Allegations of Ceiling Price Violations and Unregistered Collection in Valet Fees in Istanbul
Allegations that valet fees in restaurants and entertainment venues across Istanbul exceed ceiling prices and that collections are made without receipts via IBAN or cash instead of credit cards are drawing backlash.
Allegations have emerged that some businesses providing valet services in restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues in Istanbul are exceeding the designated ceiling prices and collecting payments without receipts via cash or IBAN instead of credit cards. Experts are calling for increased inspections.
Ceiling Price Debate on Valet Fees
While valet fees in hotels, restaurants, and entertainment centers in Istanbul are supposed to range between 310 and 500 TL depending on the region, it is claimed that this amount reaches up to 1,000 TL in some businesses. It is important for consumers to check the official tariffs.
In services carried out within the framework of the IMM Valet Directive, it is mandatory to announce the fee tariff in a way that customers can easily see it.
Cash and IBAN Request Instead of Credit Card
A significant portion of the complaints consists of payment methods. While credit cards are not accepted at many valet points, customers are asked to make cash payments or money transfers to personal and corporate IBANs.
The failure to provide a receipt or invoice after payment brings along the risk of unregistered collection and tax loss. Experts draw attention to the importance of obtaining documents.
Customers Cannot Be Forced into Valet Service
According to Article 4 of the IMM Valet Directive, customers cannot be forced to receive valet service in any way. Businesses with parking lots directing customers directly to valets create controversy.
The presence of signs indicating that the service is not mandatory at the valet point and the clear display of the price tariff stand out as a legal necessity.
Drivers' Concerns Regarding Vehicle Damage
Apprehensions experienced by drivers also draw attention in consumer complaints. Some citizens cannot object to high fees because they fear their vehicles might be damaged.
This concern is among the factors that make it difficult to carry complaints to official authorities.
Call for Inspections and Applications from Experts
Consumer Confederation Deputy Chairman Lawyer İbrahim Güllü stated that they have received numerous complaints on the subject and emphasized that inspections need to be increased.
It is recommended that consumers apply to relevant municipalities and regulatory authorities if they encounter ceiling price overruns or mandatory valet practices.