Jibcam,

I don't do that much rental of my gear without me, but when I do, I have the company (or operator) that is renting sign a rental contract. This basically takes my company out of the mix from the production and also states payment agreements and liability issues. I then have them provide me with a certificate of insurance (provided by their insurance company) naming my company loss payee if any claims are to be made. On that certificate it also shows that they have liability coverage and for how much. You can't be too careful with people today. If they damage your gear, or more importantly, hurt someone and you haven't covered your butt, you could lose it all!!