Hertz UK's optional car insurance is underwritten by Axa Insurance UK Limited

When you rent a car from Hertz in the UK and choose their optional damage waiver or insurance product, Axa Insurance UK Limited is the company that actually underwrites the policy. This means Axa is the insurer on the back end — they set the terms, handle claims, and bear the financial risk if something goes wrong during your rental.

Hertz acts as the intermediary between you and Axa. You pay Hertz for the coverage, Hertz collects the premium, and Axa provides the actual insurance protection. Understanding this distinction matters because if you need to make a claim or have questions about what is and is not covered, you may need to contact Axa directly rather than just Hertz customer service.

Key Takeaways

  • Axa Insurance UK Limited is the underwriter of Hertz UK's optional car insurance products, meaning they are the actual insurer behind the coverage.
  • Hertz collects the premium from you but does not bear the insurance risk themselves — that responsibility belongs to Axa.
  • Your rental agreement with Hertz will reference Axa as the insurer and should include details about what Axa's policy covers and excludes.
  • If you have a claim or dispute about coverage, you may need to contact Axa directly, though Hertz can often help you start the process.

What Axa's coverage typically includes

Axa's optional insurance through Hertz UK usually covers damage to the rental vehicle, theft, and third-party liability — the legal responsibility you have if you damage someone else's property or injure them. The exact scope depends on which optional product you select at the rental counter, as Hertz often offers different tiers of coverage.

Most optional products come with an excess (the amount you pay toward any claim). This excess can range from several hundred pounds down to zero, depending on which option you choose and whether you pay extra to reduce it. Your rental agreement will spell out the excess amount for your specific booking.

It is important to read the terms Hertz provides at the time of rental, because coverage limits, exclusions, and conditions are set by Axa and may vary by rental location or vehicle type. Some exclusions commonly apply to damage from off-road driving, racing, or using the vehicle for commercial purposes.

How to find your policy details

Your rental agreement is the primary document that shows you have Axa coverage and what it includes. Hertz should provide this to you at pickup, either in paper form or digitally. The agreement will name Axa as the insurer and include a policy number or reference.

If you need to review the full terms and conditions of Axa's policy, ask Hertz for the insurance product information document (often called a key facts sheet). This document outlines what is covered, what is not, the excess, and how to make a claim. You can also contact Axa directly using the contact details on your rental agreement.

Making a claim with Axa

If you damage the rental car or it is stolen, you will need to report the incident to Hertz first. Hertz will then guide you through the claims process and may submit the claim to Axa on your behalf. However, you should keep copies of all documentation — the rental agreement, photos of damage, police reports (if applicable), and any correspondence with Hertz.

Axa will assess the claim based on the terms of the policy underwritten for that rental. The insurer will determine whether the damage is covered, calculate the cost of repair, and deduct the excess from any payout. This process typically takes several weeks.

If Axa denies your claim or you disagree with their assessment, you have the right to escalate the complaint. Both Hertz and Axa should provide information about their complaints procedures in writing.

Difference between Axa's optional coverage and your personal car insurance

Axa's optional coverage through Hertz is separate from any car insurance you hold on your own vehicle. Your personal policy does not automatically cover rental cars, and Hertz's optional insurance does not extend to your personal vehicle.

Some personal car insurance policies do offer rental car coverage as an optional add-on, which means you might be covered under your own insurer instead of (or in addition to) Axa's product. Before you buy Hertz's optional insurance, check your personal policy documents or contact your own insurer to see whether rental cars are already covered. If they are, you may not need Hertz's optional product, though you should confirm the excess and limits match what you need.

What happens if you decline Axa's optional insurance

You are not required to buy Hertz's optional insurance. If you decline it, you remain responsible for any damage to the rental car. Hertz will charge you for repairs, and you may be liable for third-party claims if you cause injury or damage to others.

If you decline and later have an accident, your own car insurance may cover the rental vehicle — but again, this depends on your personal policy. Some policies exclude rentals entirely. Before you decline Hertz's optional coverage, make sure you understand what your own insurance does and does not cover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I contact Axa directly about my Hertz rental insurance?

Yes, you can contact Axa using the details provided in your rental agreement or on Hertz's website. However, Hertz is often the faster first point of contact because they hold your rental file and can explain the specific coverage you purchased. Axa handles claims and policy questions once a claim is filed.

Is Axa's optional insurance the same price every time I rent from Hertz UK?

No. The cost of Axa's optional coverage varies based on the rental period, vehicle type, and your age. Hertz will quote you the price at the time of booking or at the rental counter. Longer rentals and higher-value vehicles typically cost more to insure.

What if I have an accident but do not report it to Hertz immediately?

Delayed reporting can complicate your claim. Axa's policy requires you to report damage promptly so Hertz can document the condition of the vehicle and investigate the incident. If you wait too long, Axa may question whether the damage occurred during your rental or before, which could lead to claim denial.

Does Axa cover damage if I was driving recklessly or broke the law?

No. Axa's policy excludes claims arising from illegal driving, racing, or gross negligence. If an accident investigation shows you were speeding, driving under the influence, or driving without a valid licence, Axa will likely deny the claim. Your rental agreement outlines these exclusions.