Frequently Asked Questions
All the Frequently Asked Questions you may have about hiring equipment from us.
Is a welfare unit with shower and toilet available as a single unit?
Yes. Several of our units combine a toilet, wash basin and shower in one cabin, along with canteen seating and a drying area. This is the usual choice for teams of up to around eight. For larger workforces, a standalone shower block alongside a standard welfare unit avoids queues at the start and end of shifts.
How many people does a welfare unit hold?
Capacity depends on size. A 12ft mobile welfare unit typically accommodates up to 7 people, and a 16ft unit up to 8. Larger static units of 20ft to 24ft take bigger crews, and canteen and mess units run from 10ft to 32ft. If your headcount is above the capacity of a single unit, two units stacked or sited together is the normal solution.
Generators & Lighting
• Hours of Usage: When we hire a generator, we will agree on either a limited or unlimited hour contract. In the case of limited hours, please be aware that additional charges may apply if the agreed hours of usage are not adhered to.
• Fuel: All fuel is supplied on a sale or return basis. Please fill the tank before returning it to avoid any additional charges.
• Installation/Decommissioning: Unless specifically arranged through us, the hirer is responsible for both installation and decommissioning. This means that on collection, the generator must be unplugged and ready for collection, along with any ancillary items, in the same condition as when it was delivered.
Site Security and Fencing
• We will require the completion of a security set‑up form, which will enable us to provide a fully operative and compliant unit. This will require password confirmation and the details of who can access the security systems on your behalf. This form will be provided during the order process.
• Fencing & Barriers: Ensure that fencing and barriers remain in place and undamaged.
• Delivery Options: Hiab delivery options are available; however, if this has not been booked, the delivery will require manual or telehandler off‑loading and loading. Should we have to wait on site, please be aware that waiting charges might apply.
• Return Condition: Items should be returned clean and in the same condition as delivered.
• Decommissioning: Blocks should be stacked and clips returned, and fencing/barriers must be decommissioned, stacked correctly, and ready for collection.
Tools & Equipment
• Return in Working Order: Clean and check tools before collection.
• Accessories: Ensure that all accessories (leads, chargers, adaptors, etc.) are returned with the equipment.
Site Services
• Fuel & Water Deliveries: Plan deliveries in advance to avoid disruptions.
• Effluent Removal: Schedule regular servicing to maintain hygiene and efficiency.
• Accessibility: Ensure that the unit to be serviced is accessible – if you move the unit, the service truck may not be able to access it.
Operated Plant
• Certification: Please let us know if you require copies of the operator’s certification before the start of the job. The relevant CPCS, NPORS, or equivalent certification will then be provided.
• Insurance Cover: Insurance cover for the unit may be required – please check with PAL, as this may depend on the length of hire.
• Delivery Timing: Plant may need to be delivered the day before the operator is due to work, to ensure that it is ready for the operator’s start time.
Plant & Powered Access
• Inspect Before Use: Check for leaks, tyre condition, and general wear.
• Follow Safety Guidelines: Ensure that only trained personnel operate machinery.
• Fuel Levels: Fuel is offered on a sale or return basis, so please ensure that fuel levels are full.
• Electrical Machines: Electric machines must be adequately charged to ensure smooth collection – for example, scissor lifts need to be collapsed.
Welfare Facilities
• Toilets and Site Accommodation: It is your responsibility to keep units clean and to report any maintenance needs promptly. Please carry out daily visual checks on generator dials and fuel levels to ensure that your equipment functions properly.
• Accommodation/Stores: Ensure that accommodation or stores are empty and available for collection from the off‑hire date.
• Final Tank Empty: Book in a final (complete) tank empty – we can assist with this via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk. Please note that a final empty is different from a normal or routine empty, as it is a complete empty. Toilets cannot be collected if they contain any effluent.
Skips, ROROs, and Waste delivery and collection
• Accessibility: We require a 3m access width to collect or deliver a skip, and we can lift no higher than 2ft. Please consider any obstructions, such as walls.
• Road Licences/Skip Permits: Road licences or skip permits may be required if the skip is to be placed on a public highway, where cones and lights may be required depending on the council. We can help with this via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk, but this must be requested at the start of your contract.
• Hydraulic Legs: Hydraulic legs are used on skip delivery and collection vehicles, so please be aware of where you would like the item placed and the potential risk to drains or manhole covers.
Skips, ROROs, and Waste Collections
Do not overfill skips and ensure that only permitted waste types are included. Charges will be incurred if any of the below are put in a skip:
Hazardous & Toxic Waste
• Asbestos – Requires specialist removal.
• Batteries – Contain harmful chemicals.
• Paints, Solvents & Chemicals – Can be flammable or toxic.
• Fluorescent Tubes – Contain mercury.
Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE Waste)
• Fridges & Freezers – Contain refrigerant gases.
• TVs, Monitors & Computers – Classified as hazardous waste.
• Washing Machines & Dishwashers – Must be processed through WEEE recycling.
Flammable & Explosive Items
• Gas Cylinders – Even empty ones can be dangerous.
• Aerosols – Can explode under pressure.
• Petrol, Diesel & Oil – Pose a fire risk and contamination hazard.
Medical & Biological Waste
• Sharps (e.g., needles, scalpels) – Risk of injury or contamination.
• Clinical & Pharmaceutical Waste – Requires specialist disposal.
Heavy & Bulky Items
• Plasterboard – Can emit harmful gases when mixed with waste.
• Tyres – Must be recycled separately.
• Large Quantities of Soil & Rubble – Some skips have weight restrictions.
Other Prohibited Items
• Mattresses – Some companies may charge extra or may not allow them.
• Food Waste – Can attract pests and cause odour issues.
• Liquids (e.g., paint, chemicals, cooking oil) – Pose a risk of spills and contamination.
• Hazardous Waste – Segregate and label hazardous waste properly to comply with regulations.
We are able to remove any items on the above list, although this will require specialist removal at a cost. Contact the team via 0161 482 6200 if you need us to help.
• Heavy Waste: Heavy waste, such as bricks and rubble, can only be placed in eight‑yard skips and smaller. Only light general waste should be placed in larger skips due to lifting capacities. Should you have large amounts of heavy waste, a RORO may be more suitable. Alternatively, we can arrange for planned, regular collections of eight‑yard skips or smaller – for example, in cases where space is limited.
• Accessibility: We require a 3m access width to deliver a skip, and we can lift no higher than 2ft. Please consider any obstructions, such as walls.
• Additional Options: Drop‑down doors, lockable, or enclosed skips can be requested.
• Road Licences/Skip Permits: Road licences or skip permits may be required if the skip is to be placed on a public highway, where cones and lights may be required depending on the council. We can help with this via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk, but this must be requested at the start of your contract.
• Documentation: We understand the importance of waste compliance and, to help you comply with your duty of care, waste transfer notes can be provided. However, this must be requested at the start of your contract.
• Hydraulic Legs: Hydraulic legs are used on skip delivery vehicles, so please be aware of where you would like the item placed and the potential risk to drains or manhole covers.
Electrical and Fuel-Powered Equipment
Electrical equipment should be charged to enable collection (for example, powered scissor lifts). Fuel-powered machines should be returned with the same amount of fuel with which they were delivered (charges may be incurred if not).
Cleaning Charges
Cleaning charges may be incurred if equipment is returned unfit for use.
Toilets and Welfare Units – Final Tank Empty
All toilet facilities should be emptied before collection. Contact us via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk, and we can arrange this.
Accommodation/Stores
Ensure that accommodation or stores are empty and available for collection from the off-hire date.
Fuel Levels
If the item was delivered with fuel, please return it with the same level of fuel as when delivered.
Preparation for Collection
All equipment should be disconnected or dismantled and ready for collection from the off-hire date.
Off-Hire Usage
Equipment should not be used after the off-hire date, even if it remains on site.
Keys
Please supply any keys provided – you will be asked for their location in your Collection Questionnaire.
On-Load Facilities
Please inform us if you have on-load facilities on site to assist with collection.
Inform Site Personnel
Ensure that staff are aware of the collection date to avoid any delays.
Ensure Clear Access
The collection site should be free of obstructions to allow safe collection. All equipment should be at the designated location (where originally delivered, unless you have advised us of any changes) and left in the same condition as it was delivered (stacked, locked, or arranged as appropriate), ensuring that all items are clean and free of debris where reasonably possible.
Update Contact Details
Please inform us if your site contact has changed since delivery. Your designated site contact is our key point of contact, so please ensure that their details are accurate.
Provide Accurate Collection Information
We will send you a collection questionnaire. Please check that all the relevant information is correct, including a site contact detail, and ensure that the questionnaire is completed and returned as soon as possible to help us meet your requirements and avoid delays or potential collection issues.
Please note
that hire charges may still be incurred until the issue is resolved, and we may request that site security is implemented (if not already in place) to replace any equipment on site.
Contact us
via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk with the date and time (where possible) of the incident, any photos or CCTV footage, and your crime reference number.
Report stolen or vandalised equipment to the police and obtain a crime reference number.
Please report breakdowns or servicing issues immediately
You can do this via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk. Provide details of the equipment, asset number, the issue you are experiencing, and your site contact details so that we can resolve the issue quickly.
Secure Equipment
Lock and store equipment properly when not in use to prevent theft or misuse.
Protect Against Weather
Store equipment appropriately to prevent damage from rain, snow, or extreme temperatures. If you are unsure about anything, please call us on 0161 482 6200 for advice.
Perform Regular Checks
Ensure daily inspections are carried out to identify any wear or faults early. Make sure that fuel and water levels are regularly topped up to prevent any damage to the equipment. Report any faults immediately via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk.
Follow Usage Guidelines
Please read and adhere to all instructions provided.
Provide Evidence
Take photos or obtain CCTV footage of any damage, faults, or incorrect deliveries to speed up the resolution process.
Please report any issues within 36 hours
This will help us to ensure a swift and accurate resolution.
Site Contact Text Message
We send a text message to the site contact upon delivery. A reply to this message will be picked up by our team and actioned accordingly.
Contact us directly
If you have any issues on site, you can report them to us via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk, and one of our agents will be happy to help.
Waiting Charges
Charges for waiting time may apply if we are required to wait to gain access to a site or to drop off the equipment.
Meet the Delivery Driver
The designated site contact should be available and reachable on the number you provided to check the equipment, confirm the drop-off, and sign the delivery note. As this contact is our key point of communication for your delivery, please ensure their details are accurate.
Off-Loading Facilities
Please confirm if you have off-loading facilities on site.
Booking In
Advise us if we are required to book in to access the site, and let us know whether driver and vehicle details need to be provided.
Site Access Codes
Provide us with any necessary site access codes.
Ground preparation
Ensure that the delivery area is stable and suitable for the equipment. If the ground is soft or unstable, we may not be able to manoeuvre vehicles safely. Track mats may be required; please contact us via 0161 482 6200 or support@palhire.co.uk, and we can arrange this
Ensure Clear Access
The delivery site should be free of obstructions to allow safe unloading.
Delivery Times
While we aim to meet all requested delivery times, this is not always logistically possible. Only paid-for, timed deliveries are guaranteed. All deliveries are subject to prevailing traffic, weather conditions, and any other mitigating circumstances beyond our control.
Provide Accurate Delivery Information
We will send you a delivery questionnaire. Please check that all relevant information is correct, including site contact details. Ensure that the questionnaire is completed and returned as soon as possible to help us meet your requirements and avoid delays or potential delivery issues.
Order Confirmation
Please check your order confirmation against your purchase order and requirements and advise us of any discrepancies before your order is despatched.
Ensure you have appropriate insurance cover
All items must have the appropriate level of insurance cover to protect those on site (except skips and nine or fewer toilets). The cover should be sufficient to protect all items, not just individual pieces. Where the cover is insufficient, we will contact you to improve your policy or offer our damage waiver, which will cover the items on site for a set fee.
Fixed Pricing & Nominated Users
We can set up a national pricing structure on most items to ensure a smooth, streamlined process and help you maintain greater budget control. You can nominate the users and set up passwords at the start of the hire for those who are authorised to order on your company’s behalf, thereby preventing account misuse.
On-Hire Reporting
We offer all customers the ability to access an on-hire report, which provides full visibility of what is on hire and what is not – assisting with effective site management. Please speak to your account manager to arrange this.
Standards and Specifications
We want you to receive exactly what you ordered. Therefore, if there is a specific requirement or standard of equipment you need, please ensure that your account manager is informed and that this is included in your purchase order. We can then search our network of suppliers and ensure you receive precisely what is needed for the job. Specification sheets or pictures are always available to help you understand the quality and specifications of the equipment.
FAQ 1
What happens if I miss a toilet service?
If a service is missed due to access issues, the next attempt will be the following week.
Can you deliver skips over walls?
We can! Skips can be delivered over walls to a maximum of 3ft.
Do I need to pay upfront?
Yes, we take card payment over the phone, bank transfer, PayPal or cheques as methods of payment. Your order isn’t confirmed till we receive the full payment or in some cases a deposit can be accepted.
Will the price change if i have the skip for more than 1 day?
No, the price will remain the same whether you have the skip for 1 day or 2 weeks – it’s the disposal of the waste you are paying for not the length of the hire.
Can I put anything in a skip?
The skip must only be filled with what’s purchased. I.e. Mixed waste, metal etc.
What can I not put in my skip?
| NO |
| Asbestos |
| Batteries |
| Biological Waste |
| Computer Monitors |
| Corrosive Liquid |
| Diesel |
| Electrical Equipment (WEEE) |
| Explosives |
| Fire Extinguishers |
| Fluorescent Tubes |
| Fridges |
| Gas Cylinders/ Aerosols |
| Hazardous or Harmful Materials |
| Laboratory Waste |
| Lightbulbs |
| Liquids |
| Mattresses |
| Medical Waste |
| Oils |
| Paint and Paint Tins |
| Pesticides |
| Petrol |
| Plasterboard |
| Solvents |
| TVs |
| Tyres |
Does the portable toilet need to be connected to the mains?
No, the toilets are self-contained, so no mains connection is needed.
Can I put a portable toilet inside?
The portable toilets can’t go inside for health and safety reasons. The toilets are approx. 7.5 feet tall and 4ft wide.
Can I put a skip on the road?
You can with a permit from the council, but this is something we can arrange for you.
How long can I keep a skip for?
You can keep the skip for approx. 3-4 weeks unless your skip is on the road with a permit. If you have a permit the length of time you can keep the skip will depend on the councils requirements.
What if I am not available to be on site to give the keys to the driver?
Keys should be kept in a safe place for the driver to collect, failure to do so may result in failed delivery charges being incurred.
Does it matter if the container is not completely empty when it is collected?
We are unable to collect any container that is not completely empty. Failed delivery charges may be incurred if this is the case.
What happens if my product gets damaged during my hire period?
You are liable for any damages that occur during your hire. If any damages do occur, let us know as soon as possible so we can inform our depot.
If there’s fuel in the equipment, is that in with the total price?
All fuel is charged on a sale or return basis. You can either return the equipment with the same amount of fuel as delivered, or purchase the fuel used.
What fuel does my equipment need (plant, generators etc)?
This will depend on the machine, although it is commonly diesel, Bio Diesel or Petrol, ask your account manager for a confirmation to prevent damages.
Can you give me an exact date and time for delivery?
We can only give a rough ETA for delivery on the day it will be delivered. If we are unable to deliver due to a lack of access, an additional charge may be incurred.
Can I move my toilet?
You can move the toilet as long as it’s still within 10 metres of where it was delivered and can be accessed by a servicing van. If you decide to move it over a wall, it must be back where it was delivered in time for collection and you are liable for any damages that occur during moving.
Will my toilet be serviced?
Yes, your toilet will be serviced once a week, with the day of service subject to change. The day subject to change depending on area demand, the service consists of emptying the unit of effluent, and replenishing the consumables. The toilet must be no more than 10m away from where the servicing vehicle can park.
What are the consequences of over loading a skip?
Every skip should be filled to the maximum fill level, failure to do so will result in wasted journey and additional hire charges.
Will you collect as soon as I’ve off-hired?
It can take up to 7 days for collection, sometimes a little longer due to demand, so make sure you let us know within plenty of time for your PAL Hire experience to run as smooth as possible.
These are some of the frequently asked questions about hiring equipment from us. We are the UK’s largest network of equipment hire depots. Where we put you first as a client, focusing on reliability and quality of hire services. You can hire everything from portable construction toilets, welfare units and larger plant items. Including excavators, rollers and dumpers. Not to mention a full range of waste management services.
