Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Trampoline Installer

Installing an inground trampoline is an exciting project. It transforms your garden, gives children (and adults) a fun and safe way to play, and can even add value to your home. But like any project that involves groundworks, preparation, and professional installation, clear communication between you and your trampoline installer is absolutely essential.

1. What Preparation and Groundwork Will Be Needed?

The first – and perhaps the most important – question to ask is what kind of preparation your garden requires before the trampoline can be installed. An inground trampoline is different from an above-ground model because it requires a hole to be dug and a base prepared. This part of the project can vary significantly depending on your garden’s layout, soil type, and drainage conditions.

Why this question matters:

You’ll want to know if heavy machinery (like a mini digger) will be brought into your garden.
You should ask where the soil will go. Will the installer take it away, or do you need to plan for disposal?
If your garden has a slope, ask how that will be managed. Sometimes extra levelling or retaining structures are required.
Drainage is critical. A poorly prepared base can lead to standing water, which is bad for both safety and the trampoline’s lifespan.

Follow-up questions to consider:

How deep will the hole be, and what size?
What happens if rocks or difficult soil are encountered?
Do I need to mark out utility lines (gas, water, electricity) before digging?
Will you supply all the materials needed for the base, or do I need to arrange this?

Pro tip: A good installer should be able to walk you through the full groundwork plan, explaining each stage in plain language. If the explanation feels vague, don’t be afraid to press for more detail.

2. How Will Drainage Be Handled?

Drainage deserves its own question because it’s one of the most common sources of problems after installation. Without proper drainage, the trampoline pit can collect rainwater, leaving a soggy, unusable mess that’s frustrating for parents and unsafe for children.

Why this question matters:

Ireland is famous for its wet weather, so good drainage isn’t optional – it’s essential.
Poor drainage can lead to mud, waterlogging, or even structural issues with the trampoline frame.
Fixing drainage problems after installation can be more expensive and disruptive than getting it right from the start.

Options your installer might suggest:

Installing a gravel base layer to allow water to percolate away.
Fitting a soakaway or drainage pipe to direct excess water elsewhere.
Using a sump pump system if your garden has particularly poor natural drainage.

Follow-up questions to ask:

What drainage solution do you recommend for my garden’s soil type?
Is the drainage system included in your price, or will there be an additional cost?
How do I maintain the drainage system once the trampoline is in place?

Pro tip: Ask to see examples of how your installer has managed drainage on past projects. A professional will usually have photos or references.

3. What Safety Measures Are Included in the Installation?

Safety is the number one reason many families choose an inground trampoline. Being flush with the lawn makes it easier for children to climb on and off without the risk of falling from height. But safety isn’t automatic – it depends on the quality of the installation.

Why this question matters:

Proper installation ensures the trampoline sits securely and won’t wobble or shift.
Safety padding and enclosures may still be necessary depending on who will use the trampoline.
The installer should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter, as improper fitting can void warranties and compromise safety.

Follow-up questions to ask:

Will you secure the trampoline frame in place, and how?
What kind of safety padding or edge protection do you recommend?
Do you recommend adding an enclosure net, even for an inground trampoline?
Do you carry out a safety check after installation, and will you show me what to look out for in future?

Pro tip: Safety isn’t just about the trampoline itself – it’s also about the area around it. Ask your installer if there are any hazards (trees, fences, patios) nearby that should be considered, and whether you need to add safety surfacing or extra clearance space.

4. What’s Included in the Price – and What Isn’t?

Costs can sometimes be a point of tension in installation projects. By asking upfront, you’ll avoid the stress of unexpected charges.

Why this question matters:

Some installers give a fixed quote, while others estimate and then add extras as the project progresses.
Ground conditions can sometimes cause additional work (like removing rocks or adding drainage), and you need to know if those are included or billed separately.
Disposal of soil and waste material can be costly, and not all installers include it.

Follow-up questions to ask:

Is this a fixed-price quote or an estimate?
Does the price include VAT?
What happens if extra work is needed once digging starts?
Is soil removal included, or will I need to arrange a skip?
Does the price include the trampoline itself, or just the installation?

Pro tip: Get everything in writing. A professional installer should be happy to provide a written breakdown of what’s included. This avoids confusion and gives you confidence in what you’re paying for.

5. What Aftercare or Warranty Do You Provide?

Finally, think beyond the installation itself. A good installer should not just fit the trampoline and leave – they should stand by their work.

Why this question matters:

Even a well-installed trampoline may require adjustments over time, especially as the ground settles.
Knowing who to call if there’s a problem gives you peace of mind.
Warranties protect your investment and ensure that the work has been carried out to a high standard.

Follow-up questions to ask:

Do you offer a guarantee on the installation work? If so, how long does it last?
If I have a problem with drainage or stability after installation, will you come back to fix it?
Does the trampoline manufacturer’s warranty remain valid with your installation?
Do you provide guidance on seasonal maintenance (e.g., winter care, inspections)?

Pro tip: Keep a record of your warranty and any aftercare instructions. Having this information handy makes it easier if you ever need to make a claim or call your installer back.

Bonus Question: How Long Will the Project Take?

While not part of the official top five, this is another useful question to ask. Most inground trampoline installations take between 1–3 days depending on the size of the trampoline and the complexity of the groundworks. Knowing the timeline helps you plan around the disruption and ensures you’re not left with a half-finished project.

Bringing It All Together

Clear communication is the foundation of a successful inground trampoline project. By asking your installer the five key questions we’ve outlined – about preparation, drainage, safety, pricing, and aftercare – you’ll set clear expectations on both sides.

Instead of worrying about surprises or misunderstandings, you’ll know exactly what’s happening, why it’s being done, and how it will benefit your family in the long run. That means you can focus on what really matters: the excitement of watching your kids bounce, play, and laugh in the safety of your own garden.

Final Thoughts

At Trampolines Ireland, we believe that installing an inground trampoline should be a positive, stress-free experience from start to finish. Asking the right questions at the beginning ensures everything runs smoothly and gives you complete confidence in your investment.

Whether you’re at the research stage or ready to book your installation, our team is always happy to answer questions and guide you through the process. After all, a trampoline isn’t just a piece of play equipment – it’s the heart of countless family memories.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to discuss your trampoline project, and let’s make sure it’s done right the first time.

Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Trampoline Installer