You Are Here: Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I book equipment with you?

There are several ways to make a general enquiry; by telephone – 01392 36266, by fax – 01392 362677, or use our general enquiry form http://www.southwesteventhire.co.uk/southwesteventhire.com-online-enquiry.php 

What are my payment methods?

We ask for a deposit payment of 30% when you confirm your order.  Full payment is expected 7 days before your event unless you have an agreed credit account set up with us.Payment can be made by cheque, credit card (we do not accept American Express) or cash (if paying by cheque please ensure you allow enough days for the funds to clear your account). 

Why do I need to pay a deposit?

Your deposit payment is required to secure your booking and will be taken off your final payment. 

How do I get a credit account?

Your first order payment terms will be as above in ‘What are my payment terms’.  Following your first order we will send you and account application form requesting your full company details and references.  As soon as we have received details from your referees we will inform you by writing confirming your account details and credit limit.  

When should I book my event with you?

Please book your event as early as possible, we are especially busy during the summer and Christmas periods.   

What happens if I have to change my booking?

We appreciate that during the planning of any event details are always changing, so long as you keep us fully informed we will be able to accommodate most variations. 

Is there a charge for delivery/collection?

We have standard delivery and collection charges Monday to Friday, based on the distance you are from our warehouse in Exeter.  These will be quoted when you place you order.  We have a ‘Table of delivery and collection charges’ available.Specific and ‘out of hours’ deliveries and collections can be arranged, please contact us for rates. 

What can I expect with your delivery and collection service?

All our equipment will be delivered clean and ready for use.  All our crockery, cutlery and glassware will arrive in boxes and crates and we ask that you ensure it is ready for collection in the correct boxes and crates.  Although all equipment is checked before leaving our warehouse to ensure there are no damaged items and nothing is missing we strongly suggest that you are available on site for the delivery which the driver will go through.  Any shortages/damages identified once you have endorsed the delivery note will be chargeable.  We ask that you arrange a suitable, easy to access delivery/collection site on ground floor level.  If you have any specific delivery/set-up requirements please ask us. We will make every effort to deliver and collect at the times requested by the hirer, however there are times, especially during our busier periods, that we cannot guarantee collection immediately after use from every venue/site at the same time.  It is your responsibility to ensure that the equipment is kept dry and in a secure place until collected.  

I have never organized an event before, can you help me?

We have a wealth of experience I the design, planning and set up of an event.  We are only too happy to help to guide you through the different stages of your event.  We also have our ‘How to organize an event’ and ‘How to plan your wedding’  http://www.southwesteventhire.co.uk/wedding-hire-guide/guides which contain check lists and general information.   

What is my responsibility for equipment return?

We will ensure that all our catering equipment and furniture is delivered clean and ready for use. On collection, tables and chairs should be knocked down and clean of mud, spilt food etc; all catering equipment should be packed and stacked in the containers/boxes/crates delivered in – we do not expect you to clean crockery, cutlery or glasses but do appreciate you removing excess foods etc. Part of the service we include in your hire price is Deliver Clean – Collect Dirty.

Linen should not be packed away damp

as linen will form mildew almost immediately. Any damage resulting from mildew or other stains will be invoiced at the full replacement value. 

What happens if something is broken, damaged or missing?

We do charge for missing, broken or damaged items. All equipment is the responsibility of the hirer for the duration of the hire period. We can provide you with an insurance value for the equipment you are hiring if required. Be sure equipment is secured when not in use and protected from weather.