Bounce houses are the most profitable item in many party rental businesses, and the riskiest. Kids, air and wind are a combination that needs real safety practices and the right insurance. Getting this right protects the families you rent to and your business.
Why you need specialist insurance
Many general business policies exclude inflatables. Party rental businesses usually buy liability insurance written for amusement or inflatable rentals. Schools, parks, churches and event venues will often ask for a certificate of insurance, sometimes naming them as additional insured, before they let you set up. Get quotes before you buy your first unit, because insurance is a real part of your monthly cost.
State and local rules
Some states regulate inflatables as amusement devices, which can mean registration, annual inspections, operator training or permit stickers. Others have no specific rules. Cities and parks may require their own permits for setups on public property. Check with your state’s agency that oversees amusement rides, often part of the labor or agriculture department, and with your city.
Setup safety
- Follow the manufacturer’s manual for every unit
- Anchor every anchor point with stakes on grass, or sandbags or water weights on hard surfaces
- Set up on level ground cleared of rocks, sticks and sprinkler heads
- Keep a safe distance from fences, trees, power lines and pools
- Use a blower that is rated for the unit, with a GFCI-protected power source
- Place mats at the entrance and exit
Wind and weather
Wind is the biggest danger. Manufacturers set maximum wind speeds for their units, often in the range of 15 to 25 mph. Check the forecast before delivery, carry an anemometer, and train customers to deflate the unit and get kids out if wind picks up or a storm is coming. Have a clear weather cancellation policy so customers are not tempted to push through.
Rules for customers
- An adult must supervise at all times
- Limit the number of riders, and keep similar sizes together
- No shoes, glasses, sharp objects, food or silly string
- No flips, wrestling or climbing the walls
- Deflate in wind, rain or lightning
Put these rules in your rental agreement, have the customer sign it before setup, and leave a printed copy with the unit.
Inspect, clean and log
Inspect every unit for tears, loose seams and worn anchor points before and after each rental, and clean and dry it before storage to prevent mold. Keep a simple log for each unit. If something ever goes wrong, records of inspections and signed rules are your best protection.
Get the rental agreement with the starter kit
Our event and party rental starter kit includes a rental agreement template, a setup and pickup checklist, and a rental catalog with availability, deposits and delivery fees. See our guide to party rental pricing, then vote for the rentals kit. Voters get 20% off at launch.
This is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Always follow your unit’s manual and your state and local rules.
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