Contracts
- What should be included in a venue rental contract?
A venue rental contract should cover dates, times, fees, payment schedule, cancellation policy, liability, insurance, damages, and rules. Include setup/cleanup times, vendor requirements, and a force majeure clause. Both parties should sign. - How do I write a cancellation policy?
Write a cancellation policy that states deadlines, refund tiers, and what happens if the venue cancels. Be clear and fair. Common tiers: full refund if cancelled 60+ days out, partial refund 30–60 days, no refund under 30 days. Include force majeure. - Can I change a contract after it's signed?
Yes, but only if both parties agree to the change in writing. Unilateral changes are generally not enforceable unless the original contract allows them. - What is a force majeure clause?
A force majeure clause excuses parties from performing contract obligations when unforeseen events beyond their control—like natural disasters or pandemics—make performance impossible or impracticable. - Should I require liability insurance from clients?
Yes, it's standard practice for venues to require clients to carry liability insurance. It protects you if a guest is injured or property is damaged during their event. - How do I handle contract breaches?
First, review the contract to confirm a breach occurred. Then notify the breaching party in writing, document everything, and try to resolve it informally. If that fails, you may need legal action.