Car hire drivers stung on fees

Published on Saturday 10 May 2008 14:25

CAR hire customers are being hoodwinked into signing up for cheap car hire in Europe, only to be stung on expensive charges for excess waiver policies and other extras, according to Insurance4carhire.com.

In Europe, excesses can be as high as 1,500 and leave holidaymakers badly out of pocket if they are not covered and have a bump. Even with protection, you may still be liable for damage to windows, tyres, roof and undercarriage.

Alamo and National Car Rental have the most expensive excess waiver costs despite not covering damage to window, tyres and undercarriage in their excess policy, according to Insurance4carhire.com.

Saver rate rises

HALIFAX has increased the rate for its Web Saver Extra account to 6.35% on deposits of 1 to 100,000. One withdrawal per year is allowed without loss of interest.

The Post Office has created a range of Growth Bonds offering one, three and five-year fixed terms. The one-year bond pays 6.25% on a minimum investment of 500, while customers looking to fix for three or five years will receive a return of 6%.

Rural dreams

GROWING numbers of Scottish homeowners are thinking about upping sticks to the country, according to a survey from Clydesdale Bank.

Two-thirds of homeowners believe that moving away from the city would be better for their health. More than half of twentysomethings do not feel city living is vital to career progression, and 59% admitted they would like to own both a city crash pad and a country retreat to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Equitable AGM

EQUITABLE Life's annual meeting will be held on May 19 at 11am at Church House Conference Centre, Dean's Yard, Westminster, London.

Voting forms must be returned by next weekend.