Is There a Charge for Smoking Inside the Rental Car?

During car rental many travelers are unsure of some of the conditions and policies that exist, particularly those that address smoking in a car. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the policies of the car rental companies, regardless of whether one is a smoker or not since the charges may come as a shock causing a lot of inconveniences.

Smoking Provision in Rental Car Policies

Normally rental car companies are very particular when it comes to smokers and their behavior especially when it comes to smoking within  car rentals. These policies are in this respect for a number of reasons, most of which are with a view to ensuring that their vehicles are clean and in proper condition for any client that hires them. Smoking is a problem as it stains textiles, furniture, paint, varnish, wallpaper and the like, impregnates the air with the smell and necessitates the application of thorough cleaning.

Additional Cleaning Fees

It is common for the contracts of renting these cars to include a line that states that the agreement is void if the renter smokes. In as much as the vehicle is returned smelling of smoke or with signs such as ash or burns, the renter will be charged extra for cleaning. Such fees may differ and are normally defined based on a starting minimum rate and the degree of the harm.

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How Fees are Assessed

This is something that rental providers consider when charging people for cleaning costs they consider the amount of smoke smell and other signs of smoking. Simplest might require spot cleaning fee, which might be complicated by upholstery replacement fee or deep cleaning fee. This is why it is wise to check the car before and after its usage to avert arguments concerning the amount that should be paid to cater for damages.

Non-Smoking Options

For the clients who do not smoke or who have some doubts about extra charges, most of the auto rentals provide vehicles with non-smoking guarantee. Deciding to request one of these automobiles when booking helps in getting a one that has not been used by a smoker for the entire rental period.

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Legal and Safety Considerations

Secondly, there are legal sides of smoking in rental cars which should also be considered by people. There are statutes in some parts of the world that ban smoking in any enclosed place accessible to the public which may include rental cars. Non-compliance to such laws was faced by penalties or fines.

Tips for Renters

In order to not get charged extra for smoking within a rented venue and to not face other misdemeanors, it is important that the rental agreement should be read carefully and its provisions with regard to the issue and possible penalties understood. If you do not wish to drive a smoking car, you can always pre-book a non-smoking car to be on the safe side. If you do smoke, it is advised to move out of the car to reduce impact and smell on the car interior.

Conclusion

Regarding the issue of smoking it seems that different rental car companies have different policies though it is recommended not to smoke in the car unless it is allowed. So being informed about these policies and avoiding such instances would eliminate nasty surprises and create positive tenement relations. No matter if you are a smoker or not, it is necessary to follow these rules to have a good time and guarantee a suitable environment for all the succeeding renters.