RTO Contracts: Protecting Your Shed Business from Legal Pitfalls

Send us Fan MailEver wonder what happens when a rent-to-own customer stops paying? Or what legal pitfalls could be lurking in your contracts? The shed industry faces unique legal challenges that can make or break your business.Attorney Nick Garrard joins us to share his 12 years of legal expertise in the rent-to-own shed industry. What began as a single case in 2012 has grown into a specialized practice serving shed businesses across the country. Nick breaks down the most common legal issues he encounters—from the dangers of "bootleg contracts" to the murky concept of "breach of peace" during repossessions.We dive deep into the evolving role of the National Shed Rental Association (NSRA), which is transforming from simply hosting an annual conference to becoming a year-round membership organization with educational resources, legal guidance, and industry standards. This change represents the shed industry's maturation and growing need for professional development and accountability.Perhaps most valuable is Nick's practical advice on state-specific contract requirements. Using a contract designed for one state in another jurisdiction could invalidate your entire agreement—potentially forcing you to surrender ownership of sheds to customers who've barely paid. Similarly, Nick explains why referring to rent-to-own transactions as "financing" creates serious legal complications during bankruptcy proceedings.Whether you're a manufacturer, dealer, or rent-to-own provider, this episode delivers crucial insights to protect your business from costly legal mistakes. Join us in Knoxville this September for the NSRA conference to learn more, or connect directly with Nick at WilkinsPatterson.com for specialized guidance.For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected] episodes Sponsors:Studio Sponsor: Shed ProShed HubShed SuiteShed Geek MarketingIdentigrowCAL