4 Questions To Ask When Renting Construction Equipment

If you run a construction business, there might be some equipment that you choose to rent instead of buy. This is often a better choice when you have a new business without the capital for new equipment or certain equipment is only needed every once in a while. Before choosing who to rent the equipment from, ask them these important questions. 

How often is the equipment maintained?

The first thing you need to know about the construction equipment is how often it is inspected and maintained. You want to rent equipment that is going to work efficiently without issues. If a tractor breaks down when you are halfway through the job, it not only means stalling the job but going through the trouble of renting new equipment and having it dropped off. This can have a negative effect on the current job and others that get put off while you wait for a new tractor to be delivered. In addition to learning about the maintenance, find out what the policy is if the equipment is not working properly and you need something else promptly.

Do you offer drop-off and pick-ups of equipment?

It is also good to know whether or not the equipment rental company offers drop-offs of equipment, or if you need to arrange to pick it up on your own. It is very convenient to have a company that will drop it off and pick it up for you. However, there are also some disadvantages. For example, if you are in a rush for the equipment, they might not deliver it according to your schedule. In this case, you might not be too concerned about delivery options. In other cases, it may be something you need because you have no way to haul the equipment to the job site on your own.

Are there any additional fees after returning the equipment?

The rental company will likely provide you with a quote for the rental, but it is good to find out about other fees that might be included. It helps to know if you will be responsible for minor repairs needed if you caused unintentional damage to the equipment and whether or not you need to pay an additional fee to have insurance on the equipment.

Do you offer discounts for long-term rentals?

Some rental companies might provide you with a discount if you decide to go with a long-term rental, such as renting it for several days or even weeks, as opposed to a few hours or a day for the rental. Speak to the rental company (such as LAX Equipment Rental) about how long you will realistically need it for and what the cost difference is between short-term and long-term rental costs.