Nearly every rental dispute grows from a clause that was not discussed before work started. Clarify these seven points before signing.
1. Whose fuel?
The industry standard is that fuel belongs to the renter; but whether it is "full-to-full" or meter-based must be written down.
2. Operator and liability
In operated rental, the operator's social security, overtime and liability for faulty use belong to the machine owner — state it explicitly.
3. Replacement time on breakdown
"The company will respond to breakdowns" is not enough. Response within how many hours, replacement within how many hours — put numbers.
4. Transport and lowbed cost
Who pays inbound/outbound transport, and what do on-site relocations cost? Decide upfront.
5. Definition of a working hour
How many hours does the daily rate cover (usually 8), what is the overtime rate, does a rainy day count?
6. Insurance and damage
Who holds the machine insurance and what is the deductible? Which policy covers third-party damage?
7. Handover report
A photographed report of hours, fuel level and existing damage — both at delivery and at return.
In our contracts these seven clauses are written by default; you will not need to ask.
