Board rental repair scams in Arugam Bay

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J
Jack W.7620 rep2

We rented boards on the beach. When we returned them, the guy pointed to a tiny scratch on the rail and demanded 50 dollars for "fiberglass repair". Is this normal.

2

4 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

This is a frustrating scam. While you must pay for actual dings you cause (like cracking the fiberglass and letting water in), minor paint scratches or pre-existing pressure dents do not warrant a 50 USD repair fee. Always take high-resolution photos of the entire board, especially the nose, tail, and rails, right in front of the shop owner BEFORE you rent it.

49
R
Ruwan P.7590 rep1

Also, do not leave your passport as a deposit! They will hold it hostage until you pay the fake repair fee.

30
S
Sophie T.4830 rep2

I refused to pay, and he eventually dropped the demand to 1000 rupees. Total scam.

20
J
Jack W.7620 rep2

If you genuinely dinged it, go to a local ding repair guy (like Dylan) yourself. They fix it for 2000 rupees, and you return the board repaired.

2
N
Nimali D.4200 rep1

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