40 QUESTIONS YOU MUST ASK BEFORE RENTING ART SPACE

Whether you are looking for a long-term studio space or renting a wall for an art crawl, these are the 40 questions you must ask before agreeing to rent the space. 

LEASE & CONTRACT 

1. Is there a contract or lease you need to sign to rent the wall or display space?

2. Is this a sublease?

3. Can you read a copy of the lease/contract/agreement?

4. What is the duration of the lease?

5. What is the cost of rent?

6. How do you pay rent? (By mail, in-person, online)

7. How do you prefer to rent to be paid? (cash, credit, check)

8. When is the rent due?

9. Do you get an invoice or receipt for the rent payment?

INSURANCE & SAFETY

1. Is there an insurance policy that covers the rented space?

2. Is your work or use of that space also covered by that policy?

3. Do you need your own additional insurance policy?

4. How safe is the rented space?

5. Have there been any problems in the past? (theft, leaks, damage, etc)

6. How is the space you are renting secured when you are not around?

7. Who has access to the space?

8. Does the building have security or cameras on-premise?

9. Is there shared Wifi and is it public or private?

SPACE & USAGE

1. Who do you contact for questions or issues related to the space you are renting?

2. Is there storage space you can use?

3. Are there additional charges for storage space?

4. What are the display space access hours?

5. What types of activities are allowed in the space? (making art, displaying art, teaching workshops, private events, gallery visits)

6. Is there electrical or data jack access available?

7. Are you also required to cover any utilities or additional bills?

BUILDING & UTILITY

1. Where is the closest loading dock?

2. Where is the parking?

3. Are there additional costs for parking?

4. What are the building access hours?

5. Where are the closest bathrooms?

SOCIAL & TRAFFIC

1. Are there social or additional group obligations when renting this display space? (Meetings, or group promotions)

2. What are the average traffic rates of guests and visitors?

3. What are the average sales of the other artists using the space?

DISPLAY

1. Are there any visual standards for the space or type of artwork they are looking to exhibit?

2. Is there any type of work not allowed on display in the space? (nudity, political, profanity)

3. What happens if there is an open studio event and you are not able to attend?

4. Are you able to alter the space you are renting? (paint walls, add shelves, change lighting, etc.)

FINAL QUESTIONS & WRAP UP

1. How many other people are looking at this space right now?

2. When do you need a decision if I choose to rent this space?

3. How should I get in contact with you when I decide?

As you continue to prepare and plan for your next creative space, check out THE DOUBLE COSTS OF ART STUDIO RENTAL to help you prepare for the financial cost of a studio space.