I'm new at this for 6yrs. I see where some talk about sighning a disclaimer. Can some one tell me what she be in this for my customers so I don't eat the loss?
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Texas, I always resisted having a contract since I thought it sort of got in the way of the friendly informal way I had of doing business. What that got me over time was more unclaimed mounts and people that took months to find enough money to pick up their stuff. now I have a contract that states the general agreement between my customer and myself. Important points are that I'm not responsible if the critter spoils due to electric failure or unknown bacteria damage, fire, theft,and other accidents beyond my control. Especially noted is not responsible for tanning failures whether by me or a commercial tanner. Also I put in my guarantee which is basicaly no guarantee as I can't control how the customer will display the mount, bugs can destroy the best mount and sunny rooms will bleach all the color out of hair. I require a 50% deposit and no work starts till it's paid (I learned this lesson well) and all mounts must be picked up and paid for within 30 days of the notification of completion or they are my property. Included in my contract are things that I agree to do- protect the customers' specimans, properly label everything, provide freezer storage as needed, use modern accepted methods and quality materials and make a genuine effort to produce a quality mount within the limitations of the speciman. On this contract I list the items I receive from the guy and it's apparant condition. Negligence is not excused and you can still be sued but at least you have something that is signed by both of you and each has a copy. This is briefly what I have and I'm no lawyer but I think it cuts down some on those that never come back.--Aaron H.
I keep mine simple. I have a customer sign one for my protection. Not theirs. Here is what I use.
Customer____________________________
Address_____________________________________________________________
SSAN____________________ Tag#____________________ State Taken________
County Taken____________________ Method of harvest______________________
Species__________________sex, M. F. date taken____________date___________
I hereby leave in the possession of (Taxidermy shop Name)the afore described Game, for the purpose of taxidermy.
I realize that leaving this animal does not guarantee the outcome of the finished product to meet any specific standard. I further realize that the treatment of the animal prior to leaving it with (Taxidermy shop Name) may have a bearing on the outcome of the tanning, or mounting process. and understand that circumstances beyond the control of the Taxidermist may adversely affect the finished product.
I also understand that I am responsible for payment in full for the amount of the finished product within 30 days of completion of said product. And further understand that mounts or tanning work left beyond 30 days of completion will be assessed a storage fee of $1.50 per day. Mounts left beyond 60 days will become the property of the taxidermist, and may be disposed of. failure to retrieve said finished product, will not relieve me of said responsibility.
I attest That the Animal, Bird, Reptile, or hide thereof described above was legally taken, and assume all responsibility for any legal ramifications resulting from leaving said animal, bird, reptile, or hide thereof with (Taxidermy Shop Name). Including but not limited to Fines, Court costs, Attorney fees, lost wages, or any other expense incurred as a result of false statements made herein.
Signature___________________________Date___________