Grim’s Dyke has been a much sought-after filming location for the last 40 plus years. Known for its Gothic-influenced Victorian architecture, typical English interior décor and 40 acres of beautiful garden and woodland, it’s little wonder film and TV production companies want to take advantage – but could your home be used as a film location too?

Renting your property out as a filming location, can be a lucrative move – and it doesn’t have to be a glamorous and immaculate location either! The most important aspects of any location sought out by the scouts include:

• Plenty of space (as you could have a 40-strong film crew on site)
• Unusual locations and unique appeal
• State-the-art kitchens (great for cookery location shots etc.)
• Large rooms with plenty of natural light and flexibility
• Off-street parking (the more the better!)

Whilst some film companies prefer locations within the M25, this really depends on the needs of the project. And talking of projects, we don’t just mean films. Locations are needed for TV series, commercials and photo shoots, as it’s often cheaper for them to find an appropriate location rather than build a purpose-made set.

If you’re thinking of putting your property on the books, here’s some guidelines to bear in mind:

• Register with a reputable company such as JJ Locations, The Collective and Shoot Factory or a company local to you.
• Ensure your contract states for them to ‘leave as they found it’.
• You’ll need to leave the property for the time it is being used – and this can be for weeks at a time.
• You’ll need to pay tax on your earnings.
• Check your insurance will cover you for accidental damage – as the filming company insurance will cover public liability.

Finally, if you’re hoping to rub shoulders with the stars, you could end up disappointed. Often they’re far too busy to stop and chat, but on the plus side, you may be watching TV one day and recognise a famous face or two in your home!