How much does it cost to borrow tools?
Your participation in the Raleigh Tool Share is free. The only requirements are that you:
- Live within the city limits of Raleigh
- Provide proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease
- Provide a copy of a NC Driver’s License or other government-issued photo ID
You must show City staff these documents when you pick up your tool(s) and equipment.
I have a big job to do. How many tools can I borrow at one time?
Currently, you can borrow one of each piece of equipment. List on your Lending Request Form what the project is and what tools you think you need, and we will work with you to see how best to help. Limiting the number of tools loaned at any given time ensures more residents have access to the program.
How do I get the tools and equipment I’m borrowing?
Items must be picked up from and returned to the Raleigh Pathways Center at 900 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC 27601, between the hours of 9 a.m and 12 p.m. Items must be picked up on Wednesday or Friday and returned on the following Monday by the resident who is taking responsibility for them.
The program does not operate on City-recognized holidays.
How long can I use the tools?
It depends on what day you borrow the equipment. If you pick up on Wednesday, you have five days. If you pick up on Friday, you have three days.
| If you pick up on... | You must return on the following... |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | Monday |
| Friday | Monday |
If I’m not finished with my job when the loan expires, can I get more time?
Call us at 919-996-6100. If the tool or tools aren’t scheduled for someone else, you may be able to keep a tool longer.
What if a tool breaks or stops running when I am using it?
Call 919-996-6100 as soon as possible and let us know.
What if a tool is missing or stolen from my residence?
As soon as you realize a tool is missing or may have been stolen, call us at 919-996-6100.
Where should I store the tool when it is not in use?
Tools should be kept inside your garage or residence for safekeeping.
I finished with my tool a day early. Can I let my neighbor borrow the tool?
No. Residents who wish to use City equipment must fill out the proper forms and acknowledgments. Please direct your neighbor to fill out the Lending Request Form.
Can I return the equipment early if I am done with it?
Generally, equipment must be returned on the Monday following pick-up. If you need to return a tool early, call us at 919-996-6100. We may be able to make alternative arrangements.
How will the tool be powered?
The tool you borrow will be battery-operated. We will do our best to have the tool fully charged by your pickup time. However, in the event the tool isn’t fully charged, we will provide a charger that plugs into any standard 120-volt wall outlet. A City staff person will show you how to remove the battery from the equipment and put it on the charger.
Will someone show me how to use a tool?
If the manufacturer has an instructional video online, we will direct you to that video. A City staff person will show you how to start, stop and operate the tool in a safe manner before you leave with the tool.
You can visit the manufacturer’s page for each tool at the links below:
- EGO POWER+ 21” Self-Propelled Mower with Touch DriveTM Kit (LM2125SP)
- EGO POWER+ 15” String Trimmer with POWERLOADTM (ST1521S)
- EGO POWER+ 670 CFM Blower (LB6703)
Will staff help me load equipment in my vehicle?
Staff is not responsible for loading or unloading equipment. If you need help, please bring someone to assist you.
Can landlords who own property in Raleigh borrow tools to work on their rental properties?
We appreciate landlords maintaining and improving their rental properties, but the Raleigh Tool Share is for residents of Raleigh for home maintenance and improvement of their primary residence or the residence of a friend or family member who needs help maintaining their property. If a landlord’s primary residence is in Raleigh, they may borrow tools for that personal residence only.