Deposit policy.

1. Why deposits are used

Deposits help secure a vehicle, protect against late cancellation, support preparation and delivery planning, and provide operational protection for high-value rentals.

2. Secure payment handling

Deposits are paid through Stripe-hosted checkout. Velaire stores payment status and booking references, but does not store raw card details on the website.

3. When a deposit may be used

• Late cancellation, no-show or failed eligibility checks after preparation.
• Damage, insurance excess, cleaning, smoking or interior restoration charges.
• Late return, excess mileage, additional delivery, fuel or charging shortfall.
• Parking, tolls, congestion, clean air zone charges, penalties or lost keys.

4. Refund review

After return, Velaire may review vehicle condition, mileage, fines, delivery records and any open operational items before confirming the refund or release of any remaining deposit. Banking and provider processing times can vary.

5. Deposit return timing

Deposit release is reviewed after the vehicle is returned, inspected and checked against mileage, handover condition, charging or fuel level, fines and open operational items. Where no deductions or open issues apply, Velaire will start the release promptly; bank, card and payment-provider processing times may take several working days after release.

6. Booking-specific amounts

Deposit amounts may vary by vehicle, hire length, customer profile, delivery location, insurance criteria and seasonal demand. The amount due now is shown before Stripe checkout.