How to Spot If You’re Using a Dishonest Valet Parking Company

How to Spot If You’re Using a Dishonest Valet Parking Company

Your valet parking provider plays a bigger role in your business than most owners or managers realize. They control the first and last moments of the guest experience, handle high-value property, and represent your brand on the curb. While many valet companies operate with integrity and professionalism, some cut corners, hide problems, or even engage in dishonest behavior that can put your guests—and your reputation—at serious risk.

As a venue operator, it’s critical to know the warning signs. Below are the clearest indicators that you may be working with a dishonest or unreliable valet parking company.

1. They Can’t Provide Proof of Insurance or Avoid Questions About Coverage

A legitimate valet company should immediately be able to produce:

  • Valid insurance certificates
  • Up-to-date coverage limits
  • Policy details upon request
  • Proof of workers’ compensation

If they hesitate, stall, or give excuses like “we’re waiting for it to renew,” that’s a major red flag. Dishonest providers often operate with expired or nonexistent insurance—leaving you liable for damages or injuries.

2. Missing, Incomplete, or Suspicious Incident Reports

Every valet company should document:

  • Vehicle damage
  • Accidents on property
  • Lost keys or tickets
  • Guest complaints

If incidents seem to “disappear,” if attendants tell guests to “don’t worry about it,” or if management refuses to share reports with you, it may be a sign they are hiding patterns of negligence or poor training.

3. They Collect Cash Without Permission—or Pocket It

One of the most common dishonest valet practices is unauthorized cash collection. Dishonest providers may:

  • Charge guests for valet when the venue offers it for free
  • Solicit tips aggressively or rudely
  • Keep cash fees that were supposed to go to the venue
  • Set up their own “pricing” on nights you aren’t monitoring

If guests ever say they were charged unexpectedly, or if cash doesn’t match expectations, your valet company may be running side hustles behind your back.

4. High Staff Turnover With No Explanation

A dishonest company usually struggles to keep employees because:

  • They pay under the table
  • They rely on inexperienced or untrained drivers
  • They reuse uniforms among dozens of rotating workers
  • The environment is chaotic or unsafe

When you see new faces every weekend, or no consistent leadership on-site, it may indicate deeper issues such as wage theft, unsafe working conditions, or complete lack of structure.

5. Vehicles Are Driven Recklessly or Parked Illegally

Dishonest valet operators often cut corners by:

  • Speeding or joyriding guest cars
  • Parking illegally in fire lanes or private lots
  • Using commercial or business lots without permission
  • Blocking driveways or creating hazards

If guests report driving concerns, or if cars return with extra miles or damage, your valet provider is behaving unethically—and potentially illegally.

6. They Resist Oversight or Don’t Want Management Watching

Dishonest valet companies thrive when venue managers stay away. They may:

  • Become defensive when questioned
  • Avoid giving you on-site point-of-contact names
  • Hide staffing lists or scheduling info
  • Discourage you from reviewing their operations

A reputable company welcomes oversight. A dishonest one avoids it at all costs.

7. Guests Complain About Missing Items or Suspicious Behavior

While rare with professional operators, dishonest valet companies create the environment where theft is possible. Warning signs include:

  • Guests reporting missing sunglasses, cash, electronics, or gift bags
  • Attendants leaning into cars unnecessarily
  • Unlocked vehicles returned to guests
  • Excuses when confronted about missing property

Even a single incident is a serious liability—and a huge indicator of an untrustworthy provider.

Choose a Valet Partner That Operates With Integrity

A dishonest valet company can damage your reputation, frustrate guests, and expose your business to legal risk. If you recognize any of the red flags above, it may be time to switch to a provider that values transparency, safety, and true hospitality.

MB&L Parking Solutions delivers honest, reliable, professional valet service for restaurants, catering halls, country clubs, private events, and more throughout the region.

Contact MB&L Parking Solutions:
Phone: (201) 414-1255
Email: info@mblparking.com
Click here to contact us online

Logan Moskovitz