Better Camera Rental – Terms and Conditions

Bern, Switzerland
(Applicable to all rentals of film and analog cameras and related equipment)

1. Scope of Application
1.1 These Terms of Service apply to all rental equipment (“Rental Goods”) provided by Better Camera Bern (“Lessor”) to the renter (“Lessee”).
1.2 Deviations from these Terms are valid only if agreed in writing by the Lessor.
1.3 Failure by the Lessor to enforce individual provisions does not constitute a waiver of rights.

2. Client Eligibility & New Client Onboarding
2.1 Rentals are available exclusively to established professional production companies, broadcasters, agencies, and recognised industry professionals.
2.2 Better Camera Bern may request company registration, references, or production details before approving a rental.
2.3 New clients must complete an account setup prior to their first rental. Once established, future rentals can be arranged efficiently.
2.4 No rental agreement is binding until the client account has been approved and the booking confirmed in writing.

3. Rental Agreement & Orders
3.1 A rental agreement is concluded only after the Lessee signs a rental confirmation or accepts a written confirmation by email.
3.2 All rental requests must be confirmed and dated. Professional clients should include company stamp and VAT number where applicable.
3.3 Rental dates stated in inquiries do not constitute a reservation until confirmed in writing.
3.4 Provisional reservations (options) are non-binding unless explicitly confirmed by the Lessor.
3.5 By accepting the rental goods, the Lessee confirms acceptance of these Terms of Service.

4. Rental Packages & Availability
4.1 Equipment is rented as complete kits or packages. Individual components may not be available separately.
4.2 All rentals are subject to availability.
4.3 The Lessor reserves the right to substitute equipment of equal technical value if necessary.

5. Rental Fees, Period & Cancellation
5.1 Rental prices are based on the current price list at the time of booking and exclude VAT unless stated otherwise.
5.2 A 100% deposit is mandatory to confirm a booking, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
5.3 Cancellation fees:
≥48 hours before rental: 50% of rental price
<48 hours before rental: 100% of rental price
If canceled equipment is re-rented, fees apply only to the period equipment could not be rented.
5.4 Rental period begins at the agreed pickup or dispatch time and ends upon return of the complete equipment.
5.5 Transport time counts as part of the rental period.
5.6 Late returns require written approval. Unauthorized late returns are charged at twice the daily rental rate per day.
5.7 Flat-rate pricing for extended rentals must be agreed in writing.

6. Mandatory Insurance
6.1 All equipment rented from Better Camera Bern must be fully insured by the client for the entire rental period.
6.2 Proof of valid production insurance covering the full replacement value of the rented equipment must be provided before any equipment is released.
6.3 Coverage must remain valid for the entire rental duration, including:
- preparation and testing days
- transport and storage
- shoot days
- de-rig and return transport
6.4 The client remains fully liable for any loss, theft, or damage not covered by insurance, regardless of fault.

7. Technical Competence & Mandatory Crew for Film Cameras
7.1 The Lessee must have sufficient knowledge and experience to operate all rented equipment safely and correctly.
7.2 All film cameras are rented exclusively with a professional assistant camera (AC) or film loader, either provided by or approved by Better Camera Bern. Film cameras will not be released without such personnel unless expressly agreed in writing.
7.3 The AC or film loader’s responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
- Camera preparation and testing
- Loading and unloading of film stock
- Supervision of proper handling and operation
- Monitoring the camera during use
- Ensuring correct packing and return condition
7.4 The client is responsible for covering all agreed crew costs, including fees, working hours, travel, accommodation, per diems, and related expenses, unless otherwise stated in the rental agreement.
7.5 The Lessor may refuse rental or suspend equipment use if competence or proper operation cannot be ensured.

8. Pickup, Return & Testing
8.1 Equipment must be collected and returned at the agreed times and locations.
8.2 The Lessee must test all equipment upon pickup. Any defects or missing items must be reported immediately. Equipment not reported defective is deemed accepted.
8.3 The Lessee is solely responsible for testing cameras, film workflows, accessories, and compatibility prior to shooting.

9. Damage, Loss & Liability
9.1 The Lessee is fully liable for all damage, loss, or theft, regardless of fault.
9.2 Repair or replacement costs plus associated costs (transport, customs, etc.) are charged to the Lessee.
9.3 Normal wear is excluded. Damage due to improper handling, moisture, sand, dust, heat, or unauthorized modification is not covered by rental fees.
9.4 Modification or disassembly of equipment without written consent is strictly prohibited.

10. Insurance Claims Procedure
10.1 In case of loss, theft, or damage:
- Notify the Lessor immediately by email and phone
- Provide police or insurance reports as needed
Keep all receipts, invoices, and evidence for insurance claims
10.2 Failure to notify the Lessor promptly may result in denial of coverage or forfeiture of deposit.

11. Limitation of Liability
11.1 The Lessor accepts no liability for:
- Production delays or failures
- Loss of footage or recordings
- Defective film results
- Compatibility or workflow issues
- Indirect or consequential damages
11.2 Equipment is checked prior to rental; use is entirely at the Lessee’s risk.
11.3 Liability is excluded except in cases of gross negligence or intent, to the extent permitted by law.

12. Technical Support
12.1 Basic technical guidance may be provided but on-set support is not included.
12.2 The Lessee confirms sufficient knowledge to operate all rented equipment.

13. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
13.1 These Terms are governed by Swiss law.
13.2 Place of jurisdiction is Bern, Switzerland.