Understanding insurance when hiring party inflatables

Why insurance should be your first question

When you book a bouncy castle or inflatable slide for a children's party, you're thinking about the fun, not the paperwork. But insurance is the quiet hero of a stress-free celebration. A reputable hire company will have public liability cover in place, and they should be happy to tell you about it. This cover protects you if something goes wrong – a child trips and breaks a wrist, a gust of wind tips the castle, or an adult damages a neighbour's fence. Without it, you could be personally liable. So before you compare prices, ask about insurance.

What public liability cover actually means

Public liability insurance covers claims made by third parties for injury or property damage caused by the hire company's equipment or operations. For inflatables, this typically includes accidents during normal use, as long as the hirer follows the safety rules. It does not cover everything – it won't pay for damage to your own garden or if you ignore the operator's instructions. Most UK hire companies carry at least £1 million of cover, though £2 million or £5 million is common for larger events. Ask to see a copy of their certificate. A genuine provider will email it without hesitation. Check the certificate is current and that it specifically mentions inflatable hire, not just "entertainment" in general. If they can't produce one, walk away.

Weather cancellation: what happens to your money?

British weather is famously unpredictable. A sunny morning can turn into a windy afternoon, and most inflatables cannot be used safely in winds above 24 mph (roughly 38 km/h). Rain makes the surface slippery, and lightning is an absolute no-go. So ask a simple question: "What happens if the weather cancels my booking?" The answer should be clear and in writing. Some companies offer a full refund if they cancel for safety reasons. Others reschedule to another date, or give you a credit note. A few might keep your deposit. None of these are necessarily unfair, but you need to know before you pay. Ask about wind speed limits, rain policies, and how far in advance they'll make the call. If they say "we'll play it by ear", that's a red flag. Get the cancellation terms in your booking confirmation.

Questions to ask before you book

• Are you insured for public liability? What is the cover amount, and can I see the certificate?
• What happens if it rains or is too windy? Will I get a refund, a reschedule, or a credit note?
• Who is responsible for setting up and anchoring? Do you use sandbags or stakes, and will you do a risk assessment?
• What if someone gets hurt? Does your insurance cover injuries to children and adults using the inflatable?
• What about damage to my property? If the inflatable scratches my car or breaks a fence, whose insurance pays?
• Are there any rules I must follow? Maximum users, no shoes, no food or drink, no silly string – and what happens if I break them?

Your responsibilities as the hirer

Insurance only works if you hold up your end of the bargain. Most policies require you to supervise the inflatable at all times, stick to the age and number limits, and keep the area clear of sharp objects. You should also ensure the ground is suitable – flat, free from rocks, and not on a slope. Never move the inflatable once it's set up, and don't use it in high winds or rain. If you ignore these rules and an accident happens, the hire company's insurer may refuse to pay, leaving you exposed. So read the safety instructions, ask questions if anything is unclear, and brief other parents before they let their children bounce.

Red flags and how to protect yourself

If a hire company is vague about insurance, changes the subject, or says "don't worry, we've never had a claim", be cautious. A professional outfit will have clear terms, a certificate on request, and a written cancellation policy. Pay by card where possible – it gives you extra protection if the company vanishes. Keep all emails and your booking confirmation. And don't assume your home insurance covers hired inflatables; it usually doesn't. Finally, trust your instincts. A warm, chatty provider who answers every question patiently is worth more than a bargain that leaves you liable. After all, the best parties are the ones where the only thing that gets bruised is the grass.