How Much Does Credit Hire Cost?
Credit hire usually costs you nothing upfront because it is arranged on credit, with the reasonable cost pursued from the at-fault insurer. That is not the same as free: the rate, duration, vehicle class and your need can all be challenged, so it is worth understanding the figures.
§ 01Why is credit hire not simply free?
A hire creates a charge whether or not you pay it on day one. In a straightforward non-fault case the reasonable cost is pursued from the at-fault insurer, but the word that does the work is reasonable. Recovery is not automatic.
This is why providers keep evidence of your need, the vehicle class and how long the hire ran. We do not quote daily rates on this site, because a reasonable rate depends heavily on vehicle type, location and circumstances.
What can the at-fault insurer challenge?
If any of these are challenged and reduced, questions about the balance can follow, depending on the terms you agreed. Reading the GTA and what happens if liability is disputed helps set expectations.
| What it means | |
|---|---|
| Upfront cost to you | Usually none — the hire is arranged on credit. |
| Who is pursued for payment | The at-fault driver's insurer, for the reasonable cost. |
| What can be challenged | The daily rate, the hire duration, the vehicle class and your need. |
| If recovery falls short | Questions can arise about the balance, depending on your agreement. |
| Your free alternative | Speak to your own or the at-fault insurer directly, at no cost. |
§ 03How can I keep the cost reasonable?
Keep the hire to the period you genuinely need the vehicle, ask for a class proportionate to your needs, and keep repair updates and correspondence. If your own vehicle becomes usable again, that usually affects how long a replacement is reasonable.
You can always contact your own insurer or the at-fault insurer directly, free of charge, before or during a hire.
Common questions
Will I ever have to pay anything?
In a clear non-fault case the reasonable cost is usually recovered from the at-fault insurer, but your agreement sets out what happens if recovery falls short. Read it carefully.
Do you publish daily hire rates?
No. A reasonable rate depends on the vehicle, location and circumstances, so a single figure would be misleading.
Does a longer hire cost more?
Yes, and a longer hire is more likely to be questioned. A hire should run only for the reasonable period your vehicle is unavailable.
Work out where you stand
This site is a reference library, not an enquiry desk — no telephone number, email address or form here is live yet. You can contact your own insurer or the at-fault insurer directly, free of charge, at any time.