Bouncy Castle

Hiring out bouncy castles and other inflatable play equipment can be a good part time business. There is plenty of business to go around, but remember that the Summer months will be much busier than Winter.

Here is some of the basic information and hints/tips to help you decide whether setting up a bouncy castle rental business is for you…

Bouncy castle costs and hire charges
A new bouncy castle will cost between £1,000 and £2,000 depending on size, shape and whether you require any customisation (such as your name/phone number). You could buy a second hand bouncy castle but this is not recommended if you don’t know what to look out for. Generally speaking you can charge between £50 and £100 per hire, depending on how long the bouncy castle is required for.

In addition to the castle itself, you will also need accessories like a ground sheet, electric fan blower, emergency repair kit and ground pegs to secure the castle.

Liability insurance
Whilst not a legal requirement, it is a very good idea to get public liability insurance. This would cover you in the event of accidents - be they personal injury or damage to property.

Contracts
You can hire out inflatable equipment on a handshake but it isn’t really very professional. It’s a good idea to have a basic contract written up to confirm the details that you agree with customers. You can buy these on the internet.

Licences and laws
No licence is required to start a bouncy castle hire business. You are required to compare with health and safety legislation though.

Be professional
Unfortunately a small number of cowboys can ruin the image of the inflatable hire business for everyone else. Remember that you represent your business and your best source of new business is by word of mouth recommendations. So it’s always good to be professional and to keep your customers happy.

• Don’t turn up to appointments looking scruffy or smelling like you’ve just come out of the pub.
• Don’t smoke while working.
• Answer the phone professionally and always return calls promptly when someone leaves you a message.
• Always give your full contact details to the customer.
• Keep a good diary of your bookings and never double book yourself!

In addition, consider registering for the PIPA scheme.

Other costs
Additional costs to consider when setting up a business are:

• Accountancy fees
• Advertising
• Business cards
• Van/trailer costs (including insurance, petrol, maintenance, cleaning)
• Inflatable maintenance (puncture repairs, cleaning, etc)

Further sources of advice/help
Additional information on starting a business is available from your local Business Link. Information specific to bouncy castles can be obtained from industry associations and also from bouncy castle manufacturers.