What is a Location Release Form Review?
A location release form is a legal document between a property owner and a filmmaker or production team who requires access to their property for a specific use, such as filming footage.
It has to be clear and detailed so that both parties understand their rights and they can avoid getting tangled up in costly legal disputes.
Read the rest of this article to explore what key terms are found in a location release form, how to review it, and when to consult a lawyer for assistance with the review process.
What Key Terms Should You Review in a Location Release Form?
A location release form should contain the following core information that you must review for clarity:
- Parties. Both parties must be identified. Check that their full legal names and contact details are included.
- Property. A clear description of the property being accessed must be provided, with its exact address.
- Date and time. Specify the schedule date and timeline for filming, which must include setup and teardown times.
- Permission. Any rules for using the space must be clearly outlined, such as what equipment can be used.
- Grant of license. This specifies the production team or photographer’s rights to use the property, such as a non-exclusive and limited license.
- Purpose. Describe the exact purpose for using the property, such as filming or audio recording for a specific production that must be named.
- Payment terms. Check what the compensation will be for using the property, as well as what payment methods are approved.
- Liability and indemnification. Verify that risks are balanced between parties, instead of everything being placed on the property owner.
What are Additional Tips for Reviewing a Location Release Form?
Now that you’ve checked the above key terms, there are additional tips to consider during the review process.
Check the Location’s Permitted Areas
When reviewing the property description in the location release, you should ensure that the document states all the areas of the property which can be used as well as any restricted areas to prevent disputes.
Look for Insurance Requirements
The production team should carry sufficient insurance coverage. It’s common for the property owner to be listed as insured for the period of the shoot or production.
Verify Ownership
For film footage or other content being created, you should check that the agreement states who owns it and for what use. To protect the production team using the property, they might want to mention that they’re not obliged to use the content, as this serves to protect their interests.
Confirm Remedies
To protect the property owner, the location release should include remedies for how to navigate a situation in which the production team violates the agreement. Check that these are reasonable, such as by not prohibiting the production team from going ahead with their project.
Consider Property Cleanup
To ensure the property is left in the same condition that it was in before the production, there should be information for how it can be cleaned up. Mention what cleanup entails, such as if a crew will come in to clean everything and the costs involved.
Do You Need a Legal Review of a Location Release Form?
Although you don’t always need to hire a lawyer to review your location release form, especially if it’s clear and easy to understand, it’s advisable if you’re dealing with a confusing document that could put you at risk.
That said, it’s generally worth hiring a lawyer because location release forms need to be compliant with all laws and regulations to prevent legal disputes.
A lawyer can help you during the review process by:
- Keeping the document legally valid and sound, such as by checking all state laws. These vary when it comes to location release forms.
- Checking that all terms in the document are clear and specific, such as regarding the rights being granted.
- Considering which party takes responsibility for things that could go wrong, such as property damage, to protect your interests.
- Explaining the release scope so that it’s clear what parties are being released from what liability.
- Identifying any missing or unfavorable terms in the document. They can remove or add information, should this be required.
- Negotiating with the other party for more favorable terms.
- Ensuring that the document is executed properly, such as by including both parties’ signatures.
Where to Find a Lawyer for a Location Release Form Review
If you need to hire a lawyer to review your location release form, you’ll easily find one who’s experienced and reputable on an online legal platform, which gives you access to professional lawyers in your region.
As one of the largest online legal marketplaces, ContractsCounsel enables you to connect with a curated network of lawyers who have contract drafting and review experience.
To start the process of asking a lawyer on the platform to review your location release, here are the steps to follow:
- Go to the ContractsCounsel marketplace.
- Post your project, which is free to do.
- Mention some details about the project to help you match with the most suitable lawyers, such as why you require a location release form.
- Wait for bids. Lawyers on the platform will send you bids on the project. This prevents you from having to find a lawyer in your personal networks.
- Review the lawyers’ information. ContractsCounsel provides extensive information about its lawyers on their profiles, such as the lawyers' location, expertise, years of experience, and client ratings for previously completed projects.
- Select a lawyer and hire them to review your location release form for a flat fee. Alternatively, you can hire a lawyer to draft a location release form from scratch.
