What Is Car Hire Excess Insurance?
By Anna Jones at Eversure,
24th June 2025, 5 min read
You might be familiar with the term 'excess', but exactly is it?
Many car renters are surprised to learn that even though the cost of the hire includes basic insurance, they could still be liable for a large bill if the vehicle is damaged or stolen.
What is Car Hire Excess?
The term 'excess' refers to the amount you must pay towards a claim if your hire car is damaged or stolen. The amount this could be is set by the car hire company and could cost you hundreds or thousands. Some companies will go as far as to say that the excess is the total value of the car.
In the UK and across Europe, most car hire agreements include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), theft protection and third-party liability. Despite these being included in the agreement, they do not eliminate your financial risk. If something happens and your car is stolen or damaged, you could still be responsible for paying a hefty excess fee.
This is where a car hire excess insurance policy from Eversure comes in.
Why You Need Car Hire Excess Insurance
Without car hire excess insurance, you're at risk of that full amount being charged to your credit card, leaving you out of pocket.
With a car hire excess insurance policy from Eversure, you're protected.
In the event that your hire car is damaged or stolen, you will pay the excess to the rental company at that time. However, when you get home, you will submit a claim to us with all the necessary documentation. Once your claim is approved, we will reimburse you for the full excess you paid.
Don't feel pressured into purchasing the typically more expensive and reduced coverage excess waiver from the rental desk. Our policies are valid worldwide, and you don't need to let the rental company know you have a policy with us at any time.
Why Choose Car Hire Excess Insurance From Eversure?
We understand the amount of coverage people hiring cars actually need which is why Eversure's car hire excess insurance offers comprehensive protection at a fraction of the price.
With Eversure, you are covered for:
- Excess up to £7000
- Damage to tyres, windscreens and undercarriage
- Any autoglass damage
- Lost or stolen keys
- Misfuelling
Trusted by thousands, our affordable daily and annual car hire excess insurance options mean unexpected costs never have the chance to ruin your holiday.