Terms of service

Maestro Catering Equipment Hire

Terms & Conditions of Hire

1. Definitions

In these Terms & Conditions:

“Supplier”, “we”, “us” or “our” means Maestro Catering Equipment Hire.

“Hirer”, “you” or “your” means the person, business or organisation hiring equipment from us and the person named on the booking.

“Equipment” means all catering equipment, furniture, accessories, appliances, utensils and other goods supplied by us under the booking.

“Booking” means the agreement between the Supplier and Hirer for the hire of Equipment.

“Hire Period” means the period beginning when the Equipment is delivered to or collected by the Hirer and ending when the Equipment is collected by us or returned to our premises.

“Invoice” means the invoice or written quotation issued by us setting out the Equipment, hire charges, delivery or collection charges and any other agreed charges.

2. Booking & Contract Formation

  1. All bookings are subject to these Terms & Conditions.
  1. A Booking is not confirmed until we have received the required booking deposit and have provided written confirmation of the Booking.
  1. Verbal discussions, quotations or provisional reservations do not constitute a confirmed Booking unless confirmed by us in writing.
  1. Written confirmation may be provided by email, quotation, invoice or other written communication.
  1. Once written confirmation has been received, you are responsible for checking all details, including dates, times, equipment, quantities, delivery address and charges.
  1. Any errors or amendments must be reported to us immediately. We cannot guarantee that amendments can be accommodated once a Booking has been confirmed.
  1. The Hirer must provide accurate and complete information when making a Booking.
  1. We reserve the right to decline or refuse any Booking at our discretion.

3. Prices, VAT & Payment

  1. All prices quoted by us are exclusive of VAT unless expressly stated otherwise.
  1. Delivery, collection, cleaning, installation, additional labour and other charges may apply where applicable and will be detailed on the quotation or invoice.
  1. The Hirer is responsible for payment of all charges relating to the Booking.
  1. Payment must be made in accordance with the payment terms stated on the quotation or invoice.
  1. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the following payment structure applies:

a. Booking Deposit: 25% of the hire charges is payable to secure the Booking.

b. Returnable Deposit: An additional 25% of the hire charges is payable as a refundable deposit against breakages, damage, loss, theft and additional cleaning. This is charged in addition to the hire charges.

c. Final Balance: The remaining 75% of the hire charges must be paid in full at least 48 hours before the agreed delivery or collection date.

  1. The Equipment will not normally be delivered or released for collection until all required payments have been received.
  1. If the final balance has not been received by the required deadline, we reserve the right to cancel the Booking and retain any amounts payable under the cancellation provisions of these Terms & Conditions.
  1. Failure to receive an invoice does not remove the Hirer's responsibility to make payment where the payment deadline has been communicated or agreed.
  1. We reserve the right to charge reasonable costs incurred in recovering overdue payments.

4. Returnable Deposit

  1. The returnable deposit is separate from the booking deposit and is equal to 25% of the hire charges, unless otherwise agreed in writing. It is charged in addition to the hire charges.
  1. The returnable deposit is held as security against:
  • damage;
  • breakages;
  • loss;
  • theft;
  • missing items;
  • misuse;
  • unauthorised use;
  • excessive or specialist cleaning;
  • failure to return Equipment;
  • late return;
  • other costs reasonably incurred as a result of the Hirer's breach of these Terms & Conditions.
  1. The returnable deposit will be refunded following return and inspection of the Equipment at our premises.
  1. We reserve the right to inspect Equipment after it has been returned to our warehouse. Damage or issues that are not reasonably apparent at the point of collection may therefore be identified during inspection.
  1. Where charges are identified, we may deduct the applicable amount from the returnable deposit.
  1. If the cost of damage, loss, cleaning or other charges exceeds the returnable deposit, the Hirer remains responsible for paying the balance.
  1. Refunds will normally be processed following completion of our inspection and within a reasonable period.
  1. The returnable deposit does not limit the Hirer's liability for damage, loss, theft or other costs.

5. Cancellation

  1. Cancellations must be made in writing.
  1. The applicable cancellation charge will be calculated by reference to the date we receive written notice of cancellation and the agreed start date of the Hire Period.
  1. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the following cancellation charges apply:
  • More than 4 weeks before the Hire Period: booking deposit refunded.
  • 4 weeks to more than 2 weeks before the Hire Period: booking deposit retained.
  • Within 2 weeks of the Hire Period: 50% of the total invoice value payable.
  • Within 1 week of the Hire Period: 100% of the total invoice value payable.
  1. Where the full invoice value is payable following cancellation, any outstanding balance will remain due.
  1. The returnable deposit will be refunded following cancellation where no other amounts are owed to us.
  1. Cancellation charges reflect the costs and potential loss of availability associated with reserving Equipment for a Booking and may apply regardless of whether the Hirer has collected or received the Equipment.
  1. We reserve the right to apply different cancellation terms where these have been specifically agreed in writing before the Booking.

6. Hire Period

  1. The standard Hire Period is 3 days, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
  1. The Hire Period begins when the Equipment is delivered to the Hirer or collected by the Hirer.
  1. The Hire Period ends when the Equipment has been collected by us or returned to our premises.
  1. Equipment must not be retained beyond the agreed Hire Period without our prior written agreement.
  1. Additional hire charges may apply where Equipment is retained beyond the agreed Hire Period.
  1. We reserve the right to charge for any losses reasonably incurred where Equipment is not returned on time and cannot therefore be supplied to another customer.

7. Delivery

  1. Delivery charges may apply and will be confirmed at the time of Booking.
  1. Free collection from and return to our warehouse may be available.
  1. Where delivery is charged by mileage, our applicable mileage rate will be confirmed at the time of Booking.
  1. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, deliveries are to ground-floor level only.
  1. The Hirer must ensure that there is suitable, safe and unobstructed access to the delivery location.
  1. The Hirer must inform us before delivery of any circumstances that could affect delivery, including:
  • stairs;
  • lifts;
  • narrow entrances;
  • restricted access;
  • long carrying distances;
  • uneven ground;
  • gravel or unsuitable surfaces;
  • parking restrictions;
  • loading restrictions;
  • pedestrianised areas;
  • height or width restrictions;
  • difficult access;
  • time restrictions;
  • other site-specific requirements.
  1. Failure to disclose relevant access or delivery restrictions may result in additional charges or the delivery being refused where it cannot safely be completed.
  1. We reserve the right to refuse, delay or amend a delivery where, in our reasonable opinion, conditions are unsafe or unsuitable.
  1. Health and safety will always take priority over delivery requirements.
  1. Where delivery cannot be completed because of circumstances caused by the Hirer, including lack of access, unsafe conditions, nobody being available to receive the Equipment or incorrect information, additional delivery or waiting charges may apply.
  1. A delivery is not considered unsuccessful or our responsibility where we have arrived at the agreed location but cannot reasonably complete the delivery due to circumstances outside our control or caused by the Hirer.

8. Collection & Return

  1. The Hirer must ensure that all Equipment is ready and available for collection at the agreed time.
  1. Unless otherwise agreed, all Equipment must be located in one accessible collection area.
  1. Equipment must be returned in the condition required under these Terms & Conditions.
  1. Equipment must be reasonably clean before collection or return.
  1. We offer additional cleaning services where required. These should be arranged in advance wherever possible.
  1. Additional cleaning charges may be deducted from the returnable deposit where Equipment requires cleaning beyond normal reasonable cleaning.
  1. If Equipment is not ready for collection at the agreed time, additional collection, waiting, transport or hire charges may apply.
  1. Where the Hirer returns Equipment directly to our warehouse, it must be returned within the agreed Hire Period and during the agreed opening/return times.
  1. Collection or return does not constitute acceptance that the Equipment is free from damage. Equipment remains subject to inspection at our warehouse.

9. Hirer's Responsibility for Equipment

  1. The Equipment remains the property of Maestro Catering Equipment Hire at all times.
  1. The Hirer is responsible for the Equipment from the moment it is delivered to or collected by the Hirer until it has been returned to us or collected by us.
  1. The Hirer must take all reasonable care of the Equipment throughout the Hire Period.
  1. The Hirer is responsible for the safekeeping of the Equipment and must take reasonable precautions to protect it from:
  • theft;
  • loss;
  • vandalism;
  • accidental damage;
  • weather;
  • water damage;
  • fire;
  • misuse;
  • unauthorised use;
  • improper storage;
  • damage by guests, employees, contractors or third parties.
  1. The Hirer must not sell, lend, sub-hire, transfer, modify, alter, repair or otherwise dispose of the Equipment without our prior written permission.
  1. The Hirer must not remove Equipment from the agreed location without our prior written consent.
  1. The Hirer must notify us immediately if Equipment is lost, stolen, damaged or becomes unsafe to use.
  1. In the event of theft, the Hirer should report the theft to the relevant authorities and provide us with the relevant reference details.

10. Use of Equipment

  1. Equipment must only be used for its intended purpose and in accordance with any instructions provided by us or the manufacturer.
  1. The Hirer is responsible for ensuring that Equipment is operated by competent and appropriately trained persons where required.
  1. The Hirer must not misuse or overload Equipment.
  1. The Hirer must not make modifications or alterations to Equipment.
  1. The Hirer must not attempt repairs unless expressly authorised by us.
  1. Electrical Equipment must only be used with an appropriate and safe power supply.
  1. Where Equipment requires specialist installation, connection or operation, the Hirer must notify us before the Booking.
  1. We may provide instructions relating to the safe use of Equipment. These instructions must be followed.
  1. We reserve the right to withdraw Equipment from use where we reasonably believe it is being used unsafely or contrary to these Terms & Conditions.

11. Damage, Breakages, Loss & Theft

  1. The Hirer is responsible for any damage, breakage, loss or theft occurring during the Hire Period, except where caused by fair wear and tear or an issue for which we are legally responsible.
  1. Damage includes, but is not limited to, physical damage, staining, burns, dents, scratches, broken components, missing parts and damage caused by improper use.
  1. Lost or stolen Equipment will be charged at the reasonable replacement cost or other reasonable cost incurred by us.
  1. Damaged Equipment may be charged at the reasonable cost of repair or replacement, depending on the circumstances.
  1. Where Equipment cannot be repaired or is no longer suitable for hire as a result of damage, we may charge the reasonable replacement cost.
  1. The Hirer remains responsible for Equipment damaged by guests, employees, contractors, event attendees or any other person while the Equipment is under the Hirer's responsibility.
  1. Any charges may be deducted from the returnable deposit. Where the charges exceed the deposit, the remaining balance will be invoiced to the Hirer.
  1. Equipment that is believed to be lost but is subsequently returned may be subject to reasonable charges incurred by us as a result of the loss, including replacement, administration or additional hire costs.

12. Cleaning

  1. Equipment must be returned in a reasonably clean condition.
  1. The Hirer is responsible for removing food, grease, liquid, debris and other material from the Equipment before collection or return where reasonably possible.
  1. Additional cleaning charges may apply where Equipment requires cleaning beyond what would reasonably be expected following normal use.
  1. Cleaning charges may be deducted from the returnable deposit.
  1. Specialist cleaning, stain removal or restoration may be charged at the reasonable cost incurred.
  1. We may provide a cleaning service where agreed in advance.

13. Equipment Faults & Breakdowns

  1. All Equipment is supplied in a condition reasonably suitable for its intended purpose.
  1. The Hirer must notify us immediately if Equipment develops a fault or becomes unsafe.
  1. The Hirer must stop using Equipment where continued use could cause damage, injury or further deterioration.
  1. The Hirer must not attempt to repair Equipment without our prior authorisation.
  1. Where reasonably possible, we will seek to repair or replace faulty Equipment.
  1. Where Equipment becomes unavailable due to a fault that is not caused by the Hirer, our liability will, to the extent permitted by law, be limited to an appropriate remedy relating to the affected Equipment or hire charge.
  1. We will not be responsible for faults caused by misuse, improper installation, unsuitable power supplies, negligence, unauthorised repairs, alterations or other actions of the Hirer or a third party.

14. Ownership

  1. All Equipment remains the sole property of Maestro Catering Equipment Hire.
  1. Nothing in the Booking transfers ownership of the Equipment to the Hirer.
  1. The Hirer must not sell, pledge, charge, dispose of or otherwise attempt to create any rights over the Equipment.
  1. The Hirer must ensure that Equipment remains identifiable as our property throughout the Hire Period.

15. Insurance

  1. The Hirer is responsible for arranging appropriate insurance cover for the Equipment during the Hire Period where appropriate.
  1. We strongly recommend that the Hirer has suitable cover for accidental damage, loss, theft and other risks associated with the Equipment.
  1. Where we specifically require evidence of insurance for a particular Booking, the Hirer must provide this before the Equipment is released.
  1. The existence of insurance does not remove the Hirer's responsibilities under these Terms & Conditions.

16. Liability

  1. Nothing in these Terms & Conditions excludes or limits any liability which cannot legally be excluded or limited under applicable law.
  1. Subject to clause 16.1, we will not be liable for loss or damage arising from the Hirer's misuse, negligence, unauthorised use, alteration or improper operation of the Equipment.
  1. We will not be responsible for indirect or consequential losses, loss of profit, loss of business, loss of revenue, loss of opportunity or other indirect economic losses, except where such liability cannot legally be excluded.
  1. We will not be liable for delays or failure to perform our obligations where caused by circumstances outside our reasonable control.
  1. Nothing in these Terms & Conditions affects any rights or remedies available to consumers under applicable law.
  1. The Hirer is responsible for ensuring that the Equipment is used safely and appropriately throughout the Hire Period.
  1. To the extent permitted by law, the Hirer accepts responsibility for losses, costs or claims arising from the Hirer's breach of these Terms & Conditions or misuse of the Equipment.

17. Indemnity

  1. To the extent permitted by law, the Hirer agrees to reimburse us for reasonable losses, costs, expenses or claims arising directly from:
  • the Hirer's breach of these Terms & Conditions;
  • misuse of the Equipment;
  • unauthorised use of the Equipment;
  • failure to return Equipment;
  • damage or loss caused by the Hirer or persons under the Hirer's responsibility;
  • failure to comply with reasonable safety instructions.
  1. This clause does not apply to the extent that any loss or claim has been caused by our own negligence, breach of contract or other liability which cannot legally be transferred to the Hirer.

18. Force Majeure

  1. We will not be liable for delay, cancellation or failure to perform our obligations where this is caused by circumstances beyond our reasonable control.
  1. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to:
  • extreme weather;
  • flooding;
  • fire;
  • accident;
  • equipment failure beyond our reasonable control;
  • transport disruption;
  • road closures;
  • industrial action;
  • government action;
  • power failure;
  • supply chain disruption;
  • serious illness;
  • civil emergency;
  • acts of terrorism;
  • war;
  • natural disaster;
  • other events beyond our reasonable control.
  1. Where such circumstances arise, we will take reasonable steps to minimise the impact on the Hirer.

19. Supplier's Right to Cancel or Refuse Hire

  1. We reserve the right to cancel or refuse a Booking where:
  • payment has not been received;
  • the Hirer has provided materially inaccurate information;
  • the Equipment is unavailable due to circumstances outside our reasonable control;
  • the proposed use of the Equipment is unsafe or inappropriate;
  • delivery conditions are unsafe;
  • the Hirer is in breach of these Terms & Conditions;
  • we reasonably believe that the Equipment may be damaged, misused or placed at unreasonable risk.
  1. Where we cancel a Booking for reasons within our control and not because of a breach by the Hirer, we will provide an appropriate refund of amounts paid for the affected hire, subject to applicable law.
  1. We will not be responsible for losses beyond the applicable refund where such losses cannot legally be recovered from us.

20. Hirer's Failure to Comply

  1. If the Hirer breaches these Terms & Conditions, we may require the Hirer to stop using the Equipment and/or arrange its immediate return.
  1. We may terminate the Hire Period where continued hire would place the Equipment, our staff or other persons at unreasonable risk.
  1. The Hirer remains responsible for all applicable charges, including reasonable costs associated with recovering Equipment.
  1. Termination of the Hire Period does not affect any rights or amounts already accrued.

21. Late Return

  1. Equipment must be returned or made available for collection at the agreed time.
  1. Where Equipment is returned late without our prior agreement, additional hire charges may apply.
  1. Where late return prevents us from fulfilling another customer's Booking, the Hirer may also be responsible for reasonable losses and costs incurred as a result, to the extent permitted by law.
  1. We reserve the right to recover Equipment where it has not been returned within the agreed period.

22. Condition of Equipment

  1. The Hirer should inspect the Equipment upon delivery or collection.
  1. Any shortages, visible damage or incorrect items must be reported to us immediately and, where possible, before the Equipment is used.
  1. Once the Hire Period has commenced, claims relating to shortages or visible damage may not be accepted where the Hirer has failed to notify us promptly.
  1. This does not affect liability for faults or defects which could not reasonably have been identified upon delivery or collection.
  1. We will inspect returned Equipment at our warehouse where necessary.

23. Complaints & Disputes

  1. Any complaint should be raised with us as soon as reasonably possible.
  1. The Hirer should provide sufficient information and evidence to allow us to investigate the complaint.
  1. We will seek to resolve genuine complaints reasonably and promptly.
  1. Nothing in this clause limits any statutory rights available to the Hirer.

24. Changes to These Terms

  1. We may update these Terms & Conditions from time to time.
  1. The Terms & Conditions applying to a Booking will normally be those provided to or accepted by the Hirer at the time the Booking is confirmed.
  1. Any specific variation to these Terms & Conditions must be agreed in writing.

25. Severability

  1. If any provision of these Terms & Conditions is found to be invalid, unlawful or unenforceable, that provision will be removed or limited to the minimum extent necessary.
  1. The remaining provisions will continue to apply.

26. No Waiver

  1. If we do not immediately enforce any provision of these Terms & Conditions, this does not mean that we waive our right to enforce that provision later.

27. Entire Agreement

  1. These Terms & Conditions, together with the applicable quotation, booking confirmation and invoice, form the agreement between the Supplier and Hirer relating to the Booking.
  1. In the event of any conflict between these Terms & Conditions and a specific written agreement signed or expressly agreed by both parties, the specific written agreement will take precedence to the extent of the conflict.

28. Governing Law

  1. These Terms & Conditions and any dispute or claim arising from them shall be governed by the laws of England and Wales.
  1. The courts of England and Wales shall have jurisdiction, subject to any mandatory legal rights applicable to consumers.

29. Acceptance

By paying the booking deposit, confirming the Booking, accepting delivery or collecting the Equipment, the Hirer acknowledges that they have had the opportunity to read and understand these Terms & Conditions and agrees to be bound by them.

Maestro Catering Equipment Hire

These Terms & Conditions should be read alongside the Hirer's quotation, booking confirmation and invoice.