Bounce House Rentals and Rain: What You Need to Know About Rain Policies
Aug 30, 2025
When you’re planning a party, few things are as exciting as renting a bounce house. It’s the centerpiece of backyard birthdays, school events, and summer gatherings. But as anyone who has hosted an outdoor event knows, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. That’s where rain policies come in.
If you’re considering a bounce house rental, understanding the provider’s rain policy ahead of time can save you stress (and money) in case the skies open up. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how most bounce house companies handle rainy weather.
Why Rain Policies Exist
Safety is the #1 priority when it comes to inflatables. Wet surfaces can become slippery, increasing the risk of falls or injuries. Electrical blowers that keep bounce houses inflated can also be dangerous if exposed to rain. On top of safety concerns, heavy rain or storms can damage the equipment.
Because of these factors, most providers set clear guidelines around what happens if it rains on the day of your event.
Common Rain Policy Approaches
While policies can vary from company to company, here are the most common approaches you’ll find:
1. Cancelation with No Fee (Before Setup)
Most providers will allow you to cancel your reservation if rain is in the forecast before they deliver and set up. This usually comes with:
A refund of your deposit or full payment, or
A credit toward a future rental date.
👉 Pro tip: If the forecast looks iffy, communicate with your provider 24–48 hours before your event to understand your options.
2. Reschedule Instead of Refund
Some companies may not refund your payment but will gladly let you reschedule. This is especially common with smaller businesses, since weekends are their peak season and open slots are limited.
In this case, you usually get a credit that can be applied toward any future rental within a set timeframe (for example, 6–12 months).
3. No Refunds After Setup
Once a bounce house has been delivered, set up, and inflated, refunds are much less common—even if the rain moves in an hour later. That’s because the provider has already invested time, labor, and transportation costs.
Most companies will clarify this in their contract:
Cancel before setup? You may get a refund or credit.
Cancel after setup? Usually no refund.
4. Light Rain vs. Heavy Rain Policy
Some providers make distinctions between light drizzle and heavy rain or storms. For example:
Light drizzle: The event may still go on, especially if you’ve rented a “wet unit” (a water slide or a bounce house designed for water use).
Heavy rain, thunder, or lightning: Rentals are typically canceled for safety reasons.
Tips for Parents and Event Planners
If you’re worried about weather ruining your party, here are some things you can do:
Ask about the rain policy upfront. Every provider is a little different—some are more flexible than others.
Have a backup plan. Tents, garages, or rescheduling can save the day if storms roll in.
Check the forecast early. Many companies require 24–48 hours’ notice for cancelations or reschedules.
Final Thoughts
A bounce house can take your event from fun to unforgettable—but only if the weather cooperates. Knowing your provider’s rain policy ahead of time ensures you’re not caught off guard by unexpected storms. Whether it’s a refund, credit, or reschedule, most companies want to work with you to make sure your experience is safe and positive.
At the end of the day, planning should feel exciting, not stressful. That’s why the Bouncey team takes care of all the details—like rain policies, reschedules, and safety checks—so you can stay focused on what really matters: the fun.