Generator hire costs vary depending on the power output you need and how long you need the equipment. For small petrol generators, the cost is less compared to larger silenced diesel models. Fuel isn't included in the hire, and delivery and optional damage waiver also add to the total. You can check all prices online.
Which generators can I hire from HSS DIY?
Check out the generators available to hire, from the smallest to the most powerful. Choose the one that matches what you need to power, then select your dates to see your exact price.
You’ll find prices that include and exclude VAT on every product page. Your final price depends on the dates you choose and is confirmed before you book.
Need more power? Larger generators are available through our Power hire range on request.
* Prices correct as of 12 October 2026, inc. VAT, and subject to change. See the live generator hire pages for current pricing.
What affects the cost of generator hire?
Hiring a generator depends on a few things, so it’s worth knowing what they are before you book. Here’s what affects the price.
Generator size and power output
The more power you need, the larger the generator and the higher the hire rate. Our 2.6kVA petrol generator gives 2.2kW of continuous power, while the 10kVA silenced diesel gives around 5.8kW. Choosing the right size means you don't pay for more power than you need, or end up with a generator that can't cope.
Hire duration
Prices depend on the length of hire. Most generator hires at HSS DIY last between two and five days. If you need it for longer, you can extend your hire through your HSS DIY account.
Generator type
- Portable petrol generators (1.6kVA to 4kVA): these are lighter, lower cost and easy to collect in an estate car. They’re best for short jobs and smaller loads.
- Silenced diesel generators (6kVA and 10kVA): these offer more power, longer run times and quieter running
- Larger site generators: available on request for bigger projects. Contact us for a quote.
Fuel
Fuel isn’t included with any generator. Petrol models are supplied empty, so buy unleaded at a fuel station and carry it in an approved container (petrol cans are available at checkout). For diesel models, white or HVO fuel can be bought separately online
What size generator do I need?
The right generator depends on what you want to power, not on a standard size. To work it out:
- Add up running watts. Total the wattage of everything you'll use at the same time. You'll find it on each item's label or manual.
- Allow for starting watts. Motors in tools, pumps and fridges draw extra power for a moment when they start. A 1kW concrete mixer can need around 3kW to start.
- Add 25% headroom. This stops the generator running flat out.
- Compare with continuous output. Use the generator's continuous output, not its maximum. Our 6kVA diesel, for example, gives 4.3kVA continuous.
Check the voltage too. Site tools often run on 110V, while household appliances need 240V. The 1.6kVA Suitcase Generator is 110V only.
Are there any additional generator hire costs?
The hire rate isn't always the full cost. Depending on your hire, you may also pay for:
- Delivery and collection: collecting from your local HSS DIY branch is free. Petrol generators fit in an estate car, but the 6kVA and 10kVA diesel models are heavy and need a 7.5-tonne truck and lifting equipment to move, so delivery is the practical choice. Enter your postcode on the generator’s product page to see the delivery charge.
- Damage waiver: this is optional, at 16% of the hire charge but worth having. It covers accidental damage, and loss or theft up to £5,000, subject to an excess. Read about damage waiver.
- Deposit: we may ask for a deposit depending on the kit being hired, which is returned after the hire, less any amounts owed.
- Extending or returning late: hire charges continue for any extra time you keep the generator.
- Damage and cleaning: you may be charged for repairs or cleaning if equipment is returned damaged or dirty.
- Insurance: the 6kVA and 10kVA diesel generators require your own plant hire insurance.
- Accessories: a tail lead may be needed for 240V equipment, and an RCD is recommended outdoors.
Is it cheaper to hire a generator for longer?
Your price depends on the hire period you select, so it's worth comparing a single day with a longer hire. Here's how pricing compares for the 2.6kVA Portable Petrol Generator:
- 1 day – £28.76*
- Weekend (Fri-Mon) – £32.87*
- 1 week – £41.09*
If you're not sure how long you'll need it, book what you need now and extend through your HSS account if the job runs over.
Hiring a generator for home use
You can hire a generator from HSS DIY to keep essentials running during a power cut or for DIY projects without mains power. For most homes, a 2kVA to 4kVA generator such as the 2.6kVA Portable Petrol or 4kVA Petrol will run a fridge freezer, lighting, a router and chargers.
A portable generator won't run a whole house. High-wattage appliances like kettles and electric showers can overload a small generator, so total up what you need first.
Stay safe:
- Always run a generator outdoors in open air, never in a garage, shed, porch or conservatory. Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which has no smell and can kill.
- Never plug a generator into a wall socket. This can feed power back into the network and seriously injure others. Connecting to home circuits needs a changeover switch fitted by a qualified electrician.
- Use an RCD and outdoor-rated extension leads.
Read more in our guide to hiring a generator for winter power cuts.
Get a generator hire price from HSS DIY
Prices for generators all depend on how long you want to hire them for as well it’s output.
You can use hired generators from HSS DIY to power your home after a power outage, for tools on a construction site or even for large outdoor events.
Ready to find your exact price? Browse and compare generators for hire, check their power outputs, fuel options and prices side by side. Check for availability and arrange a delivery or to collect the kit yourself.
Need a larger generator? No problem! Simpy contact us and get a quote. If you need some help choosing the right generator for the job, talk to our team on live chat, weekdays 9am–5pm
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