Mistakes To Avoid When Renting Portable Restroom Units

Portable restroom units are a necessity for outdoor events, construction sites, and other temporary locations. However, while renting portable restroom units may seem like a straightforward process, there are many factors to consider if you want to select the best units for your needs. Making the wrong choice can lead to unnecessary expenses, unsanitary conditions, and unhappy guests or workers. Follow along as we discuss the common mistakes that people make when renting portable restrooms and provide tips on how to avoid them.

1. Not Considering the Number of Guests or Workers

One of the most common mistakes people make when renting portable restrooms is not considering the number of people who will use them. Electing for too few restrooms can lead to long lines and unsanitary conditions, which can ruin the experience for your guests or workers.

A general rule of thumb is to have at least one restroom unit for every 50 guests for an event or for every 10 workers on a construction site. However, additional factors such as the duration of the event and the consumption of food and beverages can influence this ratio.

2. Choosing the Wrong Type of Units

There are various types of portable restroom units, including standard, deluxe, and luxury options. Choosing the wrong type can result in either insufficient facilities or unnecessary expenses. Remember, opting for the cheapest units may save you money initially, but it probably won’t be the best choice in terms of comfort and functionality.

Standard units are the most common and are ideal for construction sites or casual outdoor events. These units typically include a toilet, urinal, and hand sanitizer. Deluxe units, on the other hand, offer additional amenities such as a sink with running water, soap dispensers, and interior lighting, making them suitable for more formal events. A portable hand washing station rental may be just what you need to ensure your event is safe and hygienic.

3. Not Considering Accessibility Needs

If you have guests or workers with disabilities, it is essential to consider their accessibility needs when renting portable restrooms. Make sure to choose units that are ADA-compliant and have appropriate features such as handrails and ramps.

These units accommodate wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments, featuring larger doors, increased interior space for maneuverability, and handrails to assist in movement. Additionally, these units can feature non-slip flooring for added safety.

4. Not Considering the Location of the Units

The placement of portable restrooms is crucial for both convenience and sanitation. Placing them too far from your event or work area can discourage people from using them, while placing them in an unsuitable location can lead to odors and unsanitary conditions.

The chosen location should have a flat and solid surface to ensure the units are stable and easily reachable for servicing trucks. If your event goes into the night, make sure that the area is well-lit to allow safe and easy access. Always consider local regulations about waste disposal when choosing your location.

5. Not Scheduling Regular Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping portable restrooms clean and functional. Failure to schedule regular cleaning and servicing can result in unpleasant experiences for your guests or workers. Regular maintenance of portable restrooms is non-negotiable, especially for long-term rentals or large-scale events.

A well-maintained restroom ensures a clean and hygienic environment and contributes to a more pleasant user experience. Maintenance services typically include cleaning the unit, replenishing supplies, and pumping out the waste.

6. Not Considering the Duration of Use

The length of your event or project will determine how often you need to have the portable restrooms serviced. Not considering this aspect of the rental can lead to overflowing units and unpleasant experiences for everyone involved.

Typically, having the units serviced at least once a week is recommended for multi-day events or long-term construction projects. However, depending on the number of users and the weather conditions, you may need more frequent servicing.

7. Not Getting a Written Agreement

Securing a detailed written agreement with your rental company is a vital step in the process of renting portable restroom units. A written agreement protects you from unexpected costs or disputes and ensures that the rental company remains accountable for delivering the agreed-upon services.

Get a written agreement with the rental company outlining all the details of your rental to protect yourself from any unexpected costs or disputes. This agreement should outline all the terms and conditions of the rental, including the type, number, and cost of units, delivery and pickup dates, maintenance schedule, and additional services provided.

8. Not Considering Emergency or Backup Options

When organizing an event or managing a worksite, it’s important to prepare for unexpected situations that could disrupt your plans. Create backup options for your portable restroom units in case of unexpected situations, such as power outages.

Consider having a few extra units on standby or talk with your rental company about their emergency response measures in case you need additional units on short notice.

9. Ignoring Reviews and Recommendations

Before renting from a company, make sure to read reviews and recommendations from previous customers. Their feedback can give you valuable insight into the quality of their services.

Reviews from past customers contain valuable information about the reliability and quality of the rental company’s services. They can provide insights into the company’s professionalism, timeliness, cleanliness, and responsiveness to issues or emergencies.

10. Not Setting Aside Enough Budget

Lastly, it’s essential to set aside a sufficient budget for renting portable restrooms. Cutting corners on this expense can result in inadequate facilities and unhappy guests or workers.

Many underestimate the costs of renting these units, which can lead to financial strain or the need to compromise on essential aspects such as quality, the number of units, or maintenance services. It’s crucial to remember that the costs include the rental price of the units as well as delivery and pickup fees, maintenance costs, and any additional amenities or services.

Keep Your Guests and Workers Happy

Renting portable restroom units may seem simple, but ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved requires careful consideration. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips provided, you can ensure that your event or project runs smoothly without any restroom-related issues.

Remember to plan ahead, consider all factors, and choose a reputable rental company for the best results. So, next time you plan a big event, keep your guests and workers happy and comfortable by avoiding these mistakes when renting portable restroom units. Happy renting!