What is included
Confirm exactly what arrives with each game. For cornhole that means whether the boards are regulation 48 by 24 inches, how many bags come with each set, and whether the bags are usable or worn out from a season of events.
Ask about condition standards. Rental equipment sees heavy use, and a board with a worn surface plays differently at one end of the lane than the other if the pair has been mixed with other stock.
| Question | Why it matters | Get it in writing |
|---|---|---|
| Exact equipment and quantity | Board size and bag count vary | Yes |
| Condition standard | Worn surfaces play inconsistently | Yes |
| Delivery and setup scope | Curbside drop versus full setup | Yes |
| Pickup timing | Determines overnight responsibility | Yes |
| Damage and weather liability | Rain damage terms differ widely | Yes |
| Cancellation and postponement | Outdoor events get moved | Yes |
Delivery, setup, and timing
Establish the delivery window, who carries equipment to the play area, and whether setup is included or the crew drops boxes at the curb. For venues with load-in restrictions, the difference matters.
Confirm the pickup time and who is responsible for the equipment between the end of the event and pickup. Overnight equipment left on a wet lawn is a common source of damage charges.
Damage, weather, and cancellation
Read the damage policy for normal wear versus damage, and ask specifically about rain. Some contracts hold the renter responsible for water damage even when the weather was outside anyone's control.
Check the cancellation terms and any weather clause. Outdoor events benefit from a policy that allows postponement rather than only a refund window.
Rent or buy
Renting makes sense for a one-time event, for oversized games that are hard to store, and when you want delivery handled. Buying makes sense when the equipment gets reused, when you want custom boards to keep, or when rental costs for a few games approach the purchase price of a set.
Compare the combined rental quotes for your expected events with purchase, delivery, maintenance and storage costs. Include the work of moving and checking equipment each time.
A few common questions
Is it cheaper to rent or buy lawn games?
For a single event with several games, renting is usually cheaper and removes storage and transport. Across two or three events, purchase costs often come out lower if you have somewhere to keep the equipment.
Do rentals include setup?
It varies by company and package. Confirm whether the crew places equipment in the play area or only delivers to an access point, since venue load-in rules can make that a significant difference.