There are dozens of different styles and types of rental tents and thousands of tent rental companies throughout America. You may need to rent a frame tents, a wedding tent, a tent for a corporate function or maybe a sporting event but there are some questions that you must ask before you sign a contract to ensure that you receive the best rental experience possible. The following are the first seven questions that need to be asked before your next rental:
1.How long have you been in business? You are looking for a company that has been in business for a long period of time. Tent rental companies that survive for twenty or more years must be doing something right and since events are growing increasingly complicated you want a company with a great deal of experience. A number of the best rental companies in the U.S. have been in business for 50, 75 even 100 years and these are the rental companies that you need to search for.
2.How long has the salesperson that you are dealing with been in the business? You might have chosen a company with many years of experience but if you get a new salesperson that lacks event management experience, then you could be putting your event in jeopardy. It is best when you can deal with the owner or a member of the management team since they have a vested interest in keeping you happy.
3.How old is the tent that I am renting? Tents don’t last forever and whether it is a party tent, a clear span tent, a commercial tent, large tent or any other type, the fabrics can become dull and damaged over time. Some companies turn over their inventory every couple of years while others stretch out their replacement cycle over many years. Newer is better.
4.Will my tent be clean? Sounds pretty basic but you would be surprised at the number of tents that have mold, mildew or dirt on them because of time or money pressures on the rental company. You have a right to a clean tent so ask about its condition (and get it in writing).
5.Is my tent engineered? Smaller tents are not yet a major concern, but in many jurisdictions all tents, especially large tents, are coming under increasing scrutiny from building and fire inspectors. The IBC codes are the most recognized for tents but depending on your location, other applicable codes might govern your tent. The last thing you want is an event that is not permitted because of a lack of engineering for your tent. Good companies that inventory quality tents will have this engineering on hand so ask to see it.
6.What will you do to protect my yard from damage during installation? Certain precautions can and should be made to do as little damage to tent installation surfaces as possible. Discuss your concerns with your tent rental company before they arrive on site.
7.What are your payment terms: Most rental companies will require a deposit to hold the equipment that you have agreed to rent. If you are unfamiliar with your rental company and the quality of work that they do, you should consider holding at least a portion of your final payment until after the event.