Information for prospective location providers in the ACT and Capital Region
Prospective location providers in the ACT and Capital Region are reminded to consider the impact on their property of any filming activity, including whether the filmmaker or production company has appropriate insurance coverage. Some general points to consider might include:
§ Consider the nature (eg feature, short film, commercial, TV series) and size of the production, including:
§ Enquire as to whether the filmmaker/production company has appropriate insurance in place (obtain a copy of the policy).
§ Ask whether any special effects are to be used (eg prop guns, weapons, fire effects – ScreenACT can put you in touch with the appropriate authority if applicable) – consider building fire regulations and safety procedures.
§ You may wish to request a “walk through” with crew members at your location to review the potential impact of the filming activity, including how the shoot may impact neighbouring residents/properties.
§ In setting a fee for filming activity, consider the type of production and varying budgets of filmmakers! For example, an independent feature film is likely to have a very low budget, particularly when compared to a television series, commercial or major feature. A starting point may be the revenue you might otherwise forego by closing your location for a film shoot (eg where the location is generally let out for other purposes). You may also want to consider incidental charges, such as electricity, water or phone usage.
§ Establishing rules or guidelines in writing as part of your location agreement before the shoot may be useful to ensure both parties have the same understanding upfront.
§ Ensure that the filmmaker/production company will be responsible for cleanup and removal of any rubbish on completion of the shoot and will return the location to its original condition. Conduct an inspection of your property immediately on conclusion of the shoot with a representative of the production company/ filmmaker.
The points listed above are general guidelines for reference purposes only. ScreenACT makes no warranty or guarantee as to the completeness of these guidelines and we recommend you obtain independent legal advice in relation to any agreements entered into with individuals or production companies in connection with filming activity on your property.
§ Consider the nature (eg feature, short film, commercial, TV series) and size of the production, including:
- the number of individuals in the cast and crew
- any vehicles to be used on/parked outside your property
- Number of days required for the shoot, including preparation and wrap up and shoot hours for each day (get a timetable upfront)
§ Enquire as to whether the filmmaker/production company has appropriate insurance in place (obtain a copy of the policy).
§ Ask whether any special effects are to be used (eg prop guns, weapons, fire effects – ScreenACT can put you in touch with the appropriate authority if applicable) – consider building fire regulations and safety procedures.
§ You may wish to request a “walk through” with crew members at your location to review the potential impact of the filming activity, including how the shoot may impact neighbouring residents/properties.
§ In setting a fee for filming activity, consider the type of production and varying budgets of filmmakers! For example, an independent feature film is likely to have a very low budget, particularly when compared to a television series, commercial or major feature. A starting point may be the revenue you might otherwise forego by closing your location for a film shoot (eg where the location is generally let out for other purposes). You may also want to consider incidental charges, such as electricity, water or phone usage.
§ Establishing rules or guidelines in writing as part of your location agreement before the shoot may be useful to ensure both parties have the same understanding upfront.
§ Ensure that the filmmaker/production company will be responsible for cleanup and removal of any rubbish on completion of the shoot and will return the location to its original condition. Conduct an inspection of your property immediately on conclusion of the shoot with a representative of the production company/ filmmaker.
The points listed above are general guidelines for reference purposes only. ScreenACT makes no warranty or guarantee as to the completeness of these guidelines and we recommend you obtain independent legal advice in relation to any agreements entered into with individuals or production companies in connection with filming activity on your property.