. The vehicle is due back at the agreed date and time. Late returns may incur additional hourly charges or another full day’s rental rate.
- Pick-Up and Return Times: The Renter should pick up and return the vehicle at the scheduled times. If the vehicle is returned late, additional charges may apply. If returned earlier than expected, an early return fee may be charged.
- Extensions: If the Renter needs to extend the rental period, they must contact the Rental Company before the original return date. Extensions are subject to vehicle availability and additional payment.
- Late Return Policy: If the vehicle is not returned or extended on time, the Renter may be responsible for a late fee and additional charges until the vehicle is returned.
3. Vehicle Condition, Use & Return
- Pre-Rental Inspection: The vehicle’s condition will be documented before release. The Renter and Rental Company’s agent should jointly inspect the car for existing damage and note it in the rental form.
- Proper Use & Care: The Renter agrees to operate the vehicle in a safe and responsible manner. The vehicle must not be used for any illegal purposes, overloading, or off-road use unless authorized.
- Authorized Drivers: Only the Renter and any additional drivers listed in this Agreement may operate the vehicle. Unauthorized drivers are not covered under the insurance.
- Return Condition: The vehicle must be returned in the same condition as when rented, with normal wear and tear excepted. Excessive dirt, odors, or damage may incur cleaning fees.
- No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited in all rental vehicles. A cleaning fee will be charged if the vehicle is returned with smoke odor.
- Pet Policy: Pets are allowed only with prior approval and must be transported in a pet carrier. Excessive pet hair or damage will result in cleaning fees.
- Fuel Policy: The vehicle should be returned with the same fuel level it was rented with. If the vehicle is returned with less fuel, a refueling charge will apply.
- Mileage Policy: Rental rates typically include unlimited mileage, but some vehicles may have mileage restrictions. Exceeding mileage limits may incur additional charges.
- Emergency and Breakdown: If the vehicle breaks down, the Renter should contact the Rental Company immediately for assistance. Unauthorized repairs may result in charges.
4. Additional Drivers
- Authorization: Additional drivers must be listed in this Agreement and meet the same requirements as the Renter. Unauthorized drivers will void any insurance coverage.
- Additional Driver Fee: An additional fee may apply for extra drivers, typically around $10–$15 per day.
- Liability: The Renter and any additional drivers are jointly and severally liable for any damage, fines, or costs arising during the rental period.
5. Insurance & Damage Coverage
- Liability Insurance: Basic liability insurance is included, covering bodily injury and property damage up to the minimum legal limits in Quebec. Additional coverage options are available.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW): CDW is an optional protection that waives responsibility for damage or loss to the vehicle, subject to terms. If declined, the Renter is responsible for any damage.
- Accident Responsibility & Deductible: In case of an accident, the Renter will be charged up to $1,000 for damage if at fault. The deductible may be reduced or eliminated if optional coverage is purchased.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): PAI provides medical coverage for the Renter and passengers. It is optional and can be added for an additional charge.
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): PEC covers personal belongings in the vehicle. It is also optional.
- Roadside Assistance: Basic roadside assistance is included. The Renter may purchase optional Roadside Assistance Protection for incidents like flat tires, lockouts, or running out of fuel.
6. Restrictions on Vehicle Use
- Geographic Restrictions: The vehicle is typically limited to Quebec and other Canadian provinces. Special approval is required for cross-border travel. Unauthorized geographic use may void insurance.
- Prohibited Uses: The vehicle may not be used for illegal purposes, racing, towing, off-roading (unless authorized), or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
7. Payment Terms & Deposits
- Rental Charges: The Renter must pay for the rental at the time of pickup. Charges for the rental, damages, or late returns will be billed to the card on file.
- Security Deposit: A refundable deposit is required at pickup: $500 for credit cards or $1,000 for debit cards. This deposit will be released when the vehicle is returned undamaged.
- Payment Method: The Renter authorizes the Rental Company to charge the card on file for all rental charges, including fees for damage, late return, or additional services.
- Optional Extras & Services: The Renter may add optional services (e.g., GPS, child seats). Charges for these will be added to the final bill.
- Fuel Options: The Renter may prepay for fuel or refuel before return. A refueling fee applies if the vehicle is returned with less fuel than at pickup.
8. Changes, Cancellation & No-Show Policy
- Reservation Changes: The Renter may change the reservation, subject to availability and additional charges.
- Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made more than 24 hours before pickup are generally free. Prepaid reservations may incur a cancellation fee.
- No-Show Policy: If the Renter fails to pick up the vehicle without notice, a no-show fee may apply. Prepaid reservations will be forfeited.
- Early Termination: If the Renter returns the vehicle early, no refund will be issued for unused days. Early return fees may apply.
9. Liability and Indemnification
- Liability for Third-Party Claims: The Renter is responsible for any third-party claims for injury or property damage arising from their use of the vehicle.
- Indemnification: The Renter agrees to indemnify the Rental Company for any losses, claims, or damages incurred during the rental period due to the Renter’s use of the vehicle.
10. Changes to Terms
The Rental Company reserves the right to modify the terms of this Agreement. The latest version will apply to any future rentals, and any changes will be communicated to the Renter.
11. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
This Agreement is governed by the laws of the Province of Quebec, Canada. Any disputes will be resolved in the courts of Quebec.