By the H.B.S. Rent a Car team · Published · Updated
The daily rate is only one part of what a car rental costs. Distance, fuel, a driver, tolls, a deposit and the length of the hire all change the final figure. This guide explains each element so that you can compare quotes properly, followed by a checklist for the pickup and the return. For the full overview of options see rent a car in Sri Lanka.
What decides the daily price
Rental prices at H.B.S. are set per vehicle and shown on the vehicle's page in the car list. Three factors move the price more than any other.
- The vehicle: a small hatchback costs less than a hybrid sedan, which costs less than an SUV, a van or a European executive car.
- The length of the hire: longer hires are priced at a lower rate per day, so a week costs less per day than a single day, and a month costs less again. Weekly and monthly rates are shown on the car page.
- The season and demand: December to March, the Kandy Esala Perahera period in July or August, and public holidays are busy. Book early in those periods.
Costs that are not in the daily rate
Ask for these to be spelled out in the quote, so that two quotes can be compared like for like.
| Item | How it works at H.B.S. |
|---|---|
| Security deposit | Refundable, taken at handover and returned after the return inspection (see your agreement for the amount) |
| Extra kilometres | The standard rate includes 100 km per day; kilometres beyond the allowance are billed at the excess rate |
| Fuel | Full-to-full or same-level: return the car with the fuel level you received |
| Expressway tolls and parking | Paid by the hirer |
| Traffic fines | Paid by the hirer |
| Insurance excess | A standard excess applies and is stated in the agreement |
| Driver (if hired) | Quoted per package; ask whether fuel, tolls and the driver's meals and accommodation are included |
| Extras | Child seats, an extra driver and similar add-ons are arranged on request |
| Damage to tyres, rims, keys or interior | Charged at replacement cost if caused by misuse |
How deposits and payments work
Rental charges are settled before or at vehicle handover, as set out in your agreement. A refundable security deposit is also required. The deposit is not a fee: it is returned once the car has been inspected on return and no charges are due. Ask in advance how the deposit can be paid (card or cash) and how long a refund takes, especially if you fly out soon after returning the car.
Insurance in plain language
H.B.S. vehicles carry commercial rent-a-car insurance, which is what a rental needs; private car insurance does not cover paid hire. The standard excess is the amount you bear in the event of a claim. The insurance does not apply if the driver is unlicensed, intoxicated or grossly negligent, if someone who is not named in the agreement drives, or if the car is used for a prohibited purpose such as racing, off-road rallying or towing. Read our terms and conditions for the full list.
Pickup checklist
Allow fifteen minutes for the handover and use this list.
- Check the rental agreement for dates, return time, drivers named, deposit and excess.
- Walk around the car with the agent and note every scratch and dent on the form. Take dated photos or a video.
- Check all four tyres and the spare, and find the jack and wheel spanner.
- Test the air conditioning, headlights, indicators, brakes and horn.
- Note the fuel level and the odometer reading on the form.
- Save the 24/7 support number and ask what to do in case of an accident.
Return checklist
Allow extra time if you are returning the car before a flight.
- Refuel to the level shown on the agreement before you return.
- Remove your belongings and any rubbish.
- Walk around the car with the agent again and compare with the pickup notes.
- Ask for the return inspection to be signed and for the deposit refund arrangement to be confirmed.
Ways to keep the cost down
Hire for a full week or longer if you can, because the rate per day is lower. Choose a hybrid sedan for long distances, since it uses less fuel than a larger vehicle. Stay within the daily distance allowance or ask whether an unlimited-kilometre add-on is offered on your vehicle. Agree the return time in advance and ask what applies if you are late. For stays of a month or more, look at monthly car rental.
Frequently asked questions
Is the security deposit refundable?
Are kilometres limited?
Who pays for fuel and tolls?
What is covered by the insurance?
Related pages
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