So you’ve got a big project you want to do yourself, but you don’t have the right equipment. If you need a piece of expensive equipment for only a limited time and you don’t have the space to store it, renting can be a much less expensive proposition than buying.

Many service providers, including the local hardware store and specialty rental companies, offer equipment for hourly or daily rental periods. And, almost any item can be rented, including lawn and garden tools, and plumbing and general construction equipment.

Nine tips to consider before making an equipment rental:

1. Reservations: Many companies allow you to reserve a time, pay and make delivery arrangements online.
2. Security deposits: Some contracts require security deposits. The amount varies depending on the amount of time you expect to use the equipment or a percentage of the value of the equipment you’re using.
3. Add-ons: Depending on where you rent equipment, you may be required to pay mandatory or optional charges, including fuel surcharges or environmental fees.
4. Insurance: Some companies require rental insurance for protection against damage, theft and liability.
5. Safety: This is a big consideration when renting equipment. Some companies offer training courses for everything from erecting and dismantling scaffolding to operating backhoes. Some even offer web-based training.
6. Maintenance: Some contracts, especially for longer-term rentals, may require the user to maintain and repair the equipment.
7. Regulations: When using rented equipment, make sure you understand the local and state regulations for its use. For instance, California law limits the amount of time self-propelled diesel-powered vehicles may be left idling.
8. Customer service: Make sure there is some way you can reach someone in case you need help or there is a problem with the equipment.
9. Sharing: It may be tempting to split the cost of a rental with a friend or neighbor, but this can be more trouble than it’s worth. Some contracts, in fact, specifically forbid this.