Frequently Asked Questions
How can I book an event?
Email DACfacilities@durhamarts.org to check availability and request a quote. Once you receive a quote from DAC for your event rental you will then need to confirm that you would like to move forward with a contract. DAC does not hold any spaces until that confirmation is received. We work on a first-come first-served basis for contracting and will not contact individuals if other interest is shown in the date.
Once DAC receives that confirmation then your event is entered on the schedule and your date is saved. When you receive your contract you will have 2 weeks (unless otherwise specified) to return an initialed/signed copy of the contract with your first payment in order to reserve your event date. Your second payment and event specific documents will be due back to DAC one month before the event date.
What is the cancelation policy?
If a client wishes to cancel their event after DAC has received a signed contract and deposit, the client is required to provide written notification. Our refund policy is as follows:
- Client will receive 100% of the fees paid, less $100, if Client gives DAC written notice ninety (90) days before event
- Client will receive 75% of the fees paid, less $100, if Client gives DAC written notice between eighty nine (89) and sixty (60) days before event.
- Client will receive 50% of the fees paid, less $100, if Client gives DAC written notice between fifty nine (59) and forty five (45) days before event
- No refund will be issued if Client gives DAC written notice less than forty five (45) days before event
Does DAC provide staff for my event?
DAC does not provide staffing during events beyond security. Please plan accordingly and consider this when deciding whether to flip certain spaces during events. Your emergency contact during your event will be whoever is stationed at the front desk.
What about set-up and break-down?
All rental rates are based on a standard 4 hour event time. In addition to your 4 hour event time, we allow a two hour complimentary set-up window before your event for decoration and organization and a one hour complimentary clean-up time to break down after your event. You are responsible for the items you/your vendors bring in. In addition we ask that trash/recycling be taken out to the dumpsters directly beside the building.
Additional event/set up/break down time can be purchased by the hour, but must be contiguous with existing hours.
You will be asked to provide a floor plan for your event prior to it. DAC staff will set up and break down any tables and chairs rented from DAC for your event as close to the floor plans you provide as possible. Deviations from floor plans will depend on fire code, client safety, and artwork protection, and where possible will be discussed with client beforehand.
Do we have to choose from a list of preferred caterers?
DAC allows you to bring in your own food service provider for your special event. We do not have a preferred vendor list; leaving the choice entirely up to you. Rental of the Catering Center includes the use of all appliances, however DAC does not provide small equipment such as pots and pans, serving utensils etc. Client is responsible for cleaning the Catering Center at the end of the event. Our catering center is for prep, reheating and plating only. The food service provider is responsible for cooking food offsite, and following all appropriate food, health and safety guidelines necessary for the event during all stages of the catering process, including but not limited to, preparation, transportation, serving, and removal of food items at the appropriate time.