Renting chair rules

[Poppyisland]

Hi,
One of my stylists (who rents a chair) is leaving at the end of the week.
I’m going to be looking for a stylist to fill the chair but I’m going to be stricter. With the girls who work and rent a chair I let them have time off without paying the rent (they’ve worked with me for years and in no way take advantage) we all became friends.
I also let them have a key so they can open early if they have a wedding to do or if they’re working over.
This has always worked well and we all get on well and I’d trust them with anything. And they have been good to me - ie 1 bought a microwave for the salon, another bought personalised mugs etc.
But as costs of everything are going up and at the end of the day it’s a business, I need to make sure I’m getting max profit.
I was thinking of letting them have 4 weeks a year were they don’t have to pay, any other time off is paid for.
I’m just not sure what to put in a contract for the next one without it being off putting it unrealistic.
Any help with what people think is reasonable?

 

[AcidPerm]

First rule of business, keep it professional and don’t blur the boundaries.
All chair renters should have their own key to the premises, regardless.
Most salons don’t offer rent free weeks because it’s a landlord/tenant relationship not employer/employee. Those that do tend to make it a 50 week year instead of 52 weeks.

If you start bringing in additional ‘rules’ you might find HMRC declare it’s a sham employment arrangement so keep to the recommendations HMRC advise and consider joining the NHF for additional advice and support. They provide chair rental contracts.
https://www.nhf.info/home/