Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some questions that are frequently asked about hiring a classic car from HCHG.
Which HCHG member should I choose?
Which HCHG member you choose is dependant on whether you wish to hire close to home or take a special break away. Your choice of member may also be decided by who has that special car you have always wanted to drive.
What does HCHG membership represent for the businesses?
The HCHG is an assoication of the leading classic car hire operating companies, who are united in their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of quality service within the UK classic car hire industry. All members work according to the HCHG Quality Charter. This charter outlines the high standard of service that all the small businesses follow. All HCHG companies have been assessed on the quality of their service and fleet of classic cars before being allowed to become members.
How does the insurance work?
Members hire rates include fully comprehensive cover for one driver. Additional drivers can be added for a small surcharge.
Drivers have to meet the criteria of our insurance company.
What driver criteria are used to arrange insurance?
Generally, drivers should be aged 25 to 75 years, be in good health, have not had more than one accident in the last 3 years and have no more than six points on their drivers licence. They should normally have held a full British drivers licence for at least 5 years. However, members do welcome and cater for overseas hirers - please contact the member you are interested in hiring from.
Security bond/hire cautionary deposit
A refundable security bond/hire cautionary deposit, which is payable in the form of a credit/debit card pre-authorisation, is common to all classic and general car hire companies. If the hirer cannot refuel the car, receives any speeding fines or causes minor damage to the car, the cost will be taken from the security deposit. This includes mechanical damage brought about by abuse or misuse but does not include stone chips and other examples or unavoidable wear and tear.
In effect, the security bond/cautionary hire deposit is each customer's stake in the safe keeping of our members' valuable cars.
Will I have an opportunity to familarise myself with the car?
Yes, all our members will make sure that you are completely comfortable with the car before you leave. This generally involves a short 'induction talk' in the cock-pit where all the controls are discussed and the general type of drive the car offers. If clients would prefer a short 'driving lesson' members are happy to oblige.
Before going out on hire all the cars receive a thorough pre-hire safety check, all fluid levels are checked and they are hand washed and polished.
What if I'm worried about something during the hire period?
When you pick up the car, all members provide you with the telephone numbers where they can be contacted. You are therefore never on your own with a car without advice/support available.
All HCHG classic cars are meticulously maintained but in the rare event of a breakdown, all the cars are covered by a national breakdown service.