Weather & Outdoor Booking Policy
At Best Party Hire, safety always comes first. While we do everything we can to make your hire go ahead as planned, inflatables are weather-dependent and cannot be used in unsafe conditions.
This page explains what counts as unsafe weather, how wind and rain are assessed, who makes the final decision, and what happens if weather affects your booking.
What Counts as Unsafe Weather?
Unsafe weather includes any conditions where inflatables cannot be used safely, including:
Excessive wind gusts
Severe or persistent rain
Waterlogged or unstable ground
Thunderstorms or lightning
Extreme weather warnings
All decisions follow PIPA testing guidance and BS EN 14960 safety standards.
High Wind Rules (Key Safety Factor)
Wind is the most important safety factor. Decisions are based on wind gusts, not just average wind speed.
If forecast wind gusts exceed 30mph
→ We may cancel the hire the night before for safety.
If forecast wind gusts are between 24mph and 30mph
→ We will attend and take a local wind reading before setup.
Conditions vary by location:
24mph in an open field can be more dangerous than
29mph in a sheltered area
The final decision is based on:
Wind gust speed
Real-time, on-site readings
Local shelter and surroundings
Professional judgement
If conditions are unsafe, we will not set up.
This decision is final and made purely for safety.
Wet Weather & Rain Guidance
Light rain or brief showers are usually fine.
Heavy or persistent rain, or pooling water, may make use unsafe.
All electrical equipment supplied is:
IP24 rated or above
Suitable for outdoor use in light rain when used correctly
If rain compromises safety or equipment:
The inflatable will not be set up, or
May need to be taken down early
Thunder, Lightning & Extreme Weather
Inflatables must not be used during:
Thunderstorms
Lightning
Severe or extreme weather warnings
If these occur during your hire, equipment may need to be deflated immediately.
Indoor Bookings & Weather
✔️ Indoor bookings are not affected by weather
✔️ They go ahead as planned unless venue access itself is unsafe
Indoor venues are the best backup option during unsettled weather.
Who Makes the Final Decision?
The final decision is made by Best Party Hire because:
We are responsible for safe installation
We must follow manufacturer and insurance rules
We have a legal duty of care
We never cancel lightly. If we cancel, it’s because conditions are genuinely unsafe.
If We Cancel for Weather
If we cancel due to unsafe weather:
We will offer a change of date first
If rebooking is not suitable, you will receive a full refund, including the Admin/Booking Fee
Important Notes
If weather becomes unsafe after setup, refunds are not available, as time, labour, and setup costs have already been used
If you choose to cancel due to weather concerns but conditions are deemed safe, normal cancellation terms apply
Timing of Weather Decisions
Forecasts change.
We monitor forecasts in advance
Borderline decisions may be made closer to the event
Cancellations may happen the night before or on the day if needed
Safety decisions are made as early as possible, but never without reliable information.
Responsibility of the Hirer
The hirer is responsible for:
Providing a suitable, level, accessible setup area
Following all safety instructions
Not using equipment against advice
Any use against instructions is entirely at the hirer’s own risk.
Our Promise
We never cancel lightly.
Parents trust us with children’s safety, and we take that seriously.
If we cancel, it’s because conditions are unsafe, not because it’s inconvenient.
Need Reassurance or Advice?
If you’re unsure about the forecast or want to talk through your options, we’re happy to help.