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Last updated: December 2024
Introduction
Look, we get it - privacy policies are usually a slog to read through.
But here's the thing: we're architects, not data brokers. Your information matters to us only because it helps us design better spaces for you. We're not in the business of selling your data or playing games with your privacy.
This policy explains what info we collect when you work with us or visit our site, what we do with it (spoiler: just architecture stuff), and how we keep it safe. We've tried to keep the legalese to a minimum, though our lawyers insisted on some of it staying in.
Raven Quintharos Architects operates from Vancouver, BC, and we're committed to complying with Canadian privacy laws including PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act).
What Information We Collect
Information You Give Us Directly
When you reach out to us or become a client, you'll share stuff like:
- Your name, email, phone number - the basics for getting in touch
- Your address and property details - kinda crucial when we're designing your space
- Project requirements, preferences, budget info - helps us understand what you're after
- Communication history - emails, notes from meetings, sketches you've sent us
- Payment and billing information - because yeah, we gotta get paid for the work
Stuff We Collect Automatically
When you browse our website, we pick up some technical data:
- IP address and browser type
- Pages you visit and how long you hang out on them
- Device info and screen size (helps us make the site work better for you)
- Referral sources - like if you found us through Google or another site
This is pretty standard web stuff that helps us improve the site experience.
Project-Related Information
Once we're working together, we'll also gather:
- Site photos and measurements
- Property documents and permits
- Your design preferences and lifestyle needs
- Feedback on drafts and revisions
How We Actually Use Your Info
We're not gonna beat around the bush - here's what we do with your data:
Design & Project Work
Creating your architectural plans, getting permits, coordinating with contractors - the core stuff we do.
Communication
Responding to your inquiries, sending project updates, scheduling meetings, you know - keeping in touch.
Business Operations
Invoicing, contract management, keeping our records straight for tax and legal purposes.
Improving Our Services
Learning from past projects, understanding what clients need, making our website better.
We might occasionally send you info about our services or industry insights, but only if you've said that's cool. You can opt out anytime - we won't be offended.
Your Privacy Rights
Under Canadian law (and just basic human decency), you've got rights when it comes to your personal info:
- Access: You can ask to see what info we have about you. We'll show you within a reasonable timeframe.
- Correction: If something's wrong or outdated, let us know and we'll fix it.
- Deletion: Want us to delete your data? We can do that, unless we're legally required to keep it (like for tax purposes).
- Portability: Need your data in a format you can take elsewhere? We'll provide it in a commonly used format.
- Withdraw Consent: Changed your mind about something you previously agreed to? That's totally fine.
To exercise any of these rights, just shoot us an email or give us a call. We'll respond within 30 days, usually much faster.
How We Protect Your Information
We take security seriously - probably more than we should admit to caring about spreadsheets and filing systems, but here we are.
Technical Measures
- Encrypted connections (SSL/TLS) for our website
- Secure, password-protected systems for storing client data
- Regular backups so nothing gets lost
- Firewalls and security software to keep the bad guys out
Physical & Administrative Measures
- Locked offices and secure file cabinets for paper documents
- Limited access - only team members who need certain info can get to it
- Regular training so everyone knows how to handle data properly
- Clear policies on data handling and retention
Real talk: No system is 100% bulletproof. We do our best to protect your info, but if something does happen, we'll let you know right away and work to fix it.
How Long We Keep Your Data
We don't hoard information forever. Here's generally how long we hold onto things:
| Type of Information | Retention Period |
|---|---|
| Project files and designs | 7 years after project completion (legal requirement for architects) |
| Financial records | 7 years (tax law requirement) |
| General correspondence | 3 years after last contact |
| Website analytics | 26 months, then automatically deleted |
| Marketing lists | Until you unsubscribe or we notice you're not engaging |
After these periods, we securely delete or anonymize the data so it can't be traced back to you.
Third-Party Links
Our website might link to other sites - suppliers, inspiration boards, industry resources, that kind of thing. Once you click through to another site, their privacy policy takes over, not ours.
We try to only link to reputable sites, but we can't control what they do with your data. It's worth reading their privacy policies too if you're concerned.
Children's Privacy
Our services aren't aimed at kids under 16, and we don't knowingly collect their personal information. If you're a parent and think we've accidentally collected info about your child, let us know and we'll delete it right away.
Changes to This Policy
We might update this policy from time to time - usually when laws change or we adjust how we do things. When we make significant changes, we'll let you know through email or a notice on our website.
The "last updated" date at the bottom will always reflect when we last made changes. It's worth checking back occasionally, though honestly, these don't change super often.
Questions? Concerns? Let's Talk
If you've got questions about this privacy policy, want to exercise your rights, or just want to chat about how we handle your data, we're here for you.
Get in Touch:
Email: info@ravenquintharos.info
Phone: (604) 555-0187
Mail: 1425 West Georgia Street, Suite 800, Vancouver, BC V6G 3A9
Privacy Officer: For specific privacy-related inquiries, mark your correspondence "Attention: Privacy Officer"
We aim to respond to all privacy inquiries within 30 days, though we usually get back to people much faster than that.
Filing a Complaint
If you're not happy with how we've handled your personal information, please tell us first so we can try to make it right. If that doesn't resolve things, you've got the right to file a complaint with:
Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
30 Victoria Street
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 1H3
Toll-free: 1-800-282-1376
Website: www.priv.gc.ca
Last Updated: December 2024
Effective Date: December 2024
This privacy policy applies to Raven Quintharos Architects and all services we provide. By using our website or services, you're agreeing to this policy. If you don't agree, that's okay - just don't use our services.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to explain anything about how we handle your data. Don't hesitate to reach out.
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