Rental Policy

1. A deposit may be required at Buddies Rentals’ discretion, including but not limited to new customers, high-value or heavy equipment, or peak demand periods. Where collected, deposits are applied toward the total rental balance. Deposits are generally nonrefundable unless otherwise agreed in writing. The remaining balance is due at pickup or delivery. Accepted payment methods: cash, local check, debit, or credit card. A credit or debit card may be kept on file for post-rental charges, including but not limited to fuel, cleaning, damage, or additional rental time. Customers with approved charge accounts may be invoiced.
2. A valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID is required at the time of rental.
3. A rental day is generally 24 hours, unless otherwise agreed. Certain equipment may have a minimum rental period. Metered equipment is based on up to 8 hours of run time per rental day. Additional meter time may be pro-rated at Buddies Rentals’ discretion. Rental charges are based on time in possession, not time of use.
4. Rentals that extend beyond normal business hours may be charged as an overnight rental or additional rental day, depending on availability and equipment class. Weekend pickup and return hours are limited and subject to change.
5. Pickups and returns should occur during posted business hours. Delivery service is generally available Monday–Friday for an additional fee based on mileage. Weekend delivery is limited and must be arranged in advance. Equipment must be reasonably cleaned, folded, stacked, or rolled prior to return or pickup.
6. Equipment should be returned by the agreed-upon time. Late returns will result in additional rental charges, which may include hourly fees, a full additional rental day, or both, at Buddies Rentals’ discretion. If late return or extended possession prevents other scheduled rentals, the renter may be responsible for associated charges.
7. Fuel and cleaning fees will be charged as applicable based on the condition of the equipment upon return. Fuel-powered equipment should be returned with a full tank of fuel. If returned low on fuel, a refueling fee may be charged. Equipment should be returned reasonably clean and free of mud, debris, or residue. Cleaning fees may apply for equipment returned in poor condition.
8. Equipment must be used only for its intended purpose. Equipment should remain at the agreed job site or location unless otherwise approved by Buddies Rentals in advance. Subleasing or transferring equipment to others is not permitted without written consent. Equipment should be kept secure when unattended. Any issues or concerns with equipment should be reported to Buddies Rentals as soon as possible.
9. If equipment is used or moved prior to the scheduled rental start time, the rental period may begin at that time. The renter is responsible for the equipment from the moment it is in their possession.
10. The following are prohibited: (a) using a handheld device while operating equipment; (b) operating equipment under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or any other intoxicant; (c) abusing, misusing, or modifying equipment; (d) exposing equipment to hazardous or flammable substances; or (e) allowing unauthorized persons to operate equipment.
11. The renter is responsible for any damage to, loss of, or theft of equipment from the time it leaves Buddies Rentals until it is returned, regardless of cause. The renter agrees to pay reasonable repair or replacement costs, including parts, labor, and related expenses. Damage should be reported to Buddies Rentals as soon as possible.
12. If equipment breaks down or proves defective during the rental period, stop using it and contact Buddies Rentals. If the malfunction was not caused by misuse or negligence, Buddies Rentals will work with the renter to repair, replace, or credit the equipment at its discretion.
13. Cancellations with short notice may result in forfeiture of any deposit paid. In cases of severe weather or emergencies, Buddies Rentals may issue a credit toward a future rental at its discretion.
14. Balances not paid when due may be subject to late charges. Accounts significantly past due may be referred to collections. The renter may be responsible for reasonable collection costs, including attorney fees, as permitted by law. Buddies Rentals reserves the right to suspend future rentals for accounts with outstanding balances.
15. For high-value or heavy equipment, including but not limited to skid steers, mini excavators, and similar machinery, the renter may be required to provide proof of general liability insurance prior to or at the time of rental. Where required, the certificate of insurance shall name Buddies Rentals LLC as an additional insured. Buddies Rentals reserves the right to require proof of insurance for any equipment at its discretion.
16. Buddies Rentals is not the manufacturer of any rental equipment. All equipment is provided “as-is” without warranty of any kind. Buddies Rentals makes no guarantees regarding fitness for a particular purpose.
17. The renter assumes full responsibility for the equipment and its use from the time it leaves Buddies Rentals until it is returned. Buddies Rentals shall not be liable for any injury, damage, or loss arising from the use or misuse of rented equipment. The renter agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Buddies Rentals, its owners, employees, and agents from any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, or expenses (including attorney fees) arising out of or related to the use, possession, or operation of the equipment.
18. This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Nebraska. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Washington County or Dodge County, Nebraska, as applicable. If legal action is commenced, Buddies Rentals shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and costs if it prevails.
19. THEFT WARNING: Failing to return rented equipment, or obtaining equipment through deception or any means intended to avoid payment, may constitute theft under Nebraska law and may result in criminal prosecution and/or civil penalties. See Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-511 et seq. for details.
20. Digital, electronic, and photocopied signatures on this agreement are considered valid. This agreement represents the full understanding between the parties. If any provision is found invalid or unenforceable, the remaining terms remain in effect.
21. Buddies Rentals reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to waive or reduce any fees or charges. Any such waiver shall not be considered a precedent or a modification of this agreement.