How do I check a farm venue’s booking deposits and cancellation record?

Start with the standard contract. Read what it says about deposits, balances, cancellations, rescheduling and refunds. Then ask for the ledger of upcoming events with the deposit paid for each, and compare it with the bank statements. The money already collected for future dates is a real obligation, and you should know exactly where it is held.

Next, study the cancellation record. List each cancellation, when it happened, why, and what was refunded or kept. Look for patterns: bad weather, a poor season, a dispute with a particular client or a competitor opening nearby. Ask whether the owner ever bent the rules, and whether any disagreements remain open.

Finally, settle what happens at closing. Ask your lawyer how to treat deposits for events after the sale, and whether the buyer takes over those bookings or the money is adjusted. Speak to a few booked clients in advance if the seller will allow it. A venue that handles cancellations fairly keeps its reputation, and that is worth knowing before you step in. Ask also whether the venue carries any insurance for cancelled events, and how weather days are handled in practice. Request copies of any complaint emails from past clients.

Key takeaways

• Match the deposit ledger to bank records for every future booking.
• Read the cancellation history for patterns, refunds and open disputes.
• Agree how deposits for future events are treated at closing.