Terms of Service

Welcome to HomeDhek! These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of the HomeDhek platform, website, and mobile application (collectively, the "Platform"). By creating an account, browsing listings, or using any of our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, you must not use our Platform. Your continued use of HomeDhek after any changes to these Terms constitutes acceptance of those changes.

For the purposes of these Terms, the following definitions apply:

HomeDhek is an online marketplace that connects Property Owners with potential Tenants seeking PG accommodations near colleges and universities. Our Platform facilitates:

• Property listing and discovery services
• College directory and nearby accommodation search
• Saved properties functionality for bookmarking accommodations
• Communication between Property Owners and Tenants
• Booking and reservation management
• Payment processing and transaction support
• Review and rating systems
• Customer support and dispute resolution assistance

To use HomeDhek, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age or have parental/guardian consent
• Have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts
• Provide accurate and truthful information during registration
• Comply with all applicable local, state, and national laws
• Not be prohibited from using our services under applicable laws

For users under 18, parental or guardian supervision and consent are required. Parents/guardians are responsible for their minor's use of the Platform and any associated transactions.

5.1 Account Creation

To access certain features, you must create an account by providing accurate, complete, and current information. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials.

5.2 Account Security

• Use a strong, unique password for your account
• Do not share your login credentials with others
• Notify us immediately of any unauthorized access or security breaches
• You are responsible for all activities that occur under your account

5.3 Account Verification

We may require verification of your identity, contact information, or other details. Verified accounts receive enhanced features and increased trust from other users.

5.4 Account Suspension

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these Terms, engage in fraudulent activity, or pose risks to other users.

6.1 Listing Requirements

Property Owners must:

• Have legal authority to rent the property
• Provide accurate property descriptions, photos, and amenities
• Comply with all local housing laws and regulations
• Maintain valid licenses and permits required for rental properties
• Ensure properties meet basic safety and habitability standards

6.2 Listing Accuracy

All listings must contain truthful, accurate, and up-to-date information. Misleading or false information may result in listing removal and account suspension.

6.3 Availability & Pricing

Property Owners are responsible for maintaining accurate availability calendars and pricing. Last-minute cancellations or pricing discrepancies may result in penalties.

6.4 Communication & Response

Property Owners should respond to inquiries promptly and maintain professional communication with potential and current tenants.

7.1 Search & Inquiry

Tenants can search properties, view listings, browse our college directory, save favorite accommodations, and contact Property Owners through our Platform. Use search filters and read descriptions carefully before making inquiries.

7.1.1 Saved Properties

Registered users can save properties to their personal collection for easy access later. Saved properties are stored in your account and can be accessed through the saved properties page. You may remove saved properties at any time.

7.1.2 College Directory

Our college directory helps students find accommodations near their educational institutions. College information is provided for reference only and we do not guarantee accuracy of institutional details. Students should verify college information independently.

7.2 Booking Responsibility

Before booking, tenants should:

• Thoroughly review property details, photos, and amenities
• Communicate directly with Property Owners to clarify terms
• Visit the property if possible before committing
• Understand all costs, including deposits, utilities, and fees
• Read and agree to the specific rental terms

7.3 Payment Obligations

Tenants are responsible for timely payment of rent, deposits, and any additional charges as agreed with Property Owners.

7.4 Property Care

Tenants must treat properties with care, follow house rules, and respect other residents and neighbors.

8.1 Booking Process

Bookings are confirmed when both parties agree to terms and any required payments are processed. HomeDhek facilitates this process but is not a party to the rental agreement.

8.2 Payment Processing

• We use secure third-party payment processors
• Platform fees may apply to transactions
• Refund policies depend on specific property and booking terms
• We do not store payment card information on our servers

8.3 Cancellation Policy

Cancellation terms vary by property and are set by Property Owners. Review cancellation policies before booking. Platform fees may be non-refundable.

8.4 Disputes

Payment disputes should first be resolved between Property Owners and Tenants. HomeDhek may assist in mediation but is not responsible for transaction disputes.

9.1 Acceptable Use

Users must:

• Use the Platform only for legitimate accommodation purposes
• Provide truthful and accurate information
• Respect other users' privacy and rights
• Comply with all applicable laws and regulations
• Maintain professional and respectful communication

9.2 Prohibited Activities

Users must not:

• Post false, misleading, or fraudulent listings or information
• Engage in discriminatory practices based on race, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics
• Use the Platform for illegal activities or purposes
• Attempt to circumvent our security measures or payment systems
• Harass, threaten, or abuse other users
• Spam or send unsolicited communications
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to accounts or systems
• Violate intellectual property rights

9.3 Consequences

Violation of these conduct rules may result in warning, account suspension, permanent ban, or legal action as appropriate.

10.1 User Content

Users retain ownership of content they post but grant HomeDhek a license to use, display, and distribute such content on our Platform for service-related purposes.

10.2 Content Standards

All content must be:

• Accurate and truthful
• Non-offensive and appropriate
• Legally compliant
• Relevant to accommodation services
• Free of personal contact information (use Platform messaging)

10.3 Content Moderation

We reserve the right to review, edit, or remove content that violates these Terms or our community standards. We are not obligated to monitor all content but may do so at our discretion.

10.4 Copyright & Intellectual Property

Users must respect intellectual property rights. Do not post copyrighted images or content without permission. Report copyright infringement to our designated agent.

11.1 Privacy Policy

Our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms, explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. By using our Platform, you consent to our data practices as described in the Privacy Policy.

11.2 Data Security

We implement reasonable security measures to protect user data, but cannot guarantee absolute security. Users are responsible for protecting their own account credentials and personal information.

11.3 Data Sharing

We may share necessary information between Property Owners and Tenants to facilitate bookings and communications. We do not sell personal information to third parties.

11.4 Cookies & Tracking

Our Platform uses cookies and similar technologies to improve user experience, analyze usage patterns, and provide personalized content. Users can manage cookie preferences through their browser settings.

12.1 Platform Disclaimer

HomeDhek is a marketplace platform that connects users. We do not own, operate, manage, or control any properties listed on our Platform. We are not a party to rental agreements between Property Owners and Tenants.

12.2 Service Availability

We strive to maintain Platform availability but do not guarantee uninterrupted service. The Platform is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind, express or implied.

12.3 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, HomeDhek shall not be liable for:

• Property conditions, safety, or habitability
• Disputes between Property Owners and Tenants
• Loss of personal property or belongings
• Indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
• Actions or omissions of Platform users
• Technical issues or Platform downtime

12.4 Indemnification

Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless HomeDhek from claims, damages, or expenses arising from their use of the Platform or violation of these Terms.

13.1 Customer Support

For issues with the Platform or general inquiries, contact our customer support team. We strive to resolve most issues promptly and fairly.

13.2 User Disputes

Disputes between users (Property Owners and Tenants) should first be addressed directly between the parties. HomeDhek may provide mediation assistance but is not obligated to resolve user disputes.

13.3 Legal Disputes

Any legal disputes arising from these Terms shall be governed by the laws of [Your Jurisdiction] and resolved through binding arbitration or in the courts of [Your Jurisdiction].

13.4 Class Action Waiver

Users waive the right to participate in class action lawsuits against HomeDhek. Disputes must be resolved individually.

14.1 User Termination

Users may terminate their accounts at any time by contacting customer support or using account deletion features. Some data may be retained for legal or business purposes.

14.2 HomeDhek Termination

We may suspend or terminate user accounts for violations of these Terms, illegal activity, or at our discretion for business reasons. We will provide reasonable notice when possible.

14.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination, users lose access to their accounts and Platform features. Existing rental agreements between users continue independently of Platform access.

14.4 Survival

Sections regarding liability, indemnification, intellectual property, and dispute resolution survive account termination.

15.1 Modification Rights

HomeDhek reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. We will notify users of significant changes through Platform notifications, email, or website announcements.

15.2 Effective Date

Changes become effective 30 days after notification unless otherwise specified. Continued use of the Platform after changes constitutes acceptance of modified Terms.

15.3 User Options

If you do not agree with modified Terms, you may terminate your account before the changes take effect. Continued use implies acceptance of the new Terms.

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us: