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Drive mate Guest Flex+ Rental Policy

This policy outlines the terms and conditions for guests renting vehicles through Drive mate’s Flex+ subscription program in Australia

Sebastian avatar
Written by Sebastian
Updated over 2 weeks ago

1. Overview

This policy outlines the terms and conditions for guests renting vehicles through Drive mate’s Flex+ subscription program in Australia. By joining Flex+, you agree to follow all Drive mate policies and the terms outlined below.


2. Rental Details

  • Minimum Term: 8 weeks from the start date.

  • Billing: Weekly payments charged automatically.

  • Refundable Deposit: $500, refunded after the vehicle is returned in acceptable condition as per contract.

  • Included Mileage: 500 km per week (2,000 km per month).

  • Excess: $3,000 ($500 additional for drivers under 25 or with less than 2 years’ driving experience).

  • Payment Frequency: Weekly.

  • Vehicle Ownership: Vehicle remains the property of the host at all times.

  • Pickup & Return: At the designated location agreed upon at the start of the rental.


3. Fees

  • The weekly subscription price includes the base rental, insurance package, and any mileage package selected.

  • Processing fees apply and are added to the total subscription price.

  • All payments must be made on time to avoid late fees or repossession.

  • Payments are processed through the Drive mate platform.


4. Guest Responsibilities

As a guest, you must:

  • Hold a valid driver’s licence recognised in Australia.

  • Use the vehicle responsibly and only for personal, non-commercial use.

  • Keep the vehicle clean and return it in the same condition it was received.

  • Not allow anyone else to drive the vehicle unless they are an authorised driver verified by Drive mate.

  • Comply with all road rules and laws.

  • Pay all tolls, fines, and penalties incurred during your rental.

  • Keep the vehicle locked and secure when unattended.

  • Use only the correct fuel type.

You must not:

  • Drive off-road, through floodwaters, or in restricted areas.

  • Drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Smoke or allow pets (unless assistance animals) inside the vehicle.

  • Use the vehicle for ridesharing, courier, or delivery services.

  • Modify or tamper with the vehicle in any way.


5. Policies

Vehicle Cleanliness

  • Cars must be returned clean and in similar condition as received.

  • Cleaning fees apply if the car is returned dirty:

    • Moderate cleaning: up to $60

    • Heavy cleaning (pet hair, smoke, stains): $180

Pick-up & Drop-off

  • A vehicle condition report must be completed and signed on the Drive mate platform at both pick-up and drop-off.

  • Guests opting for delivery or return services must follow Drive mate’s delivery policy.

  • Vehicles must be returned to the agreed location; repossession fees apply if not.

Subscription Cancellation

  • Auto-renewal: Subscriptions renew every 7 days until cancelled.

  • Cancellation notice: 14 days’ written notice after the minimum rental duration.

  • Early termination: Cancelling before 8 weeks forfeits your deposit.

  • Early returns: No refunds within the 14-day notice period.

Fuel Policy

  • Return the vehicle with the same fuel level as at pick-up.

Wear & Tear

  • Guests aren’t responsible for normal wear and tear or mechanical failure.

  • Guests are responsible for damage caused by misuse, negligence, or poor driving (e.g. clutch damage, suspension damage, underbody or overhead damage).

Mileage

  • 500 km/week included.

  • Excess km charged at $0.25/km.

  • Optional mileage extensions:

    • +200 km for $40/week

    • +400 km for $75/week

    • Unlimited km for $99/week

Late Returns

  • Grace period applies, but after that:

    • Late return charge: Calculated at daily rate.

    • Inconvenience fee: $30 (no booking impacted) / $75 (next booking impacted).

    • Drive mate may repossess the vehicle if it’s unclear when it will be returned.

Late Payment Fee

  • $25 per week for overdue balances.

  • Repossession and additional charges may apply for continued non-payment.

Roadside Assistance

Guests are responsible for roadside costs when the issue results from user error, including:

  • Lost or locked-in keys.

  • Flat batteries from lights/accessories left on.

  • Punctured or shredded tyres.

  • Situations caused by negligence.


6. Maintenance

Scheduled Maintenance:

  • Guest delivers the vehicle to the designated workshop and collects it post-maintenance.

Unscheduled Maintenance (Guest’s Fault):

  • Guest covers all costs, including towing.

  • Payments continue during downtime. Replacement cars may be offered at 50% of the standard rate.

Unscheduled Maintenance (Not Guest’s Fault):

  • Complimentary towing or roadside assistance.

  • If downtime exceeds 24 hours, a pro-rated refund or replacement vehicle may be provided (subject to availability).


7. Vehicle Swap

  • Swaps are only allowed after completing the minimum rental term.

  • Two weeks’ notice required.

  • A new contract will be signed for the replacement vehicle.

  • Pickup and delivery costs apply for both cars.


8. Damage Cover

  • Standard damage cover is included.

  • Guest is liable up to the Damage Excess unless proven not at fault.

  • Excess may be charged after verification of costs or insurance investigation.

Damage Cover Exclusions

No cover applies for:

  • Accidents caused by serious breaches (e.g. unlicensed driving, intoxication).

  • Damage to tyres (beyond normal wear), underbody, or overhead sections.

  • Water immersion or incorrect fuel use.

  • Personal items or accessories (keys, GPS, etc.).


9. Policy Updates

Drive mate may update policies from time to time. Guests are responsible for reviewing the current version before and during their subscription.

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