Do you charge for set up and break down time? I do and a lot of clients are suprised by this. Just want to see what is the norm.
If the charge is for time renting your space, then that time includes and setup or breakdown that they require. They may act surprise, but I really think that is just a tactic to get free time in your space. I’ve had several rentals where the renter chose the shortest rental duration, in my case two hours, only to ask if they can come to the studio a half hour early to setup. My replay is always, “if the time is available, you’re welcome to rent and extra half hour”, at which point I will tell them that they need to be done and breakdown at their rental end time.
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Thank you Michael! I appreciate the feedback. I agree 100% that if they are in the space they should be charged.
3 years running now and I’ve always told folks that setup and break down needs to be included within the rental window.
Unfortunately there are some space owners that don’t know the business and allow for “free” time. You can use this as you’re crafting your offer.
I was able to raise my rates and not lose bookings by presenting the offer differently in separate packages. Everything still needs to be included within the rental window, however, “free” setup and breakdown are included in the higher rate packages. Thought it wouldn’t work but it works.
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Thank you Willis for the input. I like the idea of packages. Much appreciated!
I rent my space(s) and I am also a film crew so I am on both sides of this equation. Crews ABSOLUTELY know that set-up and breakdown need to be included in the rental window. Anyone that plays dumb about that is being cheeky and trying to get free time (hoping you don’t know better). If they legit don’t know that is the standard, then they are not professional and don’t feel bad about enforcing that rule.
Typically it is the indie movie crews you need to watch out for… they never have money and will always try to get free time. Those are the ones you need to be very upfront with about the rental in and out time.
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Thank you for the response Chris. I do have people that seem shocked when I tell them, but I also have it in my rules.