Starting a small rental business in Ontario.

Start with what you have

One tent, a set of tables, a projector. Take clear photos in daylight, write down the size, and decide your day and weekend price.

Be where renters look

Most first bookings come from Marketplace, Kijiji and friends of friends. Post there, then reply with one link to your shop page so every renter sees your dates, prices and terms.

Check before your first booking

• Insurance: ask your insurer whether renting out your items is covered.
• Permits: large tents and inflatables can need permits or inspections. Check with your municipality, and with the TSSA for inflatables.
• HST: the Canada Revenue Agency explains when a small business must register. Check its small supplier rules as your rentals grow.

Write your terms once

Decide what happens with damage, rain and late returns, and write it down. On RentStand it goes in your terms and your rental agreement, and every renter reads it before they send a request.