Starbright Cinema – Refund & Cancellation Policy

Date: 15/12/2025

Starbright Cinema
Website: www.startbrightevents.co.za
Contact Number: +27 (0) 71 060 3044

1. Purpose and Legal Framework

This Refund and Cancellation Policy governs the terms under which refunds, credits, or rescheduling may be granted for the hire of outdoor and indoor cinema equipment and related services provided by Starbright Cinema.

This policy is aligned with the South African Consumer Protection Act, 68 of 2008 (CPA), specifically Sections 17, 19, and 20, and is intended to balance consumer rights with the legitimate operational costs incurred by the service provider.

2. Booking Confirmation and Deposits

• A booking is confirmed only once written acceptance (quotation, invoice, or agreement) and a deposit have been received.

• The standard deposit is 30–50% of the total hire fee, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

• In accordance with the CPA, deposits are used to secure the event date, allocate equipment, schedule staff, and cover preparatory costs.

3. Consumer Right to Cancel (CPA Section 17)

Consumers may cancel a booking subject to reasonable cancellation fees, as permitted under the CPA. Cancellation fees reflect actual costs incurred and the likelihood of securing a replacement booking. All cancellations must be submitted in writing.

3.1 Cancellation More Than 14 Days Before the Event

• The client may cancel the booking.

• All amounts paid excluding the deposit will be refunded.

• The deposit may be partially or fully retained to cover administrative and preparation costs, as allowed by the CPA.

3.2 Cancellation 7–14 Days Before the Event

• The deposit is non-refundable.

• Up to 50% of any additional amounts paid may be refunded, at Starbright Cinema’s discretion, based on costs already incurred.

3.3 Cancellation Less Than 7 Days Before the Event

• No refunds will be issued.

• This reflects confirmed staffing, transport, equipment preparation, and lost opportunity to rebook the date.

4. Client-Initiated Rescheduling

• Rescheduling requests must be made in writing.

• More than 7 days’ notice: One reschedule will be permitted at no additional charge, subject to availability.

• Less than 7 days’ notice: An additional fee may apply, or the deposit may be forfeited.

• If Starbright Cinema is unavailable on the new date, the cancellation terms above will apply.

5. Weather-Related Conditions (Outdoor Cinema Events)

• Outdoor cinema services are inherently weather dependent.

• Where adverse weather conditions (including rain, excessive wind, or unsafe conditions) are forecast or occur:

  • The event may be rescheduled to an alternative date at no additional charge, subject to availability; or

  • Where feasible, the event may be converted to an indoor setup.

• In line with the CPA, refunds due to weather-related cancellations are not guaranteed, as costs are incurred in advance. Each case will be assessed fairly and reasonably.

6. Service Provider Cancellation or Failure to Perform

If Starbright Cinema is unable to deliver the service due to equipment failure, staff unavailability, or other factors within its control:

• The client will be entitled to a full refund of all amounts paid, or

• The option to reschedule the event at no additional cost.

Starbright Cinema will not be liable for consequential or indirect losses suffered by the client beyond the refund provided, as permitted by law.

7. Early Termination of an Event

• If an event is terminated early due to circumstances beyond Starbright Cinema’s control (including weather, power failure, venue restrictions, or client actions), no refunds will be issued.

• If early termination is directly caused by Starbright Cinema, a partial refund or credit may be considered, assessed on a pro-rata basis.

8. Refund Processing

• Approved refunds will be processed within 7–10 business days.

• Refunds will be made using the original payment method, unless otherwise agreed.

9. Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for failure or delay in performance caused by events beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, government regulations, or public safety restrictions.

In such circumstances, rescheduling will be prioritised over refunds, in compliance with the CPA’s fairness principles.

10. Acceptance of Policy

By confirming a booking and making payment, the client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to this Refund and Cancellation Policy.

This policy is subject to change. The version in force at the time of booking shall apply..