There are dozens of different styles and types of rental tents and thousands of tent rental companies. You may need a rental tent for a party, a corporate event or a sporting event but there are some questions that you must ask your potential tent rental companies before you sign a contract to ensure that you receive the best experience possible.
What to ask potential tent rental companies
With so many different types of tent rentals, it’s important to fully understand what type of tent rental company you want to choose. Do you need a party tent rental? Do you need a tent that has heating, flooring, and lighting? Maybe you need a construction tent? Finding potential tent rental companies to match your needs doesn’t need to be difficult, just ask a few questions.
The following are just a few of the 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. 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. Experience is incredibly important in the tent rental industry because it proves their value. The company you should choose be able to adapt and change with the different times and needs.
American Pavilion has been in business for 107 years, making it one of the oldest and most experienced tent rental companies in the U.S.
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.
Your company should understand that each event is different and unique. They should be invested in your success of the event. Those are the companies who will do everything they can to ensure a successful event. They will be the ones to meet deadlines.
3. How old is the tent that I am renting?
Tents don’t last forever and whether it is a party tent, clear span tent, 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.
This is especially important if your tent will be in harsh weather. Old tents just cannot hold up to extreme temperatures like new ones can. If you are looking for construction, warehouse, or industry tents, make sure to ask this question.
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).
No one wants to rent a tent for their wedding that is covered with dirt.
5. Is my tent engineered?
Smaller tents are not yet a major concern, but in many jurisdictions all tents, especially larger ones, 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 rental 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.
Along with the engineering, you want to make sure that the company you choose follows all building codes. This is an important question to ask, regardless of your event or tent needs.
By asking these five questions, you can learn a lot about the tent rental companies. If the person you are speaking with ever becomes uneasy during these questions, that is a red flag. These questions should give you more insight into the company, their products, and their value. If they struggle to answer these questions, they may not be as great as they initially expressed.
Finding a company to meet your tent and event needs doesn’t have to be difficult. Ask these five questions, and you’ll be able to find the perfect tent company.