These terms and conditions govern every self-drive vehicle hire arranged through Lakpura. By signing the rental agreement, the hirer accepts all clauses below in full. Please read them carefully before taking possession of the vehicle.
How is the rental agreement formed?
A binding agreement is formed between Lakpura (the service provider) and the individual or organisation named as the client on the hire information sheet (the hirer). The agreement takes effect on the release date stated on that sheet. The hirer's NICI Business Registration Number and the nominated driver's driving licence number form part of the agreement record.
Hire charges and billing terms are fixed by the original written quotation. Any subsequent changes to rates or conditions require written confirmation from Lakpura before they take effect.
What are the mileage and fuel calculation rules?
Mileage is calculated on a garage-to-garage basis from Lakpura's Colombo 06 depot — approximately 40 km from Bandaranaike International Airport — regardless of where the hire begins or ends. Cumulative mileage allowances apply across the full hire period (for example, 560 km over seven days).
The number of hire days is counted on a calendar-day basis, not in 24-hour cycles. Fuel is provided at a standard level at the start of the hire; any difference at the end of the hire period is credited or debited to the client based on prevailing standard fuel prices.
What security deposit is required?
The hirer must pay a refundable security deposit in the amount specified in the charges section of the hire agreement. This deposit is held against potential damage, loss, or unpaid charges during the hire period. Even if the deposit requirement is formally waived in writing, the same deposit value remains the hirer's maximum liability cap for damages and losses that occur while the vehicle is in the hirer's custody.
How does the extension process work?
If the hirer wishes to extend the hire period, a new agreement must be signed before the original period expires. Extension requests must be submitted by mail, fax, or email, and the hirer must retain an acknowledgement of that request. Payment of extended hire charges at the pro-rata rate of the existing contract is due before the original period concludes, whether or not Lakpura issues a formal demand.
If payment for an extension is not received on time, Lakpura reserves the right to repossess the vehicle. All recovery costs, plus a late-payment penalty of 5% per month calculated on the outstanding invoice value, will be charged to the hirer.
What happens if the contract is terminated early?
Early termination charges apply as follows:
- Hires of up to 29 days: The full standard weekly rate — without any promotional discount and inclusive of applicable seasonal surcharges — applies for the period already elapsed at the point of termination.
- Hires of 30 days or more: An early termination charge equal to 25% of the total rental value of the remaining (unused) contract period applies in addition to charges for the period already elapsed.
What are the hirer's vehicle maintenance obligations?
The hirer is responsible for carrying out routine checks throughout the hire period. These checks include coolant and water levels, engine oil, battery water, and tyre pressure. Damage caused by the hirer's failure to maintain adequate fluid levels or tyre condition — including a broken fan belt, engine damage from low oil, or tyre damage attributable to improper pressure — is the hirer's sole responsibility and is not covered by the standard deposit contribution.
What is the hirer's liability for damage and loss?
The hirer's financial liability for damage or loss occurring while the vehicle is in their custody is ordinarily capped at the standard refundable deposit value, even when that deposit has been waived. This liability contribution includes:
- An accident-handling charge of Rs. 10,000
- Idle-time charges while the vehicle is under repair, calculated at the applicable daily rental rate
- Towing charges where applicable
The cap does not apply in certain circumstances. The hirer bears full liability for total loss or damage — up to the vehicle's market value — if any of the following apply:
- The hirer fails to complete the required insurance-claim or police-reporting process following an incident
- The insurer declines the claim because the driver was under the influence of alcohol, medication, or drugs, or because the damage resulted from gross negligence
- Loss or damage involves the vehicle's number plates, windscreen, registration sticker, or revenue licence documentation
Who is the guarantor and what is their responsibility?
Where a second signatory or guarantor is named on the hire agreement, that individual is jointly responsible for ensuring the safe return of the vehicle in its original condition and for the settlement of all outstanding payments at the conclusion of the hire.
General conditions
- The nominated driver must hold a valid driving licence for the vehicle category rented. Sri Lanka requires an international driving permit (IDP) in conjunction with a domestic licence for foreign nationals.
- The vehicle must not be driven outside Sri Lanka.
- Sub-letting or transferring the vehicle to a third-party driver not named in the agreement is prohibited.
- Lakpura's chauffeur-driven car and van options are available for travellers who prefer a professional driver, with no maintenance obligations for the client.
What should I do in the event of an accident or breakdown?
In the event of an accident, the hirer must immediately notify the nearest police station and Lakpura, and must not move the vehicle until a police officer has inspected the scene. A police report reference number is required to initiate any insurance claim. In the event of a mechanical breakdown, the hirer should contact Lakpura's emergency line; do not attempt repairs through an unauthorised workshop without prior written approval, as this may void the relevant warranty or insurance coverage.
