RENTALS
INTERESTED IN RENTING THE CUSTOM HOUSE?
Our building is fully wheelchair accessible, and there is plenty of free street parking. If you are interested in booking our space, please read the What Do I Need to Know? information below. Our rates can be downloaded here. If you have questions about our facility, please contact us.
- WEDDINGS
- FILM AND TELEVISION
The historic Custom House is an ideal location for a wedding ceremony or reception. Either in the Main Gallery or in the backyard, both spaces can be enhanced to suit a variety of wedding styles. Availability is limited to the following dates for 2025:
If you are interested in any of these dates, contact us right away! Our space goes fast!
The Custom House is an ideal location for historical and period pieces. We have many unique features and can accommodate different types of shoots. If you are interested in filming at WAHC, please download and fill out the Film Rental Application form and return to us by email or fax.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Our Spaces
Main Gallery
Our Main Gallery space features high ceilings, 3 large, beautiful arched windows and backyard access. The Main Gallery houses our contemporary art exhibits, which adds an extra touch of uniqueness to any event or meeting. Theatre style capacity is approximately 124 people and table configurations are 98 people. For any event with a liquor permit (SOP) regardless of set-up, the capacity is maximum 85.
Main Gallery Floorplan and Main Floor Plan
Small Meeting Room
Our smaller meeting room comes equipped with a large meeting table and is suitable for a maximum of 12-15 people seated. It offers lots of natural light with two large arched windows.
Small Meeting Room Floorplan
Backyard
We also have a beautiful, landscaped backyard that is suitable for summer events such as receptions, parties and weddings. The backyard can be configured in many different ways and can accommodate anywhere from 150-250 people. Please contact us to find out more.
Backyard Floorplan
Food and third-party services
Third party service providers (entertainers, caterers, party rental equipment, etc.) must be approved by the facility at the time of booking confirmation and additional requirements may apply including proof of commercial insurance at the discretion of WAHC.
Any sales and/or catering and food distribution must be approved by the Facilities Coordinator in advance of the event.
Food distribution must follow the City of Hamilton Health department guidelines. Additionally, under NO circumstances does WAHC allow food preparation or cooking on site. All caterers are required to bring all food prepared and cooked or alternatively bring a mobile kitchen.
Licensed events
All licensed functions are required to provide proof of:
- A valid liquor license – Special Occasions Permit (SOP)
- Bartenders (ratio 1:100 patrons) with a Smart Serve certificate
Set Up and Signage
Decorating and takedown must be included in your booking time request. Caterers must remove all food waste, dirty dishes, cutlery etc. by the end of the booking time. Any other external rentals stored on site will be charged a storage fee – please refer to the rental rates sheet.
All renters must adhere to the Decoration Do’s and Don’t’s for information on what is allowed with regards to decorating our space.
The Rentals Info Sheet is to be completed and returned to the Facilities Coordinator a minimum of four weeks prior to the rental.
AV Equipment
Renters may bring their own equipment, as WAHC has a simple PA system suitable for meetings only.
Property and Contents
The renter must understand that the primary purpose of the Custom House is as a community museum, and as such the space and its contents must be considered when setting up, planning décor, etc. The renter is responsible for any damage to the building and its contents, as well as the behaviour of its guests.
The renter is responsible for all clean-up, including putting garbage, food waste, recycling etc into the appropriate receptacles. Failure to do so will result in a building cleaning fee charge (refer to additional charges in the Rental Rates sheet). The building should be left as it was received.
Cancellation Policy and Booking Confirmation
Bookings are confirmed once a 50% deposit has been received, based on the in and out times submitted.
Cancellations less than 14 days’ notice will forfeit the 50% deposit. Cancellations made up to 14 days before the booking will be refunded the deposit minus a $150 administration fee held back.
WAHC reserves the right, through its agent or agents to cancel a rental agreement, close any function for failure to observe all conditions of the permit, and/or retain full or portions of the deposit.
COVID Protocols
All renters and their guests must abide by WAHC’s COVID protocols listed below:
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Masks are optional for private events. Masks are mandatory for events rentals that take place during WAHC’s public hours of operation.
If you are interested in booking our space, please complete our Booking Form and we will get in touch with you to discuss your event and dates. If you have questions about our facility, please contact us.