UNITARIAN MEETING HOUSE TERMS & CONDITIONS
Churchgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1RH Terms and Conditions of Hire
Effective from 15th April 2023
These Terms and Conditions of Hire apply to agreements signed after 15th April 2023. It is crucial to carefully review these terms as they contain important changes that may impact your decision regarding the suitability of this historic venue for your planned event. We strongly recommend visiting the premises before confirming the hire.
The Unitarian Meeting House is overseen by the House Committee of the Unitarian Trustees, an excepted charity.
Hiring is based on a Hiring Agreement between the House Committee and the Hirer, serving as a contract that holds the Hirer accountable for adhering to the conditions outlined herein.
Supervision: The Hirer, who signs the Hiring Agreement, assumes personal responsibility for supervising the premises, writing a risk assessment, fabric, contents, and the conduct of all individuals on-site during the hire period. This includes ensuring compliance with Public Safety Conditions as specified in this document.
Use of Premises:
The Hirer shall not use the premises for any purpose other than stated in the Hiring Agreement and must not sub-hire or use the premises unlawfully.
Special permission from Unitarian Trustees is required for religious or political meetings.
Gaming, Betting, and Lotteries: The Hirer is responsible for ensuring compliance with laws related to gaming, betting, and lotteries on the premises.
Noise and Nuisance: The Hirer must minimize noise during arrival and departure, especially at night, ensuring it does not cause inconvenience to neighbors.
Premises License (PLO5148): (a) Provision of alcohol is allowed with specific conditions detailed in the hire agreement. (b) Regulated entertainment is permitted with specified limitations and conditions.
Meeting House Performing Right and PPL Licenses: These licenses permit the performance of live and recorded music.
Fly Posting: The Hirer must not engage in unauthorized advertising and is responsible for any resulting legal consequences.
No Alterations and Attachments: No alterations, additions, fixtures, or attachments are allowed to the premises. Lightweight decorations are permissible if they pose no safety risk.
Sale of Goods: If selling goods, the Hirer must comply with Fair Trading Laws and display prices prominently.
Stored Equipment: The House Committee accepts no responsibility for stored equipment; the Hirer is liable for any loss or damage.
Public Safety:
Smoking is prohibited at all times.
Capacity must not exceed specified limits for fire safety.
The Gallery: Public access to the gallery is prohibited, and furniture must not be moved upstairs.
Fire Precautions: The Hirer is obligated to follow specified fire safety measures and report any incidents promptly.
Explosives and Flammable Substances: The use of fireworks, smoke machines, or pyrotechnics is strictly prohibited.
Health and Hygiene: The Hirer must comply with relevant food health and hygiene regulations if preparing, serving, or selling food.
Electrical Appliance Safety: Electrical equipment must be safe, in good working order, and have a valid PAT test certificate where applicable.
Unauthorised Items: The Hirer must not bring unauthorized items onto the premises, including additional furniture, cooking appliances, heating appliances, or fittings.
Indemnity, Insurance, and Damage: The Hirer is liable for damages and must have adequate insurance coverage. The House Committee has public liability insurance.
Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences: The Hirer must report accidents and equipment failures promptly.
Safety of Children: Activities for children under eight years must comply with The Children Act of 1989.
Safeguarding: Hirers are responsible for their safeguarding policies related to events involving children and adults with care and support needs.
Cancellations: Hirers are liable for all hire fees, but rebates may be considered with sufficient notice of cancellation of 1 Month. The House Committee reserves the right to cancel under certain circumstances.
Further Conditions and Information for the Hirer: Detailed instructions and guidelines regarding access, equipment usage, cleanliness, and contacts are provided for the Hirer's reference.
Contacts for Unitarian Meeting House Hire: Email: bsebookingsumh@gmail.com