Factsheet: Starting a Bouncy Castle Rental Business

Quick Summary

Starting a bouncy castle rental business is a fun and profitable way to earn income.

Primarily focused on children’s parties, this business has potential for growth, including corporate events, school fairs, and local community celebrations.

1. Overview

A bouncy castle rental business involves providing inflatable castles for events, typically on weekends.

It requires some initial investment but offers high earning potential with a strong demand in all areas.

Why Start a Bouncy Castle Business

  • High demand for children’s parties.

  • Flexible hours—mainly weekends.

  • Potential to expand into corporate and commercial markets.

2. Initial Start-Up Costs

  • Bouncy Castle: £1,000–£2,000 for a quality inflatable (choose commercial-grade materials).

  • Insurance: Public liability insurance, approx. £100–£200/year.

  • Delivery Equipment: A small van or trailer for transportation, or hire one as needed.

  • Marketing Materials: Flyers, business cards, and a website (£50–£200).

  • Storage Space: Costs vary depending on your location; ideally use a garage or storage unit.

Total Estimated Cost: £1,500–£3,000

3. Training or Qualifications

  • Required: None, though knowledge of safe setup and handling is essential.

  • Recommended:

    • Health and safety training for inflatables (can be found online).

    • Familiarity with industry standards, such as those from the British Inflatable Hirers Alliance (BIHA).

4. Rate of Pay

  • Children’s Party Rental: £50–£100 per hour (typical 2-hour party = £100–£200).

  • Full-Day Rental: £150–£300/day.

  • Additional Services: Offer add-ons like themed castles, package deals, or party games for an extra £20–£50.

Earnings Potential

  • Part-Time (2 parties per weekend): £200–£400/week.

  • Full-Time (5 parties per weekend): £500–£1,000/week.

5. How to Make Money

  1. Set Up Your Business: Register as self-employed and get insurance.

  2. Advertise Locally: Use flyers, posters, and local Facebook groups to reach parents and schools.

  3. Create a Website: Showcase your inflatables with clear pricing and booking options.

  4. Partner with Event Planners: Collaborate with local planners or venues to secure repeat bookings.

  5. Offer Custom Packages: Include extras like delivery, setup, and party games to increase revenue.

6. Tools and Equipment Needed

  • Inflatable Bouncy Castle(s): Choose a durable and safe design.

  • Electric Blower: To inflate the castles quickly.

  • Delivery Van or Trailer: Essential for transportation.

  • Safety Mats and Anchors: Required for safe setup.

  • Cleaning Supplies: Keep inflatables clean after every use.

7. Legal and Compliance

  • Insurance: Obtain public liability insurance to cover accidents or damages.

  • Risk Assessments: Conduct safety checks for each setup.

  • Local Permits: Check if you need council permissions for park or public setups.

  • Self-Employed Registration: Register with HMRC.

8. Day-to-Day Operations

  • Setup and Delivery: Transport, inflate, and secure the castle at the venue.

  • Customer Communication: Provide clear instructions on usage and safety.

  • Maintenance: Inspect and clean inflatables regularly.

9. Challenges to Consider and Solutions

  • Weather Dependence: Have a cancellation policy and offer indoor options (e.g., smaller castles for halls).

  • Storage Space: Rent a secure storage unit if space is an issue.

  • Safety Concerns: Always follow safety standards for setup and operation.

10. Tips for Success

  • Offer themed inflatables to attract more customers (e.g., superheroes, princesses).

  • Invest in a professional-looking website with easy booking options.

  • Join industry groups like the BIHA for support and networking.

  • Provide exceptional service to encourage repeat customers and referrals.