Contracts
DJ Booking Contract: What to Include
A solid DJ contract prevents disputes and protects your fee. Here's every clause to include — from set times to overtime — and how to get it signed fast.
DJ bookings come with specifics that other gigs don't — set times, equipment, power requirements and overtime. A clear contract protects your fee and keeps the night running smoothly. Here's what every DJ booking contract should include.
The essentials
- 1Both parties: your DJ business name and the client's details.
- 2Event details: date, venue, arrival/setup time, start and finish times.
- 3Services: the type of set, equipment provided, and any lighting or extras.
- 4Fee and deposit: total fee, deposit due on booking, and balance due date.
- 5Overtime policy: your hourly rate if the event runs late.
- 6Equipment and power: what you need from the venue (power, space, access).
- 7Cancellation policy: notice required and any non-refundable amounts.
- 8Liability and PAT/insurance: confirmation your equipment is tested and you're insured.
- 9Signatures from both parties.
Always include an overtime rate. Events often overrun, and a pre-agreed hourly rate avoids an awkward negotiation at midnight.
DJ-specific clauses worth adding
- Song requests and do-not-play list: how clients submit preferences.
- Setup and access: load-in time, parking and any venue restrictions.
- Power and space requirements: the minimum you need to perform safely.
- Backup plan: what happens if equipment fails (spare gear, etc.).
- Meals and breaks for longer events.
Deposits protect your date
A non-refundable deposit secures the booking and compensates you for turning away other work. A typical structure is 25-50% on booking with the balance due before the event. Make the amount and refund terms unambiguous.
Get it signed quickly
The longer a contract sits unsigned, the more likely a client keeps shopping around. Sending the contract for a legally-binding e-signature — with the deposit pay link attached — lets clients confirm in minutes from their phone.
With PerformerDesk you can store a branded DJ contract template, send it the moment a client says yes, attach the deposit link, and get notified instantly when it's signed.
Frequently asked questions
What should a DJ contract include?
The event date and times, services and equipment, the fee and deposit, an overtime rate, cancellation terms, power and space requirements, insurance details, and signatures from both parties.
Should a DJ contract include an overtime rate?
Yes. Events frequently overrun. A pre-agreed hourly overtime rate avoids disputes and makes sure you're paid fairly if the party keeps going.
How do I get a DJ contract signed quickly?
Send it for an electronic signature with the deposit pay link attached, so the client can sign and pay from their phone in minutes.
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