What Is a Tool Rental Company and Why Would You Use One?
If you’ve ever taken on a DIY project and thought, “I’m only going to use this tool once—why would I buy it?”, then you’ve already had the same thought that leads many people to a tool rental company.
A tool rental company, also called a tool hire company, is a type of equipment rental service that helps people get access to professional-grade tools without having to buy them outright. If you’ve been wondering, “What are tool hire companies and what do they do?”, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from how they work, to what they offer, to where you can find tool hire services in Ireland.
Why People Choose Tool Hire Over Buying
It Saves Money—A Lot of It
Let’s face it—good tools are expensive. And unless you’re using that floor sander or stump grinder every week, buying one doesn’t make much sense.
A few summers ago, I decided to renovate my garden. I needed a rotavator to break up some stubborn clay soil. Buying one would have cost me over €800. I rented it for a weekend for just under €100. No brainer.
You Get Access to Professional-Grade Gear
Rental companies usually stock high-quality, heavy-duty equipment—the kind professionals use. That means you can do a job faster, better, and safer, even if it’s your first time using the tool.
I once hired a petrol-powered hedge trimmer from A-Z Hire in Dublin for a big overgrown hedge. The job that would have taken me a full day with my basic electric trimmer took about two hours. The tool didn’t struggle, and neither did I.
You Don’t Have to Worry About Storage or Maintenance
Big tools take up space. They also require upkeep—oil changes, blade sharpening, battery charging. When you rent, the company handles all that. You simply use the tool, return it, and forget about it.
For both homeowners and professionals, tool hire companies make projects more affordable, accessible, and efficient—whether it’s a quick fix or a large build requiring short-term equipment rental.
What Do Tool Rental Companies Actually Do?
Tool hire companies in Ireland cater to DIYers, contractors, tradespeople, and even businesses needing specialist tools for one-off jobs. These companies have evolved into full-service hubs that offer more than just rentals.
Tool hire companies do more than just hand over equipment. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Tool hire for DIY, gardening, construction, and cleaning tasks
- Expert advice to help you choose the right tool for the job
- Delivery and pickup (great if the tool is bulky or you don’t drive a van)
- Fully serviced and safe tools ready to use
- Some even offer how-to demonstrations or online videos
They Don’t Just Hire—They Maintain and Repair, Too
What many people don’t realise is that tool rental companies also have experienced technicians who service and repair a wide range of machinery. That includes:
- 4-stroke petrol engines like those used in Honda lawnmowers, power washers, and cement mixers
- Diesel-powered machines, including site equipment and lifting gear
- 2-stroke engines found in landscaping tools like chainsaws, strimmers, and hedge trimmers
Most tool hire companies carry out routine maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on this kind of equipment to keep their fleet in safe working order.
And over the past 10 years, they’ve also had to keep up with modern battery-powered systems, particularly from brands like STIHL. Many hire shops now diagnose, service, and maintain STIHL battery equipment, including the AK and AP battery systems used in professional gardening and landscaping.
So even if you own your own STIHL gear, your local tool hire shop may be able to help you service it, troubleshoot battery issues, or even provide a temporary replacement while yours is being repaired.
Types of Tools You Can Rent
Whether you’re doing a home project or managing a worksite, professional tool hire companies provide access to a wide range of DIY equipment hire and construction tool rental options.
General DIY Tools
- Demolition Hammers
- SDS Rotary Hammer Drills
- Angle grinders
- Circular saws
- Nail guns
- Generators and extension leads
Garden and Landscaping Tools
- Lawnmowers (push and ride-on)
- Grass Trimmers
- Hedge trimmers
- Chainsaws
- Rotavators
- Leaf blowers
- Stump grinders
Construction and Building Equipment
- Cement mixers
- Concrete breakers
- Mini diggers
- Dumpers
- Scaffolding and towers
- Beam lifters (great for moving heavy loads safely)
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Carpet cleaners
- Floor sanders and polishers
- Power washers (petrol and electric)
- Dehumidifiers
- Industrial vacuums
Safety and Access Gear
- Ladders and step-ups
- Safety helmets, harnesses
- Lighting towers
- Barriers and fencing
Where Can You Find Tool Hire Companies in Ireland?
Looking for tool hire near you? Here’s where to start if you’re in Ireland:
A-Z Hire – Dublin 12
A family-run local company with a great reputation for service and expertise. A-Z Hire offers everything from STIHL garden equipment to beam lifters and cement mixers. I’ve personally rented from them multiple times—everything is well-maintained, and the team really knows their stuff. They also service STIHL batteries and power tools, so they’re a reliable stop even if you own your gear.
Website: www.azhire.ie
H$$ Hire – Nationwide
A large chain with branches all across Ireland. Ideal for finding standard tools and construction gear, and their website is easy to use for online booking.
Website:
Brandon Hire Station – UK
Popular with both homeowners and professionals. Offers a wide selection and delivery service across many locations.
Website: www.brandonhirestation.co.uk
Local Hire Shops
Don’t forget your local independent tool hire companies offer competitive prices and excellent service. It’s worth a quick Google search for “hire tools near me” or checking community Facebook pages.
Things to Know Before You Rent
Have the Job in Mind
Know what you need to do—and ask the hire company if you’re unsure which tool will work best.
Ask About Pricing
Rates are usually daily or weekly. We offer discounted rates for multiple items. Get your job done we will offer discounts for multiple items over time , dont be under any pressure hire companies have been working with DIYers and Commercial for many decades
Check Deposits and ID
You’ll usually need a valid photo ID and a deposit, especially for power tools and expensive equipment.
Final Thoughts
So if you’re asking yourself, “What are tool hire companies and what do they do?”, the answer is simple: they give you affordable access to the right tools, without the cost or hassle of ownership. From landscaping tools to construction equipment, and even battery-powered systems, tool hire is an easy, cost-effective solution that’s growing in popularity all across Ireland.
And don’t forget—these companies aren’t just for renting tools. Many offer full maintenance and servicing, especially if you own tools with petrol or diesel engines—or modern STIHL battery systems. It’s like having a tool expert just down the road.
Need Help Choosing a Tool?
If you’re planning a project and not sure what you’ll need—or if you’re between buying and renting—just pop into a local hire shop and ask. Or feel free to ask me—I’ve probably used it or know someone who has.
