We require a security deposit equal to the amount charged for the rental, which varies with the number of people, and area to be used ($100-$1500). They are also required to show that they have liability insurance. We do not allow use of the inside of the historic house museum, only on the grounds, in a tent, or in a more modern all purpose building. We have not had any incidents that required keeping the security deposit yet, but photos are supposed to be taken by the person checking the renter out at the end of the rental to document any damage.

The historic house museum had a (thankfully minor) incident at one of our private bookings where the museum's policies were not followed. However, it has awoken the powers that be to the fact that we should probably be requiring a security deposit to be used both for any potential damage or for not following our usage policies (even if no damage occurred).

I was asked to find out from other museums (preferably historic house museums, but really any museum will work):

1. Do you require a security deposit for private events? If so, how much? How did you arrive at this figure?

2. Can you share your policies that outline under what circumstances a security deposit would be kept?

3. Have you ever had to keep a security deposit? If so, what procedures were followed (documenting damage, etc.)?

4. Is there anything else we should be considering?

Thanks in advance!

Amy

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