Tools

Renting Out Your Power Tools: A Practical Guide for GTA Homeowners

Most power tools are used for a few hours a year. Your neighbours need the same tools for the same weekend jobs — and would rather rent from you than buy.

By the ThingShare team · October 1, 2026 · 5 min read

The tools neighbours ask for most

• Pressure washers for decks, driveways and siding every spring.
• Drills, impact drivers and sanders for small renovation projects.
• Tile saws, mitre saws and circular saws for one-off flooring and trim jobs.
• Ladders and extension ladders for eavestroughs and painting.
• Carpet cleaners, stud finders, laser levels and wet/dry vacs for move-ins and move-outs.

Seasonal timing matters in the GTA. Pressure washers and lawn tools peak in spring, while snow blowers peak from December to March. Update your availability calendar so your listing shows up when people are searching.

Pricing that gets booked

Big-box tool rental counters are your real competition, so compare your price with theirs. Being a little cheaper, closer to home and available on weekends is a strong pitch. As a starting point:

• Charge a daily rate that is roughly 3–5% of the tool's replacement cost, with a lower minimum for small hand tools.
• Offer a weekend rate (Friday evening to Monday morning) — that is when most DIY jobs happen.
• Include consumables only if you are comfortable doing so, such as one saw blade or a set of sanding discs, and say so clearly in the listing.

Safety comes first

When you rent out a tool, you are also handing over responsibility for using it safely. A few habits protect both you and your renter:

• Only list tools in good working order. Check cords, guards and blades before each rental.
• Include the manual or a link to it, and a one-line note on any quirks.
• Mention safety gear such as eye protection or hearing protection, and include it if you can.
• Skip anything that needs a licence or special training. ThingShare's terms do not allow those items.

Deposits and damage

Set a refundable security deposit when you list — we recommend 30–50% of replacement value, up to $500 per rental. It is refunded to the renter within 48 hours of a confirmed return in good condition. If something is damaged, report it at return with photos so it can be resolved from the deposit.

What it costs you

Nothing to list. ThingShare's fee is 15% of completed rentals, or a permanent 8% for Founding Listers.