It seems like everyone offers tools for rent these days. Hardware stores. Big box stores like Walmart and Sears. Small construction equipment rental businesses. You can even find tools for rent from private owners on Craigslist. When you are looking for tools for rent, you have a lot of options.
However, as with any product or service you have to choose from, not all businesses who offer tools for rent are exactly the same. The quality of the rental tools, the price, the safety, and the liability you hold vary widely from one equipment rentals business to the next. Since the success of the project you’re working on is directly dependent on being properly equipped to do your job, it is important to do your homework when selecting a tool rental provider. Here are a few factors you should consider:
- Reputation
Sometimes it’s impossible to know just by looking at the tools themselves if they’re in poor shape or if maintenance has been neglected on them. Then, when you get home and start working on your project, you realize that your tools don’t work like they’re supposed to. In some cases, you don’t realize it until the materials you’re working with have been damaged and your project is ruined.
One thing is true of equipment rental companies: If they provide poor quality tools, they’ll quickly develop a bad reputation. Maybe there won’t be a neon sign on the door that says, “Don’t rent our tools unless you want to royally screw up your project.” but if you do a little digging into satisfaction reviews online, you’ll quickly discover the reputation of the tool rental provider you’re considering. - Pricing Model
The most common reason you’re renting tools instead of buying them is to save money. It would be a shame to flush money down the drain by renting your tools from someone who overcharges you. The tricky part about comparing prices on equipment rentals is that the diverse pricing models tool rental companies use make it difficult to determine which is the most price effective option. Some companies charge by the hour. Some charge a flat rate. Some have seemingly low prices but then heap undisclosed surcharges onto the final bill.To get the best deal, you should get estimates from several providers. Request an estimate of the total bill so that you can make a straight across comparison. And always ask if they have any promotions or deals available for the equipment you are interested in renting.
- Safety
Construction equipment can be extremely dangerous to work with, especially if you are not properly trained on it. Before selecting a tool rental provider, pay attention to the safety precautions they use to protect their customers. Do they thoroughly inspect and test their equipment between jobs to ensure they’re operating safely? Do they provide extensive task training on each tool that you rent so that you are prepared to use it safely? Do they provide any additional safety equipment you need to protect yourself on the job, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves? These are considerations that show you the commitment an equipment rental provider has to their customers. - Deposit and Insurance
The equipment you are renting is worth thousands of dollars. Your rental company is going to request a deposit to protect their asset in case it is stolen or damaged in your stead. While the equipment is in your possession, you may have to fork over a certain amount of money that is refunded when you return the tool in good working order. While it might not be a huge amount of money, it could impact your cash flow and should be considered.Additionally, some tool rental companies offer a limited insurance policy, so that if you break it through the course of the job, you aren’t stuck footing the entire bill for it. If you aren’t the type who likes to gamble with thousands of dollars, checking on the availability of this might be a good idea.
Do you have any other tips for selecting a tool rental provider? Please share in the comment section below!