SubscribeBeware Cowboys!
DJmark assess quality standards for the UK mobile disco industry.
Like any other industry, there are plenty of so-called "Cowboy" DJ operators who often operate outside the law using suspect equipment, illegally-obtained copied or downloaded music, and without insurance or electrical safety checks.
Sometimes "Cowboys" are legitimate businesses who cut one corner too many, impacting their customers on what is usually one of the most important days of their lives.
We regularly hear complaints from dissatisfied customers (you'll find lots of examples by searching 'cowboy' on public forums such as MDD or high-profile cases such as This One covered by BBC's Watchdog programme recently).
Whilst we cannot GUARANTEE that an operator you found on DJmark will deliver exactly as promised, we feel confident that our validation procedure weeds out the least desirable elements taking much of the guesswork out of your decision. Take a look at our Ratings page to see the various hurdles our members have to go through to be accredited.
A Few Tips
A registered business will have no problem accepting payment by cheque in advance of the party.
- Beware of operators who insist on cash payment and aren't willing to accept other methods
- Don't expect to pay 100% upfront. 30-50% is the maximum you should be willing to part with as a deposit
- Be clear about the difference between a Deposit (which is refundable) and a Booking Fee (which might not be)
- Also be clear about the operator's cancellation policy as these vary significantly
Ask about PLI (Public Liability Insurance)
- This protects you and your guests in the event of an accident involving your DJ or their equipment
- It also covers you in case the DJ or their staff cause any damage at the venue
- Many venues (especially hotel chains and public-owned buildings) insist on a minimum level of PLI cover. If your DJ arrives without proof, they might be sent away
Ask about PAT (Portable Appliance Testing)
- These electrical safety checks are not legally required, but it is accepted best practice that portable equipment should be tested at least annually to ensure it is not an electrical or fire hazard
- Many venues (especially hotel chains and public-owned buildings) insist on proof of PAT before allowing DJs to install their equipment. Without proof, your DJ might be sent away
Ask about the ProDub Licence
- This licence protects copyright by allowing your DJ to transfer music from one format to another - for example copying original CDs to mp3 files
- DJs exclusively using original media (CDs/Vinyl etc.) are EXEMPT from this licence
- The scheme was introduced in July 2008 after many years of debate and will be increasingly policed
- Venues will be required to check licence documentation as a requirement of their own public performance licence. Without suitable proof, your DJ might be sent away
