Rental Handover Checklist (Printable)

Handover checklist

1. Before you sign anything

• Read what the excess is — the amount you pay before insurance starts. This number matters far more than the daily rate.
• Ask what is not covered. Single-vehicle accidents, undercarriage, tyres, glass and roof damage are common exclusions.
• Check whether the cover lapses if the driver is unlicensed for that vehicle class.
• Confirm the deposit: how much, how it is held, and exactly when it comes back.
• Refuse to leave your passport. Offer a copy, a deposit, or a different form of ID instead.
• Check the fuel policy and what it costs you if you return it differently.
• Check whether you may take the vehicle to another province, onto a ferry, or across a border.
• Photograph the whole signed contract, both sides, every page.

2. The walk-round

• Film a slow, continuous video of the entire vehicle, narrating what you see. This is the single most useful thing on this page.
• Photograph every existing scratch, dent and scuff close up, then again from further back so its position is obvious.
• Photograph all four corners, both sides, front, back and the roof.
• Photograph the wheels and tyres, including tread and any kerb damage.
• Photograph the seat, the panniers or boot, and any bodywork you cannot see while riding.
• Photograph the odometer and the fuel gauge, in one shot if you can.
• Photograph the shop's own damage sheet after they have marked it up, with their marks visible.
• Make sure every mark you found is on their sheet before you sign it. Add them yourself if the staff will not.

3. Does it actually work?

• Brakes — both, from walking pace, before you leave the forecourt.
• Lights: headlight on both beams, brake light, indicators all four, horn.
• Tyres: tread depth and whether they look properly inflated.
• Mirrors — present, tight, and adjusted for you before you set off.
• Steering and suspension: any knocking, pulling or play.
• Chain tension and general condition, on a motorbike.
• That the key locks and unlocks whatever it is meant to.

4. Paperwork that travels with the vehicle

• A copy of the registration document is in the vehicle — you may be asked for it.
• The insurance and tax stickers on the screen or plate are current.
• You have the shop's phone number saved, not just written on a receipt in your bag.
• You know what the shop wants you to do if there is an accident, and you have it in writing or in a message.

5. Helmets, if you are on two wheels

• The helmet fits — it should not rotate on your head with the strap done up.
• The strap and buckle work properly and are not perished.
• The shell is not cracked and the lining is not crushed flat.
• If it fails any of the above, buy your own. It is the cheapest safety upgrade available to you.