Q: What services does FM Tents offer?
A: We hire out tents and accessories, we also provide full setup, dismantle services and can even supply on site support if required. We can source lighting, generators, extra decor and event management services from our trusted suppliers.
Q: Why should I choose FM Tents?
A: We are passionate about our canvas tents and their beautiful wooden frames. It is this which drives us to ensure they look their best for every event. Along with Hannah’s experience in event organisation and Mark’s natural instinct for hard work gives the perfect combination for bringing together perfect events.
Q: What if I want something different from what is shown on the website?
A: We have lots of contacts in the events industry who can assist us with tents, decor and other event requirements. Please contact us to discuss anything you require and we will do our best to help meet your needs.
Q: How much space do I need to allow to pitch the tent?
A: The size of the tents are given on the Tents page however extra space is needed for guy ropes, this differs from tent to tent and can be adjusted to a certain extent on the amount of space you have so it is always best to contact us to help guide you.
Q: How can I pay?
A: You can pay by bank transfer, cash, cheque or card using Paypal invoice payments (this will incur a 2.5% handling fee). We ask for a 30% deposit to confirm the booking, with the balance payable 7 days before the first day of hire. Please note that cheques must be with us to allow sufficient time for funds to clear.
Q: How long does it take to erect the tent?
A: It takes us about three hours to erect the Alachigh, two hours for a Tipi or Ouled Nail and a whole day for the Grand Pavilion depending on interior requirements. Bell tents go up significantly quicker, between 30-45 minutes, but it depends on size and how many have been hired.
Q: How do tents handle wet and windy weather?
A: If the weather is inclement being outdoors under canvas is still a fun event. Tents are fully waterproof, and with flooring and heating feel warm and toasty inside. If there are very high winds then we make an assessment to ensure that erecting or collapsing the tents will not be a high risk to health and safety for crew. Force 5 wind, which is up to 25mph, is when we would consider delaying erection until the wind subsides. Event insurance cover can be found on the internet to offset some weather risks unduly affecting an event.
Q: Can I have an open fire in my tent?
A: No, however in some of out tents you can use a closed unit such as a log burner to prevent overspill of wood and coals. Please ask for details.
Q: Can guests smoke in the tents?
A: In response to the new no-smoking law the following information is useful:
Are Marquees & Tents affected? Yes, the law does apply to temporary structures. Premises are considered ‘substantially enclosed’
if they have a ceiling or roof, but have an opening in the walls, which is less than half the total area of the walls. The area of the opening does not include doors, windows or any other fittings that can be opened or shut.
Is a marquee or tent a public Place?
A marquee or tents supplied to private property, where the only uses are pre-invited non paying guests then, apparently, this is not a public place. However please bear in mind that if there are any subcontractors on site, such as entertainers, speakers, caterers, DJs or other event support staff, then the Marquee becomes a public place.
What is your responsibility?
There is a requirement for substantially enclosed public structures to have non smoking signs prominently displayed at each entrance. There should be a large (at least A5) sign including the no-smoking symbol at least 70mm in diameter, and carrying the words “No Smoking”. It is against the law to smoke in these Premises, displayed at every public entrance. A smaller sign consisting of the no-smoking symbol at least 70mm in diameter may be instead displayed at staff entrances.
The law does not make it clear however whether the display of these signs is the responsibility of the event organiser or the Marquee provider. Having consulted authorities the responsibility would be considered a joint one.
Q: Do I need event insurance?
A: Standard arrangements when hiring any form of equipment is that the client is fully responsible for all loss or damage. With the value of our equipment on lots of hires extending to many thousands of pound it is important that the equipment is properly insured. Hirers can find ‘Event insurance’ through search engines to see what’s available. We have insurance for public liability however equipment is signed over to the hirer for the duration and is their responsibility. Depending upon your outlook you may want the extra protection given by specific insurance for your event.
Q: Are your tents fire retardant?
A: Yes. Our tents are constructed from fire retardant fabrics, as is our flooring and most of our decor.
Q: Are there Fire Regulations for holding an event in a tent?
A: We can offer guidance on Fire Regulations which FM Tents follows to assist with the organisation of your event, please contact us for these notes.