Common Pitfalls in Bouncy Castle Hire
Hiring a bouncy castle should be simple and stress-free, but certain issues come up time and time again.
Most problems are avoidable with a bit of planning and the right information.
This guide highlights the most common pitfalls we see in bouncy castle hire and explains how to avoid them, helping your event run smoothly from start to finish.
Not Measuring the Space Properly
One of the most frequent issues is underestimating how much space a bouncy castle needs.
Measuring only the inflatable footprint, without allowing for clearance, often leads to problems on the day.
You should allow extra space around the inflatable for safe access, anchoring and supervision.
Our How to Measure a Garden for a Bouncy Castle guide explains exactly what to check before booking.
Overlooking Height Restrictions
Height is often forgotten, especially for indoor venues or gardens with trees, cables or nearby buildings.
Bounce & slide units and taller inflatables need more vertical clearance than standard castles.
This is particularly important when booking from our Bounce & Slide Bouncy Castles range or larger inflatables.
Choosing the Wrong Surface
Not all surfaces are suitable for bouncy castle hire.
Grass is usually ideal, but waterlogged ground, loose paving or uneven decking can make safe setup impossible.
Hard surfaces require weighted anchoring, and some artificial surfaces may not be suitable at all.
Our Bouncy Castle Surfaces - Indoor Halls, Grass, Concrete, Astroturf and More guide explains surface suitability in detail.
Ignoring Weather Conditions
Weather is one of the biggest factors affecting inflatable safety.
Strong wind, heavy rain or poor ground conditions can prevent safe setup, even if the forecast looked fine earlier.
Failing to consider weather risks can lead to last-minute cancellations or disappointment.
Our Adverse Weather Guidance for Bouncy Castle Hire explains how weather decisions are made and what options are available.
Assuming All Bouncy Castles Are the Same
Different inflatables suit different age groups, spaces and event types.
Choosing an inflatable that’s too large, too small or unsuitable for the audience can affect safety and enjoyment.
Our How to Choose the Right Bouncy Castle guide helps match inflatable types to your space, age range and event.
Not Considering Access Routes
Even if your garden or venue is large enough, access can still be an issue.
Narrow gates, steps, tight corners or long carry distances can prevent delivery or setup.
Checking access routes in advance helps avoid delays or cancellations on the day.
Leaving Booking Too Late
Popular dates, especially weekends, school holidays and summer months, can book up quickly.
Leaving your booking too late reduces choice and flexibility.
Our How Far in Advance Should I Hire a Bouncy Castle guide explains typical booking times and busy periods.
Misunderstanding Supervision Responsibilities
While we handle professional setup, supervision during use is the responsibility of the hirer.
Lack of supervision can lead to overcrowding, unsafe play and increased risk of injury.
Our Bouncy Castle Safety Guide clearly explains supervision expectations and safe use rules.
Expecting Customer Setup or Collection
Some people assume they can collect or set up a bouncy castle themselves.
This is not permitted due to safety, insurance and installation requirements.
Our Why Only Professionals Can Set Up Bouncy Castles guide explains why professional installation is essential.
Not Planning for Power Requirements
Bouncy castles require a constant power supply.
If power is more than 30 metres away or not available at all, a generator may be required.
Thinking about power early helps avoid delays on the day of delivery.
How to Avoid These Pitfalls
Most issues can be avoided by:
- Measuring space accurately
- Considering surface and access
- Planning for weather and power
- Booking early and asking questions
Using our guides and seeking advice before booking makes the whole process much smoother.
Local Experience & Practical Advice
We regularly deliver bouncy castles throughout Coleraine, Ballymoney,
Limavady and Ballycastle.
Local experience helps us spot potential issues early and advise customers honestly.
Need Help Avoiding Problems?
If you’re unsure about any aspect of bouncy castle hire, it’s always best to ask before booking.
Clear advice in advance can prevent disappointment and ensure your event runs as planned.
For personalised guidance, please contact us via our Contact Us page and we’ll be happy to help.