The first thing I learned at my first catering job was that the bathrooms were going to be remembered, for better or worse.Porta Potty Rental Company In Union County NJ is the same, or you’re going to learn that soon enough. Whether it’s a backyard graduation party, a fall festival in Cranford, or the concrete mixers in Linden, someone needs a bathroom, and it’s not your home. Questions like cost, how many you’ll need, and whether they’ll smell are all valid ones, and I’m going to talk about what I’d want to know as the one writing the check, and how I’d want it to be answered.
How Many Units Will You Need?
Most people underestimate a bit, and then a line of twenty by 3 pm has everyone talking. The rule of thumb is one unit per fifty guests on a short event, a few hours or so, and more for a longer event. An event with alcohol served adds more again, because of people’s drinking schedules. On a construction site it’s generally a unit for every ten workers on a normal forty hour week, and OSHA has their own numbers to cross reference. It’s a good idea to round up if you’re between numbers, because an extra unit costs less than a long line of disgruntled guests can damage your reputation.
How Much Will a Rental Run?
The numbers vary based on the unit, the length of the rental, and how often they’re serviced. A basic unit for one day’s event is one number, a month on a job site with weekly service is another, with the price per day dropping off the longer you rent. The delivery and removal can count for a line item as well, and asking if one company’s base price includes what the other might count as extra is a good idea. Don’t base a decision on the headline price of two companies, ask about what all is included before committing, and a few bucks for a straight invoice is worth it if you avoid a surprise bill.
Standard, Deluxe, or ADA?
Not all units are equal, and that’s a good thing. The basic portable toilet is great for a construction site or casual backyard party, and for a weekend at the farm stand. A deluxe model adds a sink, sometimes a mirror, and a bit more space, and makes a noticeable difference for a wedding or corporate event. Units that are ADA accessible are a step up, and have a ramp and more space inside for someone in a wheelchair. If the event is open to the public, you probably want at least one of these, and may need more depending on your area. Hand sanitizer stations are inexpensive and handy, so toss a couple in, and flushing units are available, but require more setup. Water access is a consideration for all of them.
Where Should Units Go?
The logistics aren’t exciting, but they do matter. The site needs to be accessible to the trucks both for delivery and removal, and a flat, stable surface is a must, especially after rain. Keeping them far enough away that they’re convenient, but not close enough to the food tent that attendees think about while they’re eating, is a balance. Lighting is a consideration if the event runs after sunset, which many forget about until it’s too late. Job sites need them away from heavy equipment and in a place where workers can get to them without losing ten minutes round trip. Wind is a consideration, too. I know that’s strange, but a downwind position from the dining area is not ideal.
How Often Are They Serviced?
A one day event usually only needs one cleaning before and possibly one during if it’s large. Multi-day events need more frequent cleanings, and job sites are cleaned weekly. With a large crew or in hot weather, twice a week is a good idea. Cleaning entails emptying the tank, scrubbing, refilling paper and hand sanitizer, and topping off the fresh chemical solution in the unit. A good company will show up on time, and if it’s a hot July week in New Jersey, they don’t have an option. If a unit begins to smell or the paper is gone, give them a call and ask for an unscheduled service call. Any reputable company will send someone. If they don’t, it’s time to find a new one.
Getting Permits, Booking Early, and Other Details
Make sure to book early. I can’t emphasize this enough. Peaks in the fall on weekends and spring weddings tend to book out early, and units that are nicer get reserved first. Four to six weeks is a good goal for most events, with larger festivals needing much more advance planning. Some towns in Union County require permits for events on public land, so double check with your municipality before paying any deposit. Tell the company about any concerns about the event space, such as security gates, narrow roads, or low branches that could interfere with delivery. Confirming the pickup time is also important, because you don’t want units waiting to be picked up three days after your event. Basic details, but worth mentioning as it’s surprising how often they go ignored, usually with a five minute phone call.
Conclusion
As mentioned, renting porta potties isn’t difficult, but a few planning details make a world of difference. Get your headcount sorted, pick the unit types and size, and book early. When looking for options for portable toilet rental in New Jersey, a local company who will answer calls and show up as promised is the best option. It really is mostly all of that. For events and job sites in this area, Poor John’s Portable Toilets is a good place to start. They handle rentals from small backyard parties to larger job sites, and can help you get what you need without the hassle. Give them a call and ask questions.
Poor John’s Portable Toilets
110 West Front Street, Keyport, NJ 07735
Phone: +1 732-888-0032
FAQs
How far in advance should I book a porta potty?
About two to four weeks is a good window, with peak seasons and larger festivals potentially needing more planning ahead.
How many portable toilets do I need for 100 guests?
Two to three units for a short event, more for a larger event or one with alcohol served, and always err on the side of more when in doubt.
Do I need an ADA accessible unit at my event?
If the event is open to the public it’s a good idea to have at least one accessible unit, and check with your town or rental company.
How often are job site units serviced?
Weekly is standard, but twice monthly is a good idea with a large crew or in hot weather to avoid overflow.
What affects the price of renting a portable restroom?
The type of unit, length of rental, frequency of service, distance to and from the event, and any extras that might be included.
Can portable toilets go on grass or gravel?
It depends on the ground, but generally speaking it needs to be level and firm enough to allow the rental truck to enter and exit easily.
