1. Acceptance of Terms
These Terms of Service ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("Customer," "Renter," or "you") and Flux Venture ("Company," "we," "us," or "our") regarding your use of our equipment rental services.
Important Notice
By booking, renting, or using any equipment from Flux Venture, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and all applicable laws and regulations.
If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not use our services or rent any equipment from us.
2. Definitions
For the purposes of these Terms, the following definitions apply:
"Equipment"
All machinery, tools, vehicles, instruments, and other items available for rental from Flux Venture, including all accessories, attachments, and components.
"Rental Period"
The agreed duration for which Equipment is rented, commencing from delivery or collection and ending upon return or re-collection.
"Rental Rate"
The charges payable for the rental of Equipment, including daily, weekly, or monthly rates as specified in the rental agreement.
"Site"
The location where the Equipment will be used, as specified in the rental agreement.
"Services"
All services provided by Flux Venture, including equipment rental, delivery, collection, maintenance, and customer support.
3. Rental Agreement
Each rental transaction is governed by:
- These Terms of Service
- The specific rental agreement or booking confirmation
- Any additional terms specified for particular equipment
- Our current pricing and policies
Formation of Agreement
A binding rental agreement is formed when:
- You submit a rental request or booking
- We confirm availability and provide a quotation
- You accept the quotation and make the required payment
- We provide written confirmation of the rental
Agreement Priority
In case of conflict between these Terms and a specific rental agreement, the specific rental agreement takes precedence for that particular rental.
4. Eligibility Requirements
To rent equipment from Flux Venture, you must meet the following requirements:
Individual Customers
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Provide valid government-issued identification
- Have a valid address within the UK
- Possess appropriate licences or certifications for specialised equipment
- Provide satisfactory credit references if required
Business Customers
- Be a registered business entity in the UK
- Provide valid business registration documents
- Have an authorised representative sign rental agreements
- Maintain appropriate business insurance
- Meet our credit assessment requirements
Licence and Certification Requirements
For certain equipment, you must provide proof of:
- Valid driving licence (for vehicle rentals)
- Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card
- Plant operator certifications (CPCS/NPORS)
- Health and safety training certificates
- Any other legally required permits or licences
Compliance Responsibility
You are solely responsible for ensuring you meet all legal requirements for operating rented equipment. We reserve the right to refuse rental if requirements are not met.
5. Booking and Reservation Process
How to Make a Booking
- Equipment Selection: Choose the equipment you need from our available inventory
- Date Selection: Specify your required rental period
- Quote Request: Submit a request for quotation
- Confirmation: Review and accept our quotation
- Payment: Make the required payment or provide payment guarantee
- Documentation: Complete all necessary paperwork
Booking Confirmation
Your booking is confirmed when:
- Payment is received and processed
- All required documentation is completed
- Equipment availability is verified
- You receive written confirmation from us
Advance Booking
We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability. Priority is given to confirmed bookings with payment received.
Booking Changes
Changes to confirmed bookings may be subject to availability and additional charges. We require at least 24 hours notice for booking modifications.
6. Payment Terms
Payment Methods
We accept the following payment methods:
- Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Debit cards
- Bank transfers (BACS)
- Business accounts (approved customers)
- Cash (for walk-in customers, subject to limits)
Payment Schedule
Individual/New Customers
- Full payment required at time of booking
- Security deposit required for high-value equipment
- Additional charges due immediately upon occurrence
Business Customers
- Payment terms: Net 30 days (approved customers)
- Credit limit applies
- Late payment fees: 2% per month
- Deposit may be required
Security Deposits
Security deposits may be required for:
- High-value equipment (over £5,000)
- New customers
- Long-term rentals (over 30 days)
- Equipment with high damage/theft risk
Additional Charges
You may be liable for additional charges including:
- Damage repair costs
- Cleaning fees
- Late return charges
- Delivery and collection fees
- Fuel costs (where applicable)
- Storage fees for delayed collection
VAT and Pricing
All prices are exclusive of VAT unless otherwise stated. VAT will be added at the current UK rate. Prices are subject to change without notice.
7. Delivery and Collection
Delivery Service
We offer delivery services within our coverage area:
- Birmingham and surrounding areas (free within 10 miles)
- Extended coverage area (delivery charges apply)
- Standard delivery times: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday
- Weekend and out-of-hours delivery available (additional charges)
Customer Responsibilities for Delivery
- Ensure suitable access for delivery vehicles
- Provide safe and secure delivery location
- Be present or arrange representation during delivery
- Check equipment condition upon delivery
- Report any discrepancies immediately
Collection Service
Equipment must be collected promptly at the end of the rental period:
- Collection arranged in advance
- Equipment must be available at the delivery location
- Clean and undamaged condition expected
- All accessories and components must be present
Failed Deliveries and Collections
If delivery or collection cannot be completed due to customer-related issues:
- Additional visit charges will apply
- Storage fees may be incurred
- Rental period may commence/continue regardless
Site Access
You are responsible for ensuring our delivery vehicles can safely access the site. Any damages to our vehicles or delays due to site access issues may result in additional charges.
8. Equipment Condition and Inspection
Pre-Rental Inspection
All equipment is inspected before rental to ensure:
- Proper working condition
- Safety compliance
- Cleanliness and presentation
- Completeness of accessories
Customer Inspection Obligations
Upon receiving equipment, you must:
- Immediately inspect the equipment for defects or damage
- Test all functions before use
- Report any issues within 24 hours of delivery
- Document any pre-existing damage
- Ensure equipment suitability for intended use
Acceptance of Equipment
Equipment is deemed accepted unless:
- Defects are reported within 24 hours
- Equipment fails to operate as intended
- Safety issues are identified
Inspection Responsibility
Failure to inspect equipment promptly or report defects may result in you being liable for damage that could have been prevented or was pre-existing.
Return Condition Requirements
Equipment must be returned in the same condition as delivered:
- Clean and free from debris
- Undamaged beyond normal wear
- Complete with all accessories
- Fuel tank filled (if applicable)
- Any temporary modifications removed
9. Equipment Use and Restrictions
Authorised Use Only
Equipment must only be used:
- For its intended purpose
- By trained and competent operators
- At the specified location (unless agreed otherwise)
- Within manufacturer's specifications
- In compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
Prohibited Activities
The following activities are strictly prohibited:
- Sub-letting or sub-renting equipment
- Using equipment for illegal purposes
- Operating equipment while under influence of alcohol or drugs
- Exceeding manufacturer's weight or capacity limits
- Using equipment in hazardous environments without proper precautions
- Modifying equipment without written permission
- Removing safety devices or guards
Operator Requirements
Equipment operators must:
- Be appropriately trained and certified
- Follow manufacturer's operating instructions
- Conduct pre-use safety checks
- Use required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Report any malfunctions immediately
Location Restrictions
Equipment may not be:
- Moved from the agreed site without permission
- Used on public roads (unless road-legal and licenced)
- Taken overseas
- Used in areas restricted by law or regulation
Violation Consequences
Violation of use restrictions may result in immediate termination of the rental agreement, full liability for damages, and potential legal action.
10. Maintenance and Repairs
Our Maintenance Responsibilities
We are responsible for:
- Pre-rental servicing and safety checks
- Providing equipment in good working order
- Warranty repairs for manufacturing defects
- Major servicing and overhauls
Customer Maintenance Obligations
During the rental period, you must:
- Perform daily safety and operational checks
- Maintain fluid levels (oil, fuel, hydraulic fluid)
- Keep equipment clean and free from debris
- Report any malfunctions immediately
- Follow manufacturer's maintenance schedules for long-term rentals
Repair Procedures
If equipment requires repair:
- Stop using the equipment immediately
- Contact our service team
- Do not attempt repairs without authorisation
- Allow our technicians access for repairs
- Document any incident that caused the need for repair
Unauthorised Repairs
Unauthorised repairs or modifications may result in:
- Voiding of equipment warranty
- Full liability for repair costs
- Safety liability issues
- Termination of rental agreement
Emergency Repairs
In emergency situations, contact us immediately. We provide 24/7 emergency support for critical equipment failures. Emergency repair costs may be charged to the customer if caused by misuse.
11. Damage, Loss, and Theft
Customer Liability
You are liable for all damage, loss, or theft of equipment during the rental period, including:
- Accidental damage
- Negligent or improper use damage
- Theft from unsecured locations
- Vandalism or malicious damage
- Weather-related damage (if preventable)
Damage Assessment
Damage will be assessed based on:
- Repair costs from authorised service centres
- Replacement value for total loss
- Loss of rental income during repair period
- Transportation and logistics costs
Security Requirements
You must ensure equipment is:
- Secured when not in use
- Stored in appropriate conditions
- Protected from weather damage
- Removed from public access areas when possible
- Fitted with any provided security devices
Theft Reporting
In case of theft, you must:
- Report to police immediately
- Notify us within 24 hours
- Provide police report reference
- Cooperate with insurance investigations
- Provide detailed statement of circumstances
Liability Limitation
Your liability may be limited by insurance coverage (where applicable) but minimum excess amounts will apply. Ensure you understand your liability exposure before rental.
12. Insurance Requirements
Mandatory Insurance
All customers must maintain appropriate insurance coverage:
- Public Liability: Minimum £2 million coverage
- Employer's Liability: Required for business customers
- Professional Indemnity: For certain equipment types
- Motor Insurance: For road-going equipment
Equipment Insurance Options
We offer optional equipment insurance:
- Damage Waiver: Reduces customer liability for accidental damage
- Theft Protection: Coverage against theft and malicious damage
- Extended Coverage: Comprehensive protection including weather damage
Insurance Claims Process
For insurance claims:
- Notify us immediately of any incident
- Complete incident report forms
- Provide photographs and witness statements
- Cooperate with insurance assessors
- Do not admit liability
Self-Insurance
Large corporate customers may self-insure with:
- Board resolution confirming self-insurance
- Financial guarantees
- Directors' personal guarantees
Insurance Verification
We reserve the right to verify insurance coverage and may require certificates of insurance before releasing equipment. Failure to maintain required insurance may result in termination of the rental agreement.
13. Liability and Indemnification
Limitation of Our Liability
Our liability is limited as follows:
- Total liability shall not exceed the rental value of the equipment
- No liability for consequential or indirect losses
- No liability for loss of profits or business interruption
- No liability for defects reported after 24 hours
- Liability limited to direct physical damage only
Customer Indemnification
You agree to indemnify us against all claims arising from:
- Your use of the equipment
- Third-party injury or property damage
- Breach of these Terms
- Negligent or improper use of equipment
- Violation of laws or regulations
Force Majeure
Neither party shall be liable for delays or failures due to:
- Acts of God (natural disasters)
- War, terrorism, or civil disturbance
- Government actions or regulations
- Labour strikes or industrial disputes
- Pandemics or health emergencies
Exclusions
Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability for:
- Death or personal injury caused by negligence
- Fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation
- Any other liability that cannot be excluded by law
Risk Assumption
By renting equipment, you assume all risks associated with its use. Ensure you understand these risks and have appropriate measures in place to manage them.
14. Termination and Cancellation
Customer Cancellation
You may cancel your rental booking:
- More than 48 hours before delivery: Full refund less administrative fee
- 24-48 hours before delivery: 50% refund
- Less than 24 hours before delivery: No refund
- After delivery: Standard rental charges apply
Early Return
Early return of equipment:
- Minimum rental period charges apply
- No refund for unused rental time (short-term rentals)
- Pro-rata refunds may apply for long-term rentals (over 30 days)
- Collection charges apply regardless of rental duration
Termination by Us
We may terminate the rental agreement immediately if:
- Payment is overdue by more than 7 days
- Equipment is being misused or operated unsafely
- You breach any of these Terms
- Equipment is at risk of damage or seizure
- Required insurance lapses
Consequences of Termination
Upon termination:
- Equipment must be returned immediately
- All outstanding charges become due
- We may recover equipment at your expense
- Security deposits may be forfeited
Equipment Recovery
If equipment is not returned following termination, we may enter the site to recover it and charge you for all associated costs, including legal fees.
15. Force Majeure
Neither party shall be responsible for delays or failures to perform due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to:
Force Majeure Events
- Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, severe weather)
- War, terrorism, or threat thereof
- Government actions, laws, or regulations
- Labour disputes, strikes, or lockouts
- Pandemics or public health emergencies
- Fire, explosion, or other catastrophes
- Failure of utilities or telecommunications
Notice Requirements
The affected party must:
- Notify the other party immediately
- Provide details of the force majeure event
- Estimate the expected duration of impact
- Take reasonable steps to mitigate the effects
Effect on Rental Agreements
During force majeure events:
- Rental periods may be extended without additional charge
- Delivery and collection may be delayed
- Equipment may need to be secured or relocated
- Alternative arrangements may be necessary
16. Data Protection
We are committed to protecting your personal information in accordance with UK data protection laws.
Information We Collect
- Personal identification information
- Business and financial information
- Rental history and preferences
- Communication records
How We Use Your Information
- Processing rental agreements
- Managing customer accounts
- Providing customer service
- Marketing communications (with consent)
- Legal and regulatory compliance
For detailed information about our data practices, please see our Privacy Policy.
17. Intellectual Property
Our Intellectual Property Rights
All intellectual property rights in our services, website, and materials remain our property, including:
- Trademarks and service marks
- Website content and design
- Operating manuals and documentation
- Software and applications
Equipment Manufacturer Rights
Equipment may be subject to manufacturer intellectual property rights:
- You may not copy or reverse engineer equipment
- Software licences remain with manufacturers
- Operating manuals are provided for use only
- Patent rights are protected
Permitted Use
You may use our intellectual property only:
- For the purpose of the rental agreement
- During the rental period
- In accordance with these Terms
- Without modification or alteration
18. Governing Law
These Terms and all rental agreements are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.
Jurisdiction
The courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising from or connected with these Terms or any rental agreement.
Applicable Regulations
All rentals are subject to:
- Consumer Rights Act 2015
- Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982
- Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977
- Data Protection Act 2018
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
19. Dispute Resolution
Informal Resolution
We encourage early resolution of disputes through:
- Direct discussion with our management team
- Written complaint procedures
- Good faith negotiations
Formal Dispute Process
- Written Notice: Formal complaint in writing
- Investigation: Internal review and response within 14 days
- Mediation: Independent mediation if required
- Arbitration: Binding arbitration for disputes over £10,000
- Court Action: Final resort for unresolved disputes
Small Claims
Disputes under £10,000 may be referred to the Small Claims Court where appropriate.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
We support the use of alternative dispute resolution methods including:
- Industry ombudsman schemes
- Trade association mediation
- Commercial arbitration services
20. Amendments
Changes to Terms
We may update these Terms from time to time to reflect:
- Changes in law or regulation
- New service offerings
- Industry best practices
- Operational requirements
Notification of Changes
We will notify customers of material changes by:
- Email notification to registered customers
- Website announcements
- Updated terms provided with new rentals
- Direct communication for significant changes
Effective Date
Changes become effective 30 days after notification unless:
- Required by law to be immediate
- Related to safety or security issues
- You specifically agree to earlier implementation
Existing Agreements
Changes to Terms will not affect existing rental agreements unless:
- Agreed by both parties
- Required by law
- Related to safety or compliance issues