13:I[2754,["2972","static/chunks/2972-6f5d56019c5c6a42.js","3868","static/chunks/app/tags/%5Bid%5D/page-e0de42c5bec059fc.js"],"default",1] 14:I[8387,["2972","static/chunks/2972-6f5d56019c5c6a42.js","3868","static/chunks/app/tags/%5Bid%5D/page-e0de42c5bec059fc.js"],"default",1] 16:I[2972,["2972","static/chunks/2972-6f5d56019c5c6a42.js","3868","static/chunks/app/tags/%5Bid%5D/page-e0de42c5bec059fc.js"],""] 15:T718,

Help! Budget Charged Us $450 to Clean Our Rental Car. Can They Do That?

When it comes to rental car cleaning fees, the answer is both yes and no.Rental car companies can charge cleaning fees, but these charges must be reasonable and justified.A $450 cleaning fee is significant and warrants careful scrutiny.

Rental car companies typically include cleaning fee provisions in their contracts for vehicles returned in an unusually dirty condition. However, normal wear and tear should not trigger these charges. Here's what you need to know about cleaning fees:

Standard cleaning fees typically range from $50 to $150
Higher fees may apply for severe cases (smoke damage, pet hair, stains)
Companies must provide documentation of the damage/condition
You have the right to dispute unreasonable charges

If you've been hit with a high cleaning fee, take these steps:

Request detailed documentation, including photos of the condition
Review your rental agreement's cleaning fee policies
File a formal dispute with the rental company
Contact your credit card company to dispute the charge
File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau if necessary

To protect yourself in the future, always:

Take photos/videos of the car before and after your rental
Get a final inspection with a staff member present
Request a written condition report upon return

While rental companies have the right to charge cleaning fees, they must be reasonable and proportional to the actual cl

Rental Car Inspection on FusePop