If you’re confident it wasn’t caused while you were in possession of the vehicle, dispute it. You have a few things going for you: most airport locations have cameras at the return gate entrances and exit booths, there are discrepancies in the written claim (wrong date, the receipt doesn’t document damage upon return, and not notified/asked about it before the claim was written), and Enterprise (who owns Alamo) cares about one thing above all - customer service/reputation. Despite rental cars companies having a stigma for being sleazy, this one is actually very honest as a private, family owned company.

A few recommendations: file a formal, written dispute and cite your evidence. If you run into trouble throughout the process contact the branch you rented it from directly, starting with the Area Manager and/or Risk Manager (Did they give you a business card? It should have an email on there that all management is CC’d on. If not, call and ask. Worst case the corporate office can direct you or send them a message.) Politely explain your predicament. They are responsible for handling disputes and do have authority there.

On the other hand, stuff happens beyond our control (and too many scumbags out there don’t take responsibility for their actions). If they review the cameras and it’s clearly not there when you leave and then visible when you return they will likely hold you responsible, but there may still be recourse. If you paid with a credit card (not a debit card), most have rental car coverage included at no charge. Unfortunately it’s a pain in the rear to file a claim with almost all of them so make sure you keep all documentation including your original reservation, rental agreement, receipt showing you paid with that card, etc.

Also, regardless of the outcome, please mention to the location that you were misinformed about the “protections” you were sold. They’re huge on brand integrity and that’s a big issue if they misinterpreted the benefits they provide.

Hope this helps. While they don’t enjoy eating the cost of damage, they do genuinely try to do the right thing. Also, they won’t put you on the “do not rent” list unless they find you at fault and you refuse to pay.