Expert-Grup

Renting a Car? Here Is What You Need to Know to Protect Your Rights

Protecția consumatoruluiTuesday, 24 June 20252554 views

Automatically translated summary. The full text is available in Romanian.

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” has published a consumer note explaining the rights and obligations of people who rent a car in the Republic of Moldova. It covers contract contents, vehicle inspection, insurance and deposits, and was produced under the national campaign “Consumer rights are my rights!”

Car rental is not regulated separately, but consumer protection legislation and the Civil Code entitle renters to clear information on conditions, price and any extra costs. A contract should name the parties, describe the vehicle, and state the duration, price, rights and obligations, conditions of use, return terms and the deposit. Most companies require 1–3 years of driving experience, in practice a minimum age of 21, sometimes with a surcharge for younger drivers.

Before signing the handover act, inspect the vehicle with a company representative, take photos and record any defects in writing. Check the mandatory equipment, tyres, spare wheel and lights. Compulsory RCA insurance covers damage to third parties but not to the rented car, so companies ask for a deposit, from EUR 50 for economy cars to hundreds of euros for higher classes. It must be stated in the contract and handed over against a written act. Optional partial or full Casco cover is also available.