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Key Provisions in Film Location Agreements

By Maxwell Briskman Stanfield
March 01, 2020

Property owners granting production companies access to their properties seems like a no-brainer — who wouldn't want their property featured in that next big blockbuster movie or hit television series? As a property owner, the financial reward for allowing a production company to use the property — and the potential to help raise the profile of the featured location — can be very enticing. However, when filming occurs on private property, a location agreement is a must, from the perspectives of both the production company and the property owner.

No different than any other use or occupation of a piece of property, allowing a party access comes with inherent risks and openings for potential liability. Often, production companies have their preferred "form of" location agreement ready to use when a shoot approaches, but mindful property owners may want to negotiate the agreement's provisions prior to signing and giving the go-ahead.

As with any agreement, depending upon which side you represent or which side you are on (property owner or production company) and the type of property (i.e., hotel, apartment building, commercial facility, single family residence, etc.), there are certain considerations and nuances that require attention.

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