1170
6 min 26 sec

Q&A: How can I collect a security deposit from my customers?

Beware the Ides of March! Today’s caller makes giant lawn games, and wants to rent them out for events—but he has a concern about collecting a security deposit.
Q&A

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What It's About

A listener wants to know the best way to protect his rental assets.

Notes from Chris

Episode 1170
Beware the Ides of March!

What if you are renting rather than selling an expensive item? This could be a good fit if the items in question are the kinds of things that most people need only once or occasionally—such as an outdoor wedding tent, or even a tuxedo for a wedding, or perhaps something like pricey camera gear that a photographer needs for a particular shoot?

Today’s caller makes giant lawn games, and instead of selling them, wants to rent them out for events—but he has a concern about collecting a security deposit.

I’m learning along with you, and I was surprised to discover that this issue is not as simple as I would have assumed.

"I do woodworking, make giant lawn games, in a higher quality than most. I noticed I spent a lot of time repeating the same work for marginal profit. Some games I could barely sell for the cost of materials. I decided I want to rent them out for events such as weddings and company picnics.

My question is house do I ensure I get my items back at the end of the rental period? I have come up with a rental agreement but I'm afraid that isn't enough. I rent out my games at cost of my materials so in the event I do lose them, I did recoup my material cost, but not my time. PayPal, Square don't do hold deposits, and I don't see anyone putting down a substantial cash deposit. If I make the deposit smaller, the client could run off, and all I have left is a small deposit, so that won't work."

Listen to today's episode to learn more...

 
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Yours in the revolution,

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