Middlebury Studio School

MONTH-TO-MONTH ART STUDIO RENTAL AGREEMENT

This Agreement is made and entered into by and between Middlebury Studio School (hereinafter referred to as "MSS") and the undersigned renter (hereinafter referred to as "the Artist") for the rental of a private art studio located at Middlebury Studio School in the State of Vermont, on the following terms and conditions:

1. Term and Rent

This is a month-to-month rental agreement commencing on the first day of the month for which rent is paid. The Artist agrees to pay rent in the amount of $200.00 per month, due in full on or before the first day of each month. Payment shall be made either by check or through MSS's registration system.

There is no security deposit required. Failure to pay rent in a timely manner may result in termination of this agreement.

2. Studio Access and Key

The Artist shall receive a key to their designated private studio space and a door code to access the main entrance of the building. The Artist agrees not to share the building door code with any third party. The key must be returned to MSS at the end of the rental period. Failure to return the key may result in additional charges.

The Artist shall have 24/7 access to their rented studio for the duration of the paid rental period.

3. Condition of Premises

The Artist agrees to maintain the studio in good, clean condition and return it in the same condition it was received, reasonable wear and tear excepted. If the studio is not returned in satisfactory condition, the Artist agrees to pay a $30 cleaning fee.

The Artist agrees to turn off heating, air conditioning, and close all windows when not occupying the studio. During very hot or cold seasons, MSS may leave AC or heat on to maintain a comfortable temperature or ask the Artist to simply turn the heat down when they are away.

4. Access by MSS

MSS retains the right to enter the Artist’s studio at any time and without prior notice, but will do so only as reasonably necessary, including but not limited to: ensuring the space is secure, closing open windows, adjusting HVAC systems, or granting access to contractors or service personnel.

5. Use of Premises

The studio is to be used solely for artistic work. The Artist shall not smoke, consume alcohol, or use or possess illegal drugs anywhere on MSS premises, including the studios, common areas, parking lot, and grounds.

No open flames, including candles or space heaters, are permitted. Use of any potentially hazardous materials (e.g., solvents, sprays, resins) must be approved in advance by MSS.

6. Amenities

MSS agrees to provide:

• A private, lockable studio space;
• Internet access;
• Heating and air conditioning;
• Shared access to a kitchenette and a sink area designated for use by all renting artists in the upstairs area.

7. Termination

The Artist may terminate this agreement or cancel their registration for the space within 5 days of the rental period. If the Artist cancels their registration within 5 days of the start of the month or during their rental period and a new renter is not secured by MSS, the Artist must still pay the month’s rent in full. MSS reserves the right to terminate this rental agreement at any time and has the right to ask the Artist to vacate the space if their behavior is deemed inappropriate for the community space. Failure to vacate at the end of the rental period may result in additional charges.

8. Liability and Indemnification

The Artist assumes all risk of loss or damage to personal property and artwork stored or created in the rented studio. MSS shall not be liable for any loss, theft, or damage, except where caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

The Artist agrees to indemnify and hold harmless MSS, its employees, and agents from any claims arising out of the Artist’s use of the premises, except to the extent caused by MSS’s negligence.

9. Miscellaneous

This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Vermont. This document constitutes the entire agreement between MSS and the Artist and supersedes any prior understandings or agreements, whether oral or written.