Terms and conditions

On the Day of the Appointment

• The horse must be in a stable or yard, clean, dry and ready for assessment at the scheduled appointment time.

• The client must provide all equipment usually used or ridden in (e.g. numnahs, girths, pads, bridles).

• A competent handler must be present with the horse at all times.

• Ridden assessments are required for all fitting appointments unless a static assessment has been booked for a specific reason. The usual rider should be present to allow for an accurate ridden assessment.

• Minor alterations or adjustments will be carried out on site, where possible. Some adjustments may require the saddle to be taken off site; clients will be informed in advance if this is necessary.

Fees and Payments

• Alterations and adjustments are charged separately from mileage and fitting fees.

• Checking a second saddle on the same horse is chargeable and must be booked in advance.

• Payment methods: cash, card, or BACS.

• Payment for new/second hand saddle purchases are due at the appointment.

• Payment for existing saddle check appointments are due within 5 days of the appointment date.

Cancellations and appointment changes: 

• Cancellations where necessary must be made at the earliest convivence or a cancelation fee may be instated if cancelations are made within 48 hours of the scheduled appointment 

• Changes to the appointment must be made in advance. 

Welfare, Safety & Disclosure

• Freeequine Saddle Fitting has the right to end the appointment or refuse to fit a saddle if:

  • The horse is unwell, unsound or exhibits behavioural issues,

  • The saddle or conditions are unsafe,

• The owner/rider must disclose any medical, behavioural, or physical issues the horse has at the time of booking.

• The client must inform Freeequine Saddle Fitting of any diseases or contagious illnesses present on the yard prior to the appointment.

Professional Conduct

• In accordance with the Society of Master Saddlers Code of Conduct, clients must inform me if another saddle fitter has assessed their saddle within the previous 6 months.

• With the client’s permission, I may contact the previous fitter to ensure transparency and avoid any conflict of interest.

Record Keeping & Data Protection

• Photos and templates may be taken for accurate record-keeping, client reference and social media.

• All information will be stored securely in line with the Data Protection Act 2018.

Saddle Purchase, Returns & Follow-Up

• It is recommended that newly purchased saddles are checked within 3 months to monitor the bedding-in period. This follow-up appointment is chargeable.

• Saddles purchased from Freeequine Saddle Fitting may be returned within 14 days of purchase.

• If a saddle is returned or exchanged:

  • Mileage fees will be deducted from the refund.

  • Saddles showing damage, excessive wear, or alterations will incur a 15% usage fee, deducted from the refund amount.