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CABI
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Damage, soiling & penalties

The charges nobody wants to read about

Version 2026-08-01 · cabi.ie/policies/damage

Draft — not yet legally reviewed. Written to be consistent with published NTA rules, but not signed off by a solicitor.

These exist because a vehicle taken off the road cleaning is a driver not earning. They are set to cover real cost, not to punish.

What happenedChargeBasis
Soiling — vomit, spillage or anything requiring the vehicle to be professionally cleanedUp to €140The NTA sets €140 as the maximum soiling charge. We charge the actual cost of cleaning and the lost driving time, up to that ceiling, with the invoice attached.
Damage to the interior or exterior beyond fair wearAt costRepair invoice plus documented off-road time. Photographs at the time and the invoice are provided before anything is charged.
Smoking or vaping in the vehicle€100Illegal in an SPSV under the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts. The journey ends immediately and the full fare stands.
Abuse or threats towards a driverFull fare, no refundThe journey ends at a safe location. Serious incidents are reported to An Garda Síochána and the account is closed permanently.

How a charge is raised

Lost property

Anything left in a CABI is logged and held for 30 days. We will return it by courier at cost, or hold it for collection at no charge. We do not charge a "handling fee" for giving you back your own phone.