Product Liability Insurance Cost
A product liability insurance policy is designed in a way to protect a business from a lawsuit in the case the product causes either bodily injury harm and/or property damage.
If you sell any type of product to the public, your liability risk can be quite high, and if you’re not covered, the average lawsuit can cost you well into the five or even six+ figures.
Being important, some supply chains may not work with you unless you show proof of this insurance coverage.
How much does product liability insurance cost?
The average cost of product liability insurance, based on our research, will depend on your company profile, the industry you’re working in, your revenue, the products and/or services you sell and the size of the business, to name a few. According to Insureon.com, a company that offers this type of insurance policy, notes the average policy is $576.09, with product liability insurance often included in a general liability policy. Some manufacturers, again, based on the factors mentioned prior, as well as the factors mentioned below, can often increase the premiums well past $1,000+ per year.
Some experts, to make the calculation easy, recommend multiplying 0.025% by your annual revenue numbers. If you had $5 million in revenue, for example, then your total premium could be about $1,250 as long as you had a clean history.
Factors affecting the cost
The type of business/product: Some industries, as you can imagine, can be much riskier than another. A baby product or medical device-like product could cost much more to insure in comparison to something such as telephone case. Your results will vary and any good insurance agent will be able to provide info as to how “risky” your product could be.
Size of your business and number of products: The larger your business is and the number of products you need to insure, the higher your premium will be, of course, but this price “per product” may drop as a bulk discount depending on the insurer.
Geographical location: As with anything, your geographical location can greatly affect the price as your property value and the local laws can greatly drive your insurance costs up.
Value: Your company’s value can play a role as well. Why? Companies that have a lot of money are often a larger target than a mom and pop establishment up the road.
Claims: How many claims are on your record? Like any insurance policy, the more claims you have, the higher your premiums could be.
Limits: Again, like all insurance policies, increasing or decreasing your coverage limits and deductibles, to name a few can increase and decrease your annual premiums.
State required limits: All states will have its own laws and the minimums in one state could be much higher than the next.
What is product liability insurance?
A product liability insurance policy will protect the manufacturer, supplier, distributor, importer or the retailer from any claims that are made for injuries and/or damages which were due to the use of the said product. This specialty insurance policy, either purchased on its own or as a supplement for your general liability policy, can also cover any sort of tampering, contamination, recall costs and/or crisis management expenses in some cases.
How to save on product liability insurance
Safety policies: Be sure to focus on the safety of your products as the lower your risks are, the fewer claims you will have. This, in turn, will lower your annual premiums and effectively reduce the chances of lawsuits in the future. If need be, talk with a professional or consultant in your area to see how you can offer the safest product on the market.
Watch the coverage: Like a homeowners or car insurance policy, you may be able to increase your deductible and potentially save hundreds or even thousands per month if you find the right “middle ground.” Do not have too much coverage or too little as this may be unnecessary for your budget.
Compare: There are hundreds of companies out there that want to insure your products. As with any purchase, be sure to comparison shop to make sure you’re making the right choice, both financially and coverage wise.
What does product liability insurance cover and not cover?
It covers… bodily injury in the event someone was wrongfully injured by your product or in the case your product caused property damage. It can also cover foodborne illnesses. If a jury awards the victim, then your insurance should cover the cost of any lost wages, damages, repairs, care, legal fees and/or the restitution for death. This is very broad, so be sure to know your inclusions with your insurance company as they all do vary.
It does not cover… quality control, product failure, failing to report changes and forbidden materials. It also will not cover employee injuries, product recalls, damage to your products, lost inventory and/or professional liabilities — basically anything that can be covered under another policy. For instance, if you made a change in your product and/or your product failed to perform its function, then your insurance policy probably will not cover you. The same can be said if you use a “forbidden” ingredient inside of your product, even if your insurance carrier approved you initially. Again, check with your insurance agent to know what is not covered to be sure you’re not open to any surprises in the future.
Liquor Liability Insurance Cost
A liquor liability insurance policy, sometimes referred to as a dram shop insurance policy, will offer financial protection in the case the restaurant is found at fault for any alcohol-related incidents. A good insurance policy will cover you in the event of an altercation, injury or and/or any other event involving someone who consumed alcohol at your establishment.
If you sell liquor and/or alcohol on site, then, in some cases, you could be held responsible for your patron’s actions or wrongdoings, even when they leave your grounds. And even if you have a liquor liability insurance policy, it still will not prevent an individual from suing you; it’s designed to protect your assets as one lawsuit could put you out of business.
As alcohol-related incidents are often excluded from a general liability policy, restaurant owners have no choice but to purchase this type of policy.
How much does liquor liability insurance cost?
The average cost of liquor liability insurance, as with any insurance policy, will depend on the insurance company you choose, your geographical location, the limits, the kinds of coverage you want, the type of alcohol you’re selling, your business space and your deductible. Other factors can affect the price as well, which will get into below, but for the most part, be prepared to spend anywhere from $800 to $2,500+ per year.
CoverWallet.com states the median monthly costs for an average sized business is about $107, but a low-cost policy could be as little as $16 per month.
Additional cost factors to consider
The volume of beverages sold: Like a car insurance policy, if you have no claims in the past and the liquor sales are less than 25 percent of the revenue, then these applicants tend to pay less than someone who had claims in the past.
Annual revenue: With most of the insurance companies on the market, from what we researched, would closely look at the annual revenue, especially from alcoholic sals. If the volume exceeds the food sales, then the premium will often cost about 20 to 30 percent more.
Hours: A restaurant/bar that stays open much later than the average restaurant/bar will be considered a higher risk and, therefore, can pay a higher premium because of it.
Establishment: All establishments are not created equally as a bar will be much different than a family diner. Considering all of the factors in this list, a higher end restaurant with a limited alcohol menu may pay a lower premium than a bar that is open until 2 in the morning.
Entertainment: It has been noted that an establishment with entertainment, such as a billiards table, for example, can be considered a greater risk due to the assault and battery incidents that can happen.
Training: A restaurant owner who invests in staff training can often see a discount on their policy.
Claims history: As with any insurance policy, the cleaner your record is, the cheaper your policy can be.
State laws: All state laws will vary, with some state insurance companies requiring higher minimums than another. Based on these minimums, this could affect your total premium in most cases.
Do I need a liquor liability policy?
The answer depends as it is based on your local state laws as to where the business is located. In some cases, your state will not issue a liquor license unless your establishment is provided to the licensing board. However, in some states, such as Texas and Louisiana, there are “softer” rules, meaning an establishment may not require it.
Aside from the licensing board, many lenders will require you have a liquor liability policy before a loan is approved, just like a mortgage requires homeowners insurance.
What is not covered?
As we touched upon above, a liquor liability policy will be separate from a general liability policy, and depending on the insurer you choose, many policies will not cover the following:
Any bodily injury or property damage not affiliated with alcohol
Assualt and/or battery due to the result of a sale, servicing and/or furnishing of an alcoholic beverage
Injury due to serving an underage minor
A lot of policies will not cover volunteers who work with your establishment
May act as a second layer of coverage, meaning you may have to resort to other policies before this insurer pays
Any other offense that may be considered a bodily injury or property damage
Damages not associated with alcohol to personal property
NOTE: Again, as all insurers will vary, it is best to talk with your insurance company to know, for certain, what will not be covered in your policy. In some cases, the scenarios listed above may be covered if you were to buy an endorsement, for example.
Dram Shop laws
In 43 states, something known as the “Dram Shop” law makes it easier for a business to be sued after a patron has caused harm to someone else due to an accident due to alcohol consumption. Even when the patron leaves your bar and causes an accident, you can still be held liable and even sued for the damages, even though you had nothing to do with the accident. Aside from road accidents, you could also get into trouble if a patron were to cause harm, injury and/or get into an altercation on your property while drinking.
Tips to know
A good policy will cover assault and battery, property damage and personal injury caused by a drunk individual, your employees if they happened to drink on the job and any litigation or court fees related to defending your policy.
As noted, most general liability policies will exclude liquor liability coverage for businesses that generate a profit from alcohol sales. This type of policy is designed to fill in the gap for coverage.
If you’re not in the business of selling alcohol, then you may not need this type of insurance policy; instead, you may want to consider either a specialized one-time liquor liability policy, refer to your general liability policy or consider an event insurance policy, all depending on your circumstances.
The median policy limit in most states is $1 million, but the deductible will vary.
How to save on liquor liability insurance
Hire the right people: When selling alcohol to the public, it’s always best to hire the professionals who have been in the business for a while, whether it’s a bartender or waiter/waitress. Properly trained staff can spot early signs of intoxication and know when to cut someone off.
Minors: It sounds silly, but you want to avoid serving minors, even if it means carding everyone who wants a drink. The safer you are with I.D. checks, the safer your establishment can be — no exceptions.
Go off-site: In the case of a work party, for instance, it’s best to have the party elsewhere, such as a restaurant, instead of the actual building in case of an accident.
Train your employees: As mentioned above, properly trained employees, often offered by the insurance company, can reduce your overall costs; plus, it can create a safer enviornment.
Vouchers: If you’re afraid of overconsumption, vouchers can often prevent this from happening by limiting customer’s intake throughout the day.
Hand Controls for Disabled Drivers Cost
Hand controls are devices designed to help allow those with a disability to drive safely and regain their independence. These parts can be paired with all sorts of steering wheel setups, in different configurations, allowing a driver to operate the gas pedal and brake while operating a lever, usually by pulling or pushing. Typically mounted beneath the steering wheel, it often attaches to the pedal itself and can be installed in a car, truck, minivan or SUV, as long as space allows it.
Whether it’s a pedal extension, spinner knob, steering aid, turn signal crossover and/or pedal guards, these devices, designed for a variety of disabilities can greatly range in value, depending on what you need for your circumstances.
For the most part, standard drivers are not able to install hand controls without a rehabilitation specialist prescription.
Cost of hand controls for disabled drivers
In most states, as we indicate below, you will first need a prescription from a local specialist before you install hand and/or foot controls in your vehicle. At this doctor appointment, he or she will run a series of tests, generally testing your overall physical functions, your vision, perception, motor function, reaction time, attention and how well you perform behind the wheel. With all of this information, your specialist will then be able to determine which controls are needed and if you are even a candidate to drive behind the wheel.
The cost of hand controls greatly depend on the type of device you need, the installer you choose, the brand of the device installed and the complexity of the install. From what we researched, if you wanted a device installed inside of your current vehicle, most controls, including the professional installation, would range anywhere from $1,600 to $5,800+. This is just a quote for the hand controls and would not include additional accessories if needed. Most of your basic designs can be closer to the $1,600 range, while your advanced engineered controls can be north of $3,000. The higher-end devices, from what we saw, would often have a better fit and a nicer quality finish, blending in well with the car interior.
These quotes, however, are designed more for a car with an automatic transmission, and if you have a manual transmission, the parts can be installed; however, experts note you should be prepared to pay at least 30 to 50 percent more on average.
With a variety of options online, we broke down the costs, including installation, in our table below:
| Type of Device | Description | Average Price (includes professional install) |
|---|---|---|
| Push Rock | This type of system allows the driver to accelerate and brake while using the handle in a vertical position. Pulling the handle back, for instance, accelerates, while pushing forward, brakes. | $1,600 to $5,800+ |
| Right Angle | A right angle system allows the driver to push either downward toward the lap to brake or accelerate while pushing at a right angle. | $1,600 to $5,800+ |
| Push Pull | Using less strain with the fingers and thumb, pushing the lever down allows the driver to brake, while pulling up allows the driver to accelerate. | $1,600 to $5,800+ |
| Right Hand | The right-hand system is designed to mount near the ground, looking similar to a shifter. Operated with the right hand, when pulled, the car accelerates, but when pushed forward, it brakes. | $1,600 to $5,800+ |
On Amazon.com, for instance, we were able to find controls that ranged anywhere from $175 to $300, but unlike the parts included in the table above, these devices were considered to be portable and designed for as a temporary option. Disabled drivers often choose this route if they find the professionally installed methods to be too expensive.
At AMS Vans, for instance, their hand controls start at $1,320, while another company we found online, MC Mobility Systems, says their controls start at $1,650, a quote which includes the equipment and installation.
Top hand control brands on the market
Guidosimplex USA: Allowing the driver to place both hands on the wheel, the natural “push” allows the driver to brake, with up to 11 secondary controls available at the driver’s fingertips — even a clutch for manual transmission setups. All controls are designed in a way to match the car’s interior.
Menox: Compatible devices, designed for both right and left-handed drivers. All products are rust-free coated, lengthening its lifespan and durability when compared to other brands. This was the first brand to receive a TUV product approval in 2003.
MPS: Designed in 1968 by a driver with a disability who was frustrated with the options at the time, this smooth and effortlessly driver aid has become one of the best sellers on the market today.
Sure-Grip: The leader in the U.S. and Canadian market, the Sure-Grip company was constructed in a way to help even those with the highest level of disability. These controls require very little hand strength when compared to other brands and are designed in a way with a unique vertical level that allows the driver to operate a two handle contract with the steering wheel — a design no other brand on the market offers.
Veigel Automotive: This uniquely designed hand control integrates perfectly with your car’s interior and is extremely easy to use with unmatched design and execution.
Tips to know
In some states, a prescription from a doctor, most often a driver rehabilitation specialist, will be required before a device is installed in your vehicle. For example, in Ohio, you need a prescription via a driver rehabilitation specialist, and on this prescription, they will note exactly which devices you need or an endorsement on your driver’s license to install the necessary devices. These guidelines, as indicated by the state, will protect the driver themselves and others on the road to ensure the person in question is qualified to receive the necessary controls. These specialists, working with people of all ages and abilities, will help evaluate your circumstances, train you with the new devices and even explore alternative transportation methods if necessary. Talk with your local DMV to know the exact steps you need to take to legally have the devices installed.
As long as there is enough room beneath the steering wheel, these devices can be installed, and in fact, according to AMSVans.com, some manufacturers may even offer to assist you with the installation costs.
To purchase hand controls which are installed by a qualified installer, they can only be purchased by dealers who are certified by the manufacturer of the hand controls. When you find a brand you like, such as one of the brands mentioned in the bullet points above, you should be able to either find a dealer either via the brand’s official website or by calling the customer support line.
Day of Wedding Coordinator Cost
Even the “day-of” wedding coordinator has the term “day-of” in it, it does not mean this professional will only work on your wedding day.
Known more to complete “the coordination of the day of the wedding,” a day-of wedding coordinator often starts with a comprehensive consultation, at least four to five weeks prior to the wedding, to determine a timeline and what work needs to be done to ensure everything you dreamed of comes together as planned.
In some cases, depending on the wedding venue you choose, you may be forced to hire a coordinator, at a minimum, depending on the venue’s guidelines.
The average cost of a day-of wedding coordinator
The cost of a “day-of” wedding coordinator, not to be confused with a wedding planner, will depend on the professional you hire, their expertise, your demands, the size of the wedding and the geographical location. As there are quite a few variables, the average day-of wedding coordinator, from the research we compiled, seemed to range anywhere from as little as $500 to more than $2,200+ for just the day. However, we did find that some couples were able to receive more than day-of services as some professional planners were willing to commit a few weeks up to the day-of the actual wedding.
Online, we were able to find a few brides on various websites who did end up hiring one or received a quote, and we included our findings in the table below, along with the source:
| Prices sourced online... | |
|---|---|
| Quote for $400 | SOURCE |
| Paid $500 | SOURCE |
| $800 but included more than just the "day of" | SOURCE |
| $600 | SOURCE |
| $1,800 | SOURCE |
| $750 for the coordinator and assistant | SOURCE |
| $1,600 but received 45 days of service | SOURCE |
| $600 | SOURCE |
| $20/hr but worked at the venue | SOURCE |
| $950 with an assistant | SOURCE |
| $400 | SOURCE |
| $800 with an assistant | SOURCE |
| $900 | SOURCE |
| $1,200 | SOURCE |
| $1,500 | SOURCE |
| $900 | SOURCE |
On this WeddingWire.com forum thread, for instance, one bride-to-be asked what a day-of coordinator would cost, and according to the responses, one member said she received quotes in the $1,500 to $2,500 in New Jersey, while another said she was able to hire hers for $500.
According to BridalGuide.com, the average day-of coordinator can range anywhere from $800 to $2,600 depending on the geographical region, the professional’s experience and the exact specifics. For instance, where will the ceremony and reception be held? At the same place? Are there extra details that weddings do not often include such as a midnight snack bar? How long will the celebration last? As the website indicates, these are all factors to consider which greatly affect the total costs.
What does a day-of wedding coordinator do?
Prior to the wedding, at least five weeks ahead of time, he or she will create a timeline, up to the day of the wedding to ensure the venue is set up as planned. If you’re working with a wedding planner at this time, they will help coordinate with them as well. They can even offer advice, vendor recommendations and collect contracts.
Again, if you’re working with a wedding planner, then they will also help coordinator all of the wedding professionals for the day, either with the planner or the bride and groom.
They will coordinate and help conduct the wedding rehearsal the day prior to the wedding to make sure everything is in working order.
On the day of the wedding, he or she will also:
assist the bride and the entire wedding party with dressing, photo schedules and guide as to where to be throughout the day
checking and confirming the vendor details,
confirming the floorplan, ensuring everything is in the right spot (cake, lights, DJ, etc),
cueing all wedding professionals and assisting
lastly, collecting all personal items, gifts and helping clean up at the end of the day. Usually, the day-of coordinator will be the last person to leave the wedding.
Tips to know
The average day-of coordinator will spend a specific amount of time, usually dictated by their contract, to help prepare for your wedding day. According to OntheBridesSide.com, the average DOC will spend about 15 to 20 hours preparing for your special day. As part of this time, it will include calls/emails, offering vendor advice if you need it, finalizing your timeline, contacting the vendors and sending out all of the appropriate information. On the day of the wedding, their travel time and the time spent at the wedding will all be part of the time they committed to your wedding.
How can you find one? First, start with your venue to see if they have a professional they recommend. By working with someone who is familiar with the venue, this can assure you that you’re working with someone who knows the venue inside and out. If the venue doesn’t know of somebody, then start with a few vendors you may have talked with already. In some cases, they may be able to recommend someone who may be able to work with your venue. Lastly, if all else fails, search online, using popular review websites such as Yelp or even a simple Google search.
According to the Huffington Post, a day-of coordinator usually will not work with last-minute details unless you pay an additional fee. This could include hiring a photographer last minute or finding a caterer, usually within 30 days, but in some cases, a professional may, but again, it could be extra.
Questions you should ask
Be sure to confirm how many hours, at a minimum, they are willing ot commit to your wedding, and if they go over this allocated amount, what will they charge as an overtime fee?
Ask about previous clients they have worked with, and if possible, see if you can talk with the couple to see what they have to say about the services. It also doesn’t hurt to know how many weddings they have worked with in the past. The more experience, as with any professionals, the more comfortable you can be with the selection.
Go with your gut and feel the vibe. While it isn’t a “question” per se, you’re going to want somebody as committed and excited as you are. If your gut points to yes, then it’s wise to continue. Find someone who is willing to listen.
See if they are strictly a day-of coordinator or if they offer packages which include much more than this. If you’re budget is tight, a day-of coordinator could be a great option, especially if they are willing to do more than just help on the day of the event.
Cost to Winterize a Boat
At the conclusion of the boating season, it’s not uncommon to winterize your boat to prevent any costly damage which may happen during the colder months from freezing, corrosion, dormancy and/or moisture.
For instance, if you fail to fog the cylinders with fogging oil, then rust may appear, whereas failing to flush the cooling system or even drain the gear oil case may lead to trapped water, which, when frozen, can expand and damage the expensive housing unit. Boating Magazine claims if you fail to drain the gear-case lubricant, for instance, it could lead to a $2,000 to 6,000 repair.
How much does it cost to winterize a boat?
The cost of winterizing a boat will depend on the professional you choose, the type of boat you have, the type of engine you have, the inclusions in the winterization and your geographical location. From our research, as long as your boat was less than 40-feet, the costs tend to be in the $400 to $700 range for a basic winterization and often did not include any additional storage or shrink wrapping. This seems to be the average price whether you hire a private mechanic, dealer or marina.
We were able to find multiple quotes people paid online and included our findings in the table below along with the source of the information:
| Prices sourced online... | |
|---|---|
| $450 for "full" winterization including oil change, outdrive lube replacement, etc. | SOURCE |
| $450~ quote for engine/drive/fresh water/toilet/AC systems including oil changes | SOURCE |
| $400 for advertised deal for ONLY labor. Needed to add the fluids, oil, filter and antifreeze | SOURCE |
| $680 for shrink wrap, fuel stabilizer and fogging oil | SOURCE |
| $560 for winterization and another $100 for the travel costs | SOURCE |
| $550 in Delaware for shrink wrap, mildew bags, oil change and stabilizer | SOURCE |
| $611 including winterizing the motor and heater, an oil change, impeller replacement and cleaning | SOURCE |
| $280 for oil change and winterization for 90HP Mercury 4 stroke | SOURCE |
Thayers Marine, for instance, lists the prices they charge on its official website. According to the pricing sheet, an outboard winterization, which includes a flush, fog, fuel conditioning, oil change, prop grease, fuel water separator change and anti-corrosion spray, can range anywhere from $290 to $375, depending on the horsepower.
Sportsman’s Boat Storage, located in Counce, TN, offered a great checklist, showing you what each winterization option would cost. For example, servicing and winterizing your inboard-outboard boat could cost $274, including tax, while winterizing but not changing the oil while doing so could bring the costs down to $219.
The extra costs
A lot of the times, if you want to store your boat outside during the colder months, then shrink wrapping will be a must. This, unfortunately, will not be included in the costs above and can cost another $8 to $18+ per foot.
Storing your boat inside of a temperature-controlled facility can be another cost to consider, with the average storage fees ranging anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 for the season or much less if you wanted the boat stored outside.
Pickup and delivery can potentially add hundreds, depending on how far the boat has to travel. Most companies will charge a flat rate, often around $125 to $200, another $8+ per foot to haul and another $5+ per mile to travel.
The boat winterization process
A professional will first start by cleaning the boat and applying a rust inhibitor on all of the metal items and your steering/control cables. He or she will also use what’s known as a “no damp” or some sort of mildew control bag and will apply it to any closed lockers and compartments.
Next, the fluid inside of the engine block, the manifolds, coolers and water pumps, all based on your engine specifications, will be drained. The gearcase, at this time, will be drained and filled with a gearcase lubricant. Lastly, as part of the draining process, the porta-potty and fresh water system will be flushed, drained and a freshwater antifreeze will be added to the water tank.
After the drainage is complete, the fuel tank will be filled and stabilized with an additive while running the motor for about 15 to 20 minutes to make sure the additive reaches into the fuel lines. Next, antifreeze will be pumped into the supply lines leading to the showers and sinks, followed by filling the manifold, block and the circulating pump with a propylene glycol antifreeze. The cooling system and the lower drive of the sterndrive will then be backwashed in order to clear any rust flakes, salt and/or sediment out of the system.
Next, the fuel-water separator will be replaced, the oil and filter will be changed, and all hoses and belts will be inspected, just like a regular routine maintenance procedure to make sure everything is in working order. At this time, the sterndrive gimbal bearing and engine’s coupler will be greased, followed by examining and lubricating the steering and trim.
At this time, he or she will then test the engine and use a fogging oil directly onto the cylinders until the engine stalls. Doing can help prevent the parts from any corrosion during the colder months.
Following this, the professional will then examine the entire unit for any signs of rust and/or will repaint the entire lower unit as a precaution to prevent any rust.
In the end, the battery, all interior cushions, inflatables and jumpseats will be removed and stored inside of a dry, cool place. All food, drinks and anything that could be ruined by moisture will be removed at this time as well.
When everything is said and done, the boat will be shrunk wrap if stored outside or will be wheeled into a temperature-controlled garage until it’s ready to hit the water again. If the boat is stored on a trailer, then the wheels will be blocked and the tie down straps will be loosened to reduce any stress placed on the hull.
Tips to know
This helpful Popular Mechanics article shows us how to winterize a boat.
Scaffolding Rental Cost
A scaffolding, often needed to raise a worker to reach higher levels, whether to paint or hang drywall, to name a few, can be costly for some, and in some cases, it doesn’t make sense to buy; rather, it makes much more sense to rent for a certain duration to save money.
If you have to work up high and a ladder will not cut it, then a scaffolding may be the answer as it will provide more of a stable work platform where you will be able to setup your tools and move around with ease.
How much does it cost to rent scaffolding?
The cost to rent a scaffolding, as with renting any sort of tool, will depend on where you rent it, what kind of scaffolding you need, your geographical region and how long you need it for. For a 24-hour daily rental, be prepared to spend about $50, whereas a monthly rental can be closer to $450.
Refer to our table below to see what you may pay for a complete set. If you want to piece it out, then you will want to refer to the next table.
| Duration | Average Rate |
|---|---|
| 4 Hours | $35 |
| Per Day | $50 |
| Per Week | $150 |
| Per Month | $435 |
At Home Depot, for example, when we checked out the prices online, a four-hour rental, which was the minimum, was $34, while a weekly rental was $144. This price was highly dependent on your local location, but for most of the locations we did look at, the prices were similar.
Aside from renting the scaffolding base setup, you may have to pay an additional fee for adjusting screws and base plates if you need to level the scaffold on uneven ground. Also, if you want to move the scaffold with ease, then you will need a caster as well, all of which can cost an additional $10+ per rental period on average. In the case of an unstable setup, tie-ins will be necessary to tie to the building to hold it in place without the worry of it falling apart.
If you’re interested in parting it out, instead of renting the entire scaffolding, then you may be looking at the following average costs:
| Parts | Estimate |
|---|---|
| 2 Frames 2 Braces and 4 Pins | $20 per week |
| Scaffolding Frame | $7 per week |
| Cross Brace | $3 per week (each) |
| Stacking Pins | $1 per week (each) |
| 7-foot Walkboards | $10 per week |
| 20-foot Walkboards | $75 per week |
| Caster | $9 per week |
| Leg Adjuster | $4 per week |
| Extension Side Bracket | $4 per week |
| Safety Rails | $5 per week (each) |
| Safety Posts | $2.50 per week (each) |
What’s included in the rental fee?
At most rental companies, the scaffolding will come in pieces and it will be up to you to put it together. Since most scaffoldings setups can be quite bulky, it’s often best if you have another person help you with the assembly process. This Family Handyman video, for instance, shows you how you can put it together and work with it safely. Unlike a ladder, the end product will create a safe and secure platform with guardrails so that you do not worry about falling while working. Like a ladder, you will be able to adjust the height as you please to reach the areas that are hard to reach by hand or with a ladder in general.
The standard setup consists of five-foot frames and cross braces to create a seven-foot scaffold. In addition to the base plates the guardrails, the main components will include the frames and cross braces that you will use in order to stack and combine them end by an end to create the scaffold. For most jobs, the average size is five by five feet, but other sizes are available based on the type of job and needs. As for the distance between the frames, this will be determined by the cross brace length, but seven and 10-feet are the most commonly rented sizes.
Tips to know
Before you rent your scaffolding, know how high you will need your scaffolding. In general, you will need a working height of about four to six feet above the plank. If you’re uncertain, a reputable rental company will be able to tell you how high your scaffolding should be.
Family Handyman recommends limiting the heights into two sections because if you go any further than this, you risk your stability. If your height reaches three times the minimum weight of the height, then you will need to tie the scaffolding to the structure you’re working with to provide the much-needed stability.
Do not try to save money by using your own wooden planks as they will not be as strong as the planks provided by the rental company. Scaffold planks are designed to cover the entire frame from side to side.
If the job is going to last longer than three months, then At-Pac.com recommends you consider purchasing as it will make the most sense.
Boat Survey Cost
Just like a home inspection, a boat buyer often hires a boat surveyor to assess the boat in question and let the buyer know of any problems he or she sees during the inspection.
While it’s completely optional, many consider as a peace of mind knowing they are purchasing a boat that is in working order and in great condition for years to come. But in the case of insurance and financing, it’s often required and is referred to as a pre-purchase survey.
How much does a boat survey cost?
The cost of a boat survey often depends on the length of the boat, and in most cases, surveyors will have a flat fee, but some may want to use an hourly rate as all boats are not created equally, even it was the same length. Either way, experts recommend you should budget about $18 to $25 per foot, but it could be higher in the case of a complex setup and/or larger-than-average boat. Other factors will include the professional you choose, the type of survey/inclusions needed, the age of the vessel, the materials, the systems on board the boat and your geographical location.
Additional costs can add to the estimates mentioned above as well. For example, if you needed the boat hauled out of the water in order for the surveyor to powerwash the bottom to inspect it, this could easily add another $15 to $25 per foot to the estimates above. Also, if you want a more in-depth engine assessment, it’s not uncommon to find surveyors add another $300 to $600 to the total costs as well and is often highly recommended in the case of a larger powerboat where the engine is a larger part of the value.
According to the official prices listed on MaritimeSurveyors.com, he noted his pre-purchase condition and valuation marine survey would cost $18 to $20 per foot while consulting can cost $100 per hour.
Another surveyor we found online, Latitude Marine, Inc.com, quoted $18 to $22 per foot for a pre-purchase survey, according to its official prices.
ALMSurvey.com, yet another company we found online, stated its minimum is $18 per foot, with a minimum survey fee of $395.
What is included in this price?
Most surveyors, at least a good one, will always ask that the boat is out of the water so that the hull and underwater gear can be checked. During the inspection, a surveyor will examine a boat in depth from the top to the bottom, looking at the hull and deck, often determining any soft or rotting spots by using a hammer and moisture meter.
Next, he or she will examine the health of all AC and DC electrical systems, the plumbing, deck systems, fuel/propane system, steering, controls and all safety equipment. During this time, a detailed report should be created according to the U.S. Coast Guard regulations, as well as American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. In some cases, inside the report, an experienced surveyor may include potential problems, even if not noticed, based on the history of the particular make/model.
If you consider an in-depth engine survey, then this typically includes an inspection of the operation and condition of the propulsion and generator engines, as well as the inspection of the controls, cooling, exhaust systems, engine mounts and electrical. The temperatures and samples of the oil levels should be tested, and again, an engine survey, being quite expensive, can be recommended if the engine in question is either expensive, complex and/or it appears as if the owner did not take care of it.
Upon completion, your surveyor should include a description of the boat as well as each system on board, any findings/recommendations/suggestions based on the importance of each one, photographs of anything in question, a statement in regards to the boat’s overall condition/health, and a fair market value based on the current market trends/data. All of this data, often compiled within 24-48 hours, is often available via email, fax and/or mail.
The additional costs to think about
In some cases, as mentioned earlier, a surveyor may want to either outsource an engine inspection or do it themselves if they have the right education. In this case, be prepared to budget another $300 to $600+, greatly depending on the type of engine, who you hire and where you live.
Most surveyors will travel a certain amount, often about 25 miles, but anything outside of this radius may incur an additional mileage charge.
Older vessels, live aboard vessels or those in very poor condition can often increase the costs by more than 30%.
An oil sample, which can then be forwarded to a lab, can cost an extra $50 r so.
A corrosion check for zinc and metallic underwater fittings can cost upwards of $100 per hour, depending on what he or she charges.
Other additional services, often not included in the estimates above, may include ultrasonic testing, moisture testing and/or other related non-destructive tests.
Tips to know
If you are a buyer, it’s always best to show up in person so that the surveyor can show you any findings in person. If they do not allow this, then it’s best to choose another professional.
To save money, ask the surveyor to check the parts in question first to see if it is in good shape. That way, if the parts were not in the condition they should be, you could skip out on the survey completely and avoid paying for a full inspection if the surveyor agreed to it.
In some states, some marinas require an up-to-date survey and/or liability insurance, which, if needed, requires an insurance survey as well.
Anyone can technically be a surveyor; however, in order to find a good one, MarineSurvey.org recommends looking for professionals who are part of an accredited organization and can be accepted by banks/insurance companies. Check credentials, find out what kind of training they have and see what makes them different from other surveyors.
Tribeca Rooftop Wedding Cost
The Tribeca Rooftop, located in the lower part of Manhattan, New York, in the heart of the Tribeca neighborhood, is a 15,000 square foot industrial penthouse with a 65-foot long skylight roof that looks over Tribeca, New York City and even the Hudson River, offering amazing panoramic views.
Located on the 12th floor on a cobblestone street inside of a 1920s printing press building, couples can light their event with the sunlight or even the stars. Inside, you will find a 1,400 square foot wooden dance floor that leads out to the 18,000 square foot landscaped roof deck from the mezzanine that’s located above the dance floor.
Tribeca Rooftop wedding cost
At the Tribeca Rooftop, there is no rental fee, but like venues that do not charge a rental fee, there will be a food and beverage minimum requirement. The prices, depending on the time of the year and the day of the week can range from $230 to $320 per person, with January, February, and March being “negotiable,” according to the venue.
| Friday (175 guest minimum) | $230/person |
| Saturday (200 guest minimum) | $320/person |
| Sunday (160 guest minimum) | $230/person |
NOTE: If the Sunday falls on a holiday weekend, then it will be billed as a Saturday evening rate.
HereComestheGuide.com recommends budgeting $170 and up per person, depending on the day of the week, time of the year and the guest count. The average event, according to their estimates, can range from $20,000 to $50,000 per event.
LongIslandCateringHalls.com states the price range per plate can cost anywhere from $140 to $250 per person.
What’s included in the fees above?
All food, beverages and a five-hour premium open bar, unless noted, is included in the costs. All tables, chairs, linens, tableware, candles, staff and stage lighting is included as well. The venue will include an events manager as well as a bridal attendant so that you do not have to hire your own wedding planner.
A sample setup, from what we researched online, includes a ceremony passed champagne and white wine; a cocktail hour with up to eight passed appetizers, cocktail stations and a choice of either smoked fish/caviar, a martini bar or a raw bar; and the sit-down dinner, depending on the season, can include an appetizer, two entree options; and lastly, the venue will make a customized cake as well. Kosher options are available, but it will cost an additional $80+ per person.
More inclusions can be included in the fees, depending on your customizations, but for the time being, the estimates above are going to be on the lower end without any additions. For example, you can add a sound package that includes a 10-speaker sound system, plus a microphone, for about $1,595, while a lighting package, including a lighting technician, can cost $1,495. Valet service, another optional service, is available for $2,500.
Tips to know
Don’t confuse the Tribeca Rooftop with the Tribeca 360°. The Rooftop is the main venue couples often use for weddings, while the 360° is located on a different floor and will have its own entrance. The 360° is considered to be a separate rental and will not be included with the rooftop unless otherwise stated.
The rooftop can accommodate up to 320 with a dance floor or 380 without.
There is a bridal suite in a separate room off of the lobby that includes a changing room, bathroom and a bar area.
All events have a maximum five-hour rental period and all events must end by 1:30 a.m.
Due to the unusual space, you will have to use the in-house lighting and audio company.
Rainbow Room Wedding Cost
The Rainbow Room, located on the 65th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, it is famous for its stunning views and legendary status.
This 1930s ballroom, being home to parties attended by Frank Sinatra to Keith Richards, is open to the public and offers 360-degree views of some of New York City’s finest landmarks, including Central Park, the downtown skyline and One World Trade Center.
Rainbow Room NYC wedding cost
The costs of the Rainbow Room, as with any venue, will depend on the time of year, the day of the week, your guest count and overall package inclusions. While the pricing estimates, when researching online and in person were quite limited, we did find out that the average price per person tends to be in the $300 to $425 per person range, with Saturday evening, as with any venue, being the highest in demand.
Martha Stewart Weddings states the wedding rates per person for five hours with passed champagne, hors-d’oeuvres, a premium bar, three-course dinner, Sylvia Weinstock wedding cake, and petits fours with coffee service can start at $400 per person.
The ceremony site fee, according to WeddingWire.com, ranges anywhere from $11,500 to $12,500, depending on the time of the year, whereas the reception site fee can be within the same range.
Tips to know
The venue highly recommends you book at least 12 months in advance, especially if you’re looking for a weekend date.
Guest minimums are said to be 150, while the venue can accommodate up to 250 guests with dancing or 300 without the dance floor.
Inside the room includes the one-of-a-kind rotating dance floor and windows dripping with 1,200 crystals. Pull back the curtains and you’re able to view the entire city skyline and much of what New York City has to offer with its unique 360-degree viewing setup.
You can view a sample wedding menu via the official venue website by clicking here. Via that brochure, you can also see a list of the “preferred vendors” you can work with, ranging from floral design to entertainment. If you wanted to use any other vendor not on the list, then it would require advanced approval by the venue.
Liberty Warehouse Wedding Cost
The Liberty Warehouse, located in the Red Hook area of Brooklyn, New York, was constructed in the pre-Civil War 1850s era.
Located on Pier 41 in the historic shipping yards, this venue offers views of both the New York Harbor, the Verrazano Bridge and the rare glimpse of the Statue of Liberty’s facing the venue in the background.
Liberty Warehouse wedding cost
The facility fee, according to sources online, does not exist, but there is an onsite ceremony fee of $1,500 if you choose to have your ceremony on site along with the reception. Instead, you will be paying a minimum food and beverage fee, per person, depending on the number of guests who plan on attending your wedding. The minimum requirement for a Friday or Sunday night wedding is said to be 150 guests, whereas a Saturday night wedding is 175 guests. With all of the food and beverages supplied by the Liberty Warehouse, with the exception of some cuisines, the prices range anywhere from $180 to $250+ per person. This range, from what we researched, will include the food, liquor, valet parking and washroom attendants. According to Woman Getting Married, however, the off-peak times, January, February, and March, can be as little as $165 to $200+ per person and the venue, during this time, is said to be much more flexible with the guest minimum count.
One reviewer on the official venue’s Yelp page said she was quoted $250 a guest after the service fee and gratuities, and this was for a Saturday wedding.
What’s included in the fees mentioned?
The fees, from sources online and not confirmed, will include the food, liquor, valet parking, all tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware and all flatware.
The additional fees to think about
Aside from price range mentioned above, additional fees can add to the prices above, increasing the costs. This includes a 20% administration charge, $7.50 per person service package which includes the valet and washroom attendants, a cake fee of about $10 per person, 8.875% tax and discretionary gratuity. All of this, when added to the price range above, can increase it by more than 30% in some cases.
The venue
The venue offers two large event rooms, namely the Harbor Room and the Governors room, with each equipped with larger windows facing the west for city/water views and two smaller rooms, specifically the Bridge Room, which is designed for indoor ceremony setups, smaller events and/or a cocktail hour. In every event room, there is a wood burning fireplace. To view the venue in action, Style Photo New York had multiple pictures of a wedding that was held here. You can also see pictures of the rooms via the official website.
For a sit-down dinner, they can accommodate up to 400 guests, while a standing cocktail party can accommodate up to 1,200.
Tips to know
The venue does not offer any outside catering, with the exception of kosher or ethnic Indian, but in this case, it needs to be done via an approved outside vendor.
According to many brides who did check out this venue mentioned that it’s best to reserve early as they fill up, especially on Saturdays, relatively fast.
