Results from the March NSW Fair Trading Complaints Register have revealed that consumers have been driving up complaints against a vehicle rentals company.
Atlas Car and Truck Rentals, which operates from various business locations across Australia, has featured on the Complaints Register for the first time.
NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rose Webb said the majority of the complaints lodged against the company in March were about delays or difficulties obtaining refunds of deposits or security bonds after vehicles were returned.
“Consumers made complaints against Atlas Car and Truck Rentals in Mascot, Tweed Heads as well as Brisbane, Cairns North, Coolangatta, Northgate and Tullamarine,” Ms Webb said.
“However, it was the Mascot business that received most of the complaints with a total of 25.”
Ms Webb said people should be aware of the terms and conditions for rental vehicles before jumping into the driver’s seat.
“When considering hiring a vehicle, firstly check and clarify with the business any terms and conditions, including the timeframe for getting back the deposit or security bond,” Ms Webb said.
“Make sure to also do all the relevant checks on the vehicle, including the tyres, to see if there is any damage. All the lights, indicators, windscreen wipers and washers should be functioning before driving away.”
Consumers experiencing difficulties with a trader should try to resolve the matter directly in the first instance. People who have paid by credit and debit card should contact the administrator directly or their credit provider to discuss applying for a credit card chargeback. If unable to resolve a dispute, consumers should lodge a formal complaint on the Fair Trading website or call 13 32 20.
