Unjust Hail Damage Charge by Hertz – Despite Clear Evidence

In December 2024, I rented a vehicle from Hertz Car Rental – Pretoria branch for a weekend trip to Rustenburg (Tlhabane, Sun City, and Moruleng). Upon returning the vehicle, I was informed of alleged hail damage, and shortly thereafter charged damage charges, which I strongly dispute. Here’s why I believe this charge is unjust and unreasonable: • The areas I visited experienced no hail during the period in question (13–17 December 2024), as confirmed by official weather reports. • Hertz provided pre-rental vehicle photos and videos, which showed no damage. • I requested post-return images for comparison, but my request has been completely ignored. • I escalated the matter to the branch manager and Hertz's customer service team where the dispute was declined. • The matter is reported to SAVRALA— and an acknowledgment received, however the manager is currently out of office. • I was ultimately forced to pay the damage charges under pressure. despite providing compelling evidence that no hail damage occurred while the car was in my care. This experience has caused me emotional and financial distress, and it feels like a clear breach of consumer trust. I intend on escalating this to the Motor Industry Ombudsman (MIOSA) and Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO). I am sharing this publicly to warn other consumers and to request that Hertz refund the hail damage charges and formally acknowledge this issue.