How Credit Hire Works
Credit hire usually works by providing a temporary replacement vehicle under a credit agreement after a non-fault accident. The provider then seeks payment from the at-fault insurer. The process depends on liability, your need, repair times, evidence and the terms you sign.
The practical brief comes before the keys.
A provider may ask how many people travel, what must fit in the vehicle, whether an automatic is needed, how the car is used and how long your own vehicle is expected to be unavailable.
The result may be a comparable class rather than the same make and model. Any offered vehicle, delivery timing and hire duration remain subject to the provider's assessment, terms and availability.
Read the suitability factorsWhat are the main steps in credit hire?
The process usually starts with an accident where another driver is believed to be at fault and your vehicle is damaged, unsafe, unavailable or off the road for repair. A credit hire provider may ask for accident details, vehicle details, insurance information and confirmation that you need a replacement vehicle.
If a vehicle is arranged, you sign an agreement setting out the hire terms. The hire period should usually last only as long as reasonably necessary. After the hire ends, the provider seeks payment from the at-fault insurer.
Non-fault accident
Your vehicle is damaged, unsafe or off the road after an accident another driver caused.
Replacement arranged
A like-for-like replacement may be arranged on credit, so you keep moving.
Cost pursued
The provider seeks the reasonable hire cost from the at-fault driver's insurer.
Hire ends
The hire runs only for the reasonable time your own vehicle is unavailable.
§ 02What evidence can affect credit hire?
Evidence can include accident details, photographs, repair updates, engineer reports, proof of your need for transport, correspondence with insurers and any documents showing why a particular vehicle class was required.
You may be asked to cooperate if the at-fault insurer challenges liability, the hire duration, the vehicle type or the rate. You can raise concerns or complaints directly with your insurer, broker or provider free of charge. See also what happens if liability is disputed.
Common questions
Do I sign a contract for credit hire?
Usually, yes. You should read it carefully and ask questions before agreeing.
How long does credit hire last?
It should usually last only for the reasonable period your own vehicle is unavailable.
Can the other insurer dispute credit hire?
Yes. Disputes can arise over fault, need, rate, duration or whether the vehicle was reasonable.
Prepare for the partner eligibility route
Organise the accident, driver and vehicle information a participating provider would usually need. Enquiries are not open, and the checklist does not assess or guarantee anything.