Policies

Hours

Avista is open by appointment only. We would be happy to schedule an appointment for you between 10 am - 4:30 pm Monday thru Friday. Because of our busy hands-on production schedule, installations and deliveries, there are times we are not in the warehouse. Please be sure to call ahead and schedule an appointment so we are here to meet you.  Traffic can be unpredictable getting to Norristown; please plan accordingly.  Be sure to keep us informed if you run into trouble.  

There are a few steps leading up to the office, please let us know if you have trouble with steps so we can bring you in thru the loading dock on the warehouse level.

Pricing

Our prices are by the day with a 15 day minimum.  There are no price adjustments if you return early as the item has already been marked unavailable for others.  We try to accommodate as many productions as possible each season, but that can only be possible with everyone's cooperation so we ask that you don't reserve an item until you are sure that you want it and let us know asap if you change your mind.  We understand the unexpected changes during a production, but try to keep those changes to a minimum so the items are as widely available as possible.

Damages

Once an item leaves our warehouse, you are responsible for that item.  There is a replacement cost on your rental contract for each item.  If the damage is repairable, you will be billed at the rate of $30 per hour for the repairs.  

Payment

We accept cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover for payment.  We also may require a credit card for deposit until you return the items.  We prefer payment on pick up of the items, but can give an invoice to be turned into the organization for payment.  Final payment is due during the run of your show.   Films, LLCs, and new customers must pay upon pick up and supply a credit card for security deposit as well as a copy of the insurance certificate.

Delivery and Pick-up

If you have a large rental we ask that you give us some time to prep and pack the rental before pick up.  We will try to accommodate same day browse and pick-up on smaller rentals, but please plan timing accordingly (and make an appointment) so we have enough time to get you what you need.

Please make an appointment to pick up your items Monday thru Friday 10 am - 4:30 pm.  If the weather looks bad we require that you come in a closed bed vehicle.  No trailers or open bed pick ups during inclement weather.  

We do offer a curb-side delivery service if needed.  You must provide labor to bring the items from the truck into the building.  In general, delivery is $175 within 10 miles of Norristown and $200 to Philadelphia.  Extra large rentals or extreme distance may incur additional charges.  Please call the office to confirm fees.  We only deliver during our regular work hours.  Weekend deliveries may be able to be scheduled for additional fees on a case by case basis.

Rental Items

Many items in our inventory are antiques and need to be treated as such.  Furniture should never be stood or jumped on.  Arms of sofas and chairs are not re-enforced for sitting or standing unless stated in the description.  If you need to stand on, step on, dance on or generally not use the items as originally intended please tell us before renting.  We may be able to steer you towards items that can withstand the added abuse.

Electronics, appliances, lamps, and cameras may only be decorative and not in working order.  Please check before renting if you need it to function. 

After your Production

Please make an appointment to return your rental the week before your production ends.  Return appointments are the same as pick up appointments- 10 am - 4:30 pm Monday thru Friday.  Make sure to return all items in the same condition as when you picked up.  Please remove all Mortite, Joe's Sticky Stuff and glow tape.  Remember no open bed vehicles if the weather looks iffy. 

If by chance you return an item you did not rent from us, we will try to hold those items for a few days.  However, any items left after 30 days will be become property of Avista.  

Let us know if you need to rehome items you did not rent from us after your production.  We are always looking for items to add to our stock.  Send us some photos and information before your return, and we may be able to make a deal.