Deposit Not Refunded As Promised

<p>I referred very good overseas friends of mine to Helderberg Camper Hire or Vista Motor Homes in Somerset West when they were looking for a Camper to hire for their 2 and a half month well deserved holiday in SA knowing that they had a very good reputation, however, I didn't realise that ownership had changed about 2 years ago. I offerred to return the camper for my friends at the end of their holiday and sort out the refund of deposit and that is when I met Ronel, the new owner, who was initially very charming. After returning the camper I was told the deposit would be refunded within a few days and would receive the final invoice by the following Monday. Camper was Returned 31st Aug, Monday being the 2nd Sep. Since then it has been an absolute nightmare.... Calls to Ronel not being answered, messages just simply ignored, whatsapps and emails too. She finally answered yesterday to my surprise and stated that she was still awaiting final inspection from the workshop? Well, if that aint a further stalling tactic then I am at a loss. How long does an inspection take? Really? We were also informed that the original amount transferred was over R2000 short owing to exchange rate differences even though we were originally quoted an exact USD amount and transferred same amount as per her calculations. This shortfall was never mentioned until the end of the hire which I was told on day of return will be deducted from deposit. Also, although the initial inspection was done in my presence, it was also reported that there were "scrathches" found on the roof and that this was to be deducted also. My friends when they received the camper were never shown the roof or offerred an inspection thereof so what to think of that not sure either. I now doubt the credibility of this firm and wish to share our story with other prospective camper hire renters out there. This particular rental was worth over R100 000 to Helderberg Camper Hire and one would have thought the customer experience should have been higher than most from start to finish. The service was great to start with but finished on a low and STILL awaiting the R15000 deposit paid in good faith or at least a final account to be offset from this within a few days rather than a few weeks. Still awaiting an outcome. Will keep you posted on final outcome. I certainly will not recommend this company again for obvious reasons. What a huge dissappointment ! Campers beware... Am sure there are other reputable companies out there who will value your support.</p>