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Initial contact is generally made by a location scout or
location manager, who is hired locally by the film company.
This person will be your contact during the duration of the
"shoot". Call Marla Touw, Alberta Film (403.297.6241) or the
Directors Guild of Canada (403-217-8672) to check the
credentials of the scout and/or the project.
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Agree upon the exact number of days required for the shoot
plus preparation and wrap time. (A shooting day is
approximately 14 hours long.)
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Arrange for a walk-through with the location manager to
determine exact interiors and exteriors desired for filming;
where equipment and vehicles will need to be positioned or
parked; any "off-limits" areas specified by the owner; and any
areas such as roof, trees, fences, windows, which may need to
be used or altered during filming.
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Decide which of your (the owners) personal property may be
used for filming, how and where to store items not used, and
who will be responsible for packing and moving.
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Determine who will be allowed on "set" during period of use.
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Set rules regarding: smoking, use of washrooms, laundry,
water, electricity, kitchen, protective floor coverings,
trash, etc.
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Establish guidelines for production company's use of owner's
phone. (and payment)
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Location manager must inform the owner where cast and crew
will be eating their meals.
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Decide how the owner will be accommodated during filming and
any living expenses that may be required.
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Set vehicle parking for cast and crew.
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Find out the nature of the project and how your location will
be used. Will there be special effects like smoke, fire,
gunshots?
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Establish clean-up requirements, who is responsible and when
it is to be completed (within 24-48 hours), and arrange with
location manager for final "walk-through" for the owners
approval.
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Location fees are negotiable. The owner should feel
comfortable with the amount agreed upon, and a payment
schedule should be established prior to any filming.
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Owner should have a written agreement detailing specifics and
may wish to add the following: "The applicant (film company)
agrees to indemnify owner and to be solely and absolutely
liable upon any and all claims, suits and judgments against
the owner and/or applicant for personal injuries and property
damages arising out of or occurring during the activities of
the applicant, his (its) employees or otherwise. This
agreement may be revoked at any time." This contract should be
signed by a principal or agent of the production company.
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Owner must get a certificate of insurance including a hold
harmless clause for protection in case of any injuries on the
property. All production companies should carry insurance
policies that cover third-party rentals for property damage
and liability. A photocopy of the insurance certificate should
be given to the owner before any crew comes on the property.
