Lighting equipment rental in Europe

10 lighting equipment rental companies across 5 countries in Europe, with the largest concentrations in the United Kingdom (4), France (2) and Germany (2).

10 entries in Events — Lighting equipment rental

Securing the right lighting for an event, production, or installation in Europe isn't always as simple as a quick Google search. Different countries have varying power standards, connector types, and local availability, and the specific demands of a theatre show often differ wildly from those of a corporate conference. Understanding the market dynamics and available options before you commit can save significant logistical headaches and unexpected costs, ensuring your vision is illuminated exactly as planned.

The European lighting rental market is characterised by a mix of established global players and highly specialised local providers. While companies like PRG (Production Resource Group) and Blackout provide extensive inventories for large-scale events and touring productions, smaller, boutique firms often excel in niche areas like vintage practicals or cutting-edge LED installations. Platforms such as Gearbooker also facilitate peer-to-peer rentals, allowing individual professionals and smaller companies to monetise their equipment or source hard-to-find items.

This directory aims to simplify the search for lighting equipment rental across Europe. While we are still building out our listings, future updates will allow you to filter by equipment type, brand, and service offered, helping you connect with the ideal supplier for your project. Keep an eye on our country-specific pages as we expand our coverage.

Frequently asked

What types of lighting equipment can I rent in Europe?
You can typically find a wide range of lighting equipment for rent across Europe, catering to various needs. This includes intelligent fixtures like moving heads and spotlights from brands such as Robe and Martin, conventional fixtures like PAR cans and Fresnels, and LED installations for architectural and stage applications. You'll also find control desks from manufacturers like GrandMA and Avolites, dimmers, power distribution units, and a comprehensive array of rigging hardware, cables, and accessories. Specialist firms might also offer unique items like pyrotechnics or atmospheric effects machines.
Do I need specific certifications to operate rental lighting equipment?
Operating professional lighting equipment, especially in a production environment, often requires specific expertise and sometimes certifications. While you don't necessarily need a certification to rent the equipment itself, venues and production companies may insist on qualified technicians for operation, particularly for complex rigging or high-power systems. For example, in Germany, the "Sachkundiger für Veranstaltungstechnik" (Expert for Event Technology) certification is common, while in the UK, various health and safety qualifications like PASMA or IPAF might be required for working at height.
What is the typical rental period and cost for lighting equipment?
Rental periods for lighting equipment are highly flexible, ranging from a single day to several weeks or even months for long-term installations. Daily rates are common, with discounts often applied for weekly or monthly rentals. A basic PAR can might cost €5-€15 per day, while a high-end moving head from Robe or Clay Paky could be €80-€200 per day. Control desks might rent for €100-€500 per day. Always request a detailed quote, as delivery, setup, and technical support are often quoted separately.
How does delivery and setup of lighting equipment usually work?
Most professional lighting rental companies in Europe offer delivery and setup services, particularly for larger projects. This is often an additional charge based on distance, equipment volume, and the complexity of the setup. Some companies, like Eventec in the Netherlands, have their own transport fleets and technical crews. For smaller rentals, you might be expected to collect and return the equipment yourself. Always clarify transportation logistics and whether technical expertise for setup is included or available as an add-on service when getting a quote.
What kind of insurance do I need when renting lighting equipment?
When renting lighting equipment, it's crucial to understand the insurance requirements. Most rental companies will require you to have sufficient insurance to cover loss, theft, or damage to the equipment during the rental period. This often means having a comprehensive production insurance policy or a specific short-term hire policy. In some cases, particularly for smaller rentals, the rental company might offer a waiver or insurance option for an additional fee, typically 10-15% of the rental cost. Always confirm the specific insurance obligations with the provider before finalising your rental agreement.

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