Can You Rent A Digger For Small Home Improvement Projects?

Renting a digger can be an exciting experience for many DIYers. Not only do these machines support professional contractors, but can be used to streamline small home improvement projects. From digging trenches, to laying a new patio or driveway, a digger reduces the overall effort required. If you are considering taking on your own home project and wondering, “can I rent a digger?”, then you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we are going to cover everything you need to know before renting a digger. Including most of the common questions that we get asked here at WHC Hire Services. For over 25 years we’ve supported DIYers with their endeavours to take on their own home improvement tasks. Therefore, we are certain with our help and experience, we can help you get the job done.

Let’s begin by answering some of the most common questions we get asked around digger rental.

Can Anyone Rent A Digger?

In most cases, yes! Diggers are available to rent to the general public as well as professional outfits. Plant hire companies typically require operators to be over the age of 18, provide valid identification and place a security deposit on the equipment. Experience is not a legal requirement to hire a mini digger, however we’d highly recommend to only use equipment you are comfortable with.

Some suppliers may offer guidance on how to use the machinery along with operator support with general troubleshooting errors. If you are ever unsure consult a provider.

What Type Of Diggers Can You Rent?

For the majority of small home improvement projects. DIYers should opt to rent a mini or micro digger. These types of machines should fall into two different weight categories.

Mini diggers (1.5-3T)– Compact, easy to operate, perfect for landscaping, digging out trenches and driveways.

Micro Digger (1T & Below)- Small diggers that are designed to work in tighter spaces. Ideal for accessing small back gardens, but strong enough to dig building foundations.

Both mini and micro diggers are suitable to rent for small home improvement projects. Some selection factors between the designs will be dependent on access, timescale and lift capabilities.

How Quickly Can You Rent A Digger?

You can rent a digger quite quickly providing you find a suitable supplier to meet your needs. Sometimes this can be the same day, but normally within 24hrs. This type of earthmoving equipment is generally well stocked across suppliers. However, it is worth noting that the spring and summer seasons normally see the highest demand for this machinery. Nevertheless, many rental companies can accommodate last minute requests.

Plant hire companies also offer flexible hire durations to suit and match your project’s requirements. Making it easier to budget and work around your task timeline. It is always best practice to book your rental digger in plenty of time, especially during peak seasons.

How Long Can You Rent A Digger?

Rental periods are completely flexible to suit your small home improvement project. For short term requirements, 24hr or weekend hire periods are popular for DIY projects. However, if you are undertaking something a bit larger, then you can always opt for a week hire or more. Usually, your supplier will grant the use of the machinery until you off-hire (notify them that you have finished). This ensures that you only pay for the time that you need.

Do You Need Planning Permission to Make Property Changes with a Rented Digger?

This completely depends on the scope of your project. For small landscaping, usually planning permission is not required. However, if your project requires altering building structures which require significant excavation, or near to boundary lines, restrictions may apply. For more details, you should contact your local council and discuss your needs for planning permission. Nevertheless, a rented digger can be used to conduct property changes that do or do not require planning permission.

How Much Can A Digger Lift?

The lifting capabilities of a rental digger vary between size and manufacturer. It is important that when hiring an excavator for a small home improvement project, that it can conduct all the lifting tasks you will be undertaking. As a guideline, an excavator weighing between 1 and 2 tonnes can lift around 300kg over its dozer blade. For more accurate lift capabilities you should seek advise from your provider.

All rental excavators will come with a lifting chart that will display the lifting capabilities of the machinery. It is essential that you adhere to these to avoid damaging the equipment and jeopardising your safety.

Do You Need Training To Rent A Digger?

While formal training is not required to acquire a rental digger, understanding the basic safety and operation of the machinery is key. Most plant hire supplier will offer a run through of the equipment to help you familiarise you with the basic controls. This may include a short demonstration that will highlight any unique functions. For first time users, this can be invaluable to complete your project safely and successfully.

If you’d like to get a head start on learning basic controls of a mini digger, check out WHC Hire’s QR Enabled support.

How To Get A Quote For Digger Rental?

Getting a quote for digger rental is simple and easy once you’ve found a supplier you wish to work with. You can usually obtain a quote by:

Phone- By calling your supplier directly, you can discuss the details of your project to ensure you get the right machine for the job.

Online Enquiry– If you know what equipment you need, you can request a quote online from most suppliers.

Visit In Person– If you have never used a supplier before, then a visit in person can help you gauge your prospect, inspect the machinery and get some hands-on help selecting your rental digger.

Most quotes are often generated quickly, allowing to explore your options to suit your budget. For more information getting a quote check out “How To Get A Quote From WHC Hire”

Setting You Up For Success

Renting a digger can set your small home improvement project up for success. By opting to use a micro or mini digger, you can truly enhance your efforts. WHC Hire Services specialises in helping DIYers get the most out of digger rental through our commitment and passion for safety within our industry. Whether its your first time renting a digger, or if you are an experienced DIYer, we can help you explore your options to make your next project the most successful one to date.

Reach out to our team at WHC Hire Service today to discuss digger rental with one of our friendly advisors. Or check out our popular mini diggers available to hire.