Avoid the Cowboys

We know full well how important it is for the bouncy castle to turn up. Usually it's the centre piece of any party. What if you went and booked a hall and invited 30 children to the party and the bouncy castle doesn't turn up. Have you got a Plan B?

   Does the company have public liability insurance? It is not a legal requirement to have it but it certainly puts         your mind at rest. MJ Castles have £5m public liability insurance for our bouncy castles and a separate £5m policy for our rodeo bulls and fun foods. We are more than willing to show both of our certificates!

   Does the company display their home phone number or just a mobile? Mobiles can easily be turned off. Our        land-line is 0151 448 1649.

   How long has said company been running for? Do a whois check to see when their domain was registered.

   Ask the company if they have a valid and in-date test certificate for the bouncy castle.

   Does the website only carry stock photos? This may suggest the company is outsourcing the work.

   Find out whether the hirer provides pegs, safety mats, rain covers etc and also ask how old their equipment is.

   Does the company have a website? Most of the top / best companies have a website.

    Is the company able to tell you immediately if the item is available for a date? It may suggest they are our            outsourcing if they always have to check and get back to you.

   Type in the company name in to Google. Do any bad reviews pop up?

    Check to see if the hirer is a member of the BIHA or TIPE either by asking them or visiting their website.              These schemes have a code of ethics and are paid memberships so it's a good indication they're a serious operator. You will find out company on the BIHA website at www.biha.org.uk/merseyside/

We have spoke about outsourcing in not particularly great light. We don't doubt it's successful for some companies and things go smoothly. However, we believe it's best if you know who you are dealing with and have their details to hand.

If we can't help you with a bouncy castle and you are still unsure what company to book with, get in touch with us. We have a list of a few companies who have a good track record.