What's the one mistake you see first-time renters make?

Question

Hi everyone, I'm helping organize our community garden's annual plant swap and potluck next month. We expect about 80 people over a Saturday afternoon, with food and a few coolers of beer. I'm in charge of ordering the portable toilets, and it's my first time. I keep reading about extra fees for blocked access or units that aren't on level ground, and I really want to avoid unhappy gardeners. Our garden has a gravel path where the truck can pull right up, so placement seems straightforward, but I'm nervous about the details. What's the one mistake you see first-time renters make that I should watch out for? Is it underestimating the number of units needed, forgetting the ADA requirement, or something about the service schedule?

Porta Potty Forum Team · Answer

The one mistake is underestimating the number of units needed. For 80 people over an afternoon with food and alcohol, one or two standard units will not be enough. The industry guideline starts near one portable toilet per 50 to 75 people for a four-hour event, but alcohol and food mean more use, so plan for at least two standard units. Also, the ADA cluster rule requires at least one ADA-compliant unit when multiple units are placed together, so add that. Service frequency is weekly for normal use, but your event is one day, so a single service after should suffice. Avoid extra fees by ensuring the gravel path is truly level and the truck has clear access on service day, blocked units result in missed service charges. Confirm all details with the rental company in writing.

What's the one mistake you see first-time renters make?

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