What You Need to Know Before You Commit
You don’t have time to fix mistakes on event day.
When the rain starts, the ground softens and the site crew is late, you’ll want to know your marquee is already standing.
You’ll want proof it’s been risk-assessed, documented, and signed off.
You’ll want one call that gets answered.
You’ll want experienced people who know the ground, know the weather, and know how to stay on track when plans change.
If you’re planning an event in or around Edinburgh, here’s what to check before hiring a marquee.
Look for Local Experience
Not every site in Edinburgh is straightforward.
Sloped gardens in the New Town.
Hard standing at the Castle.
Wind tunnels near the coast.
Ask your supplier:
- How many Edinburgh builds have you done this year?
- Have you worked with this venue before?
- Can you walk the site with me before quoting?
Local knowledge keeps you off the back foot.
Understand the Scope of Service
Some suppliers drop off canvas and drive away.
Others manage full infrastructure.
Be clear on what you need:
- Build and break
- Flooring
- Lighting
- Power
- Fire safety documents
- Ground protection
- Site logistics Crew supervision
You don’t want five different companies on site arguing over cables.
Check Response Times and Paperwork
You will need:
- Method statements
- Risk assessments
- Public liability insurance
- Structural calculations
- CAD layouts
Ask to see examples.
Ask when you’ll get them.
If the answer is vague, walk away.
Visit a Live Build
Ask to visit another installation.
- See how the crew works.
- Check the condition of the kit.
- Are they wearing PPE?
- Are they on time? Is the site clean?
It tells you everything.
Think Beyond the Tent
You’re not buying a structure.
You’re buying peace of mind on event day.
You want to know:
- Who’s responsible if something fails?
- Who’s onsite during build and break?
- Who owns the issue if power cuts out mid-service?
You don’t want a different answer every time you ask.
We’ve built in storm conditions, on 300-year-old lawns, in restricted access zones, with five-tonne cranes.
We’ve got kit approved for Royal events and plans reviewed by Edinburgh Council.
We can tell you what works and what doesn’t.
Get in touch.
Tell us your dates and your brief.
We’ll show you what’s possible.
