Movie Rental Rights

Movie rentals are convenient, but there are rules to follow.

As with all things, there are rules governing the way you can use a rented movie, and sometimes, these rules may not be as clear as you think. Nearly everything regarding the movie's use is covered by a contract between you and the store.

Personal Viewing

Rental stores require you to agree to a rental contract before you can leave the store. This agreement usually states that you are permitted to view this movie only by yourself or with those you live with. Sometimes, these agreements can give a specific maximum number of people who can watch the video with you.

Public Viewing

It is a violation of copyright law in the United States and Canada to show the movie publicly (e.g., in a theater, to a group for admission, etc.). The rental agreement may state you cannot loan the movie to friends.

Copying and Recording

The rental agreement will state that you cannot reproduce the movie in any way, including recording the file onto a computer or re-recording onto another medium. This is a violation of copyright law in most countries.

Respect of Property

The rental agreement will include a clause that requires you to maintain the physical disc while it is in your possession. The disc must be in usable condition when it is returned or you will likely be charged for a replacement.

References

• Netflix: Terms of Use
• BLOCKBUSTER: Terms and Conditions of Use

Resources

• Invoice Template: Examples of Rental Agreement