Venue Hire policy

Maximise building use without increasing risk

Clear terms and conditions for managing bookings, users and income from your church premises. Fully updated for October 2026.

Updated for October 2026

• Liability wording that stands up under consumer law (the Consumer Rights Act 2015)

• Hirer age requirements that avoid age discrimination risks

• The specific Equality Act provision that lets churches restrict lettings in line with their faith

• Martyn's Law: what hirers must follow at premises that can hold 200 or more people

• New DBS rules for hirers running children's activities, plus music licensing, alcohol and food registration

Key Features

• Hire terms and conditions

• Pricing and cancellation structure

• Legal considerations (Equality Act, licensing, insurance)

• Safeguarding requirements for hirers

• Behaviour and usage expectations

• Booking application form

Why It Matters

Venue hire creates income, but it needs clear boundaries and structure. Many church hire agreements include clauses that couldn't be enforced if something went wrong, which leaves trustees exposed just when they need protection.

Format

Editable Word document | Instant download