Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using the website of DEFORM LTD ("we," "us," or "our"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our website or services.

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting to the website. Your continued use of the website constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

2. Use of Website

2.1 Eligibility

You must be at least 18 years old to use our website and engage our services. By using our services, you represent and warrant that you meet this eligibility requirement.

2.2 Permitted Use

You may use our website for lawful purposes only. You agree not to:

• Use the website in any way that violates applicable laws or regulations
• Attempt to gain unauthorised access to our systems or networks
• Interfere with or disrupt the website or servers
• Transmit any viruses, malware, or harmful code
• Collect or harvest personal information of other users
• Use the website for fraudulent purposes
• Copy, reproduce, or redistribute our design work, drawings, or content without permission

3. Architectural Services

3.1 Engagement Process

All architectural services are provided under a separate written agreement ("Appointment" or "Fee Proposal") that will be agreed upon before work commences. The terms of that agreement will supplement these Terms.

3.2 Initial Consultation

Initial consultations are provided free of charge and without obligation. Following the consultation, we will provide a detailed fee proposal outlining the scope of services, deliverables, and payment terms.

3.3 Appointment

Our appointment as your architect is confirmed upon:

• Your acceptance of our fee proposal in writing
• Receipt of any required deposit or initial payment
• Completion of any required conflict of interest checks

4. Fees and Payment

4.1 Fee Structure

Our fees are outlined in the fee proposal provided for your specific project. Fees may be calculated as:

• A percentage of construction cost
• Fixed lump sum for defined stages
• Hourly rates for additional services

4.2 Payment Terms

Payment is due according to the schedule outlined in our fee proposal. Unless otherwise agreed:

• An initial deposit is required before work commences
• Stage payments are due upon completion of each RIBA work stage
• Final payment is due upon completion of services
• Late payments may incur interest at 8% above Bank of England base rate

4.3 Additional Services

Any services requested beyond the agreed scope will be charged additionally. We will obtain your approval before undertaking additional work.

5. Intellectual Property

5.1 Ownership of Designs

All designs, drawings, specifications, and documents prepared by DEFORM LTD remain our intellectual property until all fees are paid in full. Upon full payment:

• You receive a licence to use the designs for the specific project only
• The designs may not be reused for other projects without our consent
• We retain the right to use the designs for portfolio, awards, and marketing purposes (subject to confidentiality)

5.2 Copyright

All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, and images, is the property of DEFORM LTD and is protected by copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without our express written permission.

6. Professional Indemnity

DEFORM LTD maintains professional indemnity insurance in accordance with ARB (Architects Registration Board) requirements. Our liability is limited as follows:

• Our total liability shall not exceed the total fees paid for the specific project
• We are not liable for consequential losses, loss of profit, or indirect damages
• We are not liable for defects arising from contractor workmanship or materials
• Claims must be notified in writing within 6 years of practical completion

7. Termination

7.1 By Client

You may terminate our appointment at any time by giving written notice. You will be liable for:

• All fees for work completed to date
• Costs incurred on your behalf
• A termination fee as outlined in the fee proposal (if applicable)

7.2 By DEFORM LTD

We may terminate our appointment if:

• Fees remain unpaid for more than 30 days after due date
• You breach these Terms or the appointment agreement
• Continuing would create a conflict of interest
• We are unable to obtain necessary instructions or cooperation

8. Confidentiality

We treat all client information as confidential and will not disclose it to third parties without consent, except:

• As necessary to perform our services (e.g., to consultants, contractors)
• As required by law or professional regulations
• For portfolio or marketing purposes (with identifying details removed unless agreed)

9. Planning and Regulations

While we will use reasonable skill and care in preparing planning applications and ensuring compliance with building regulations:

• We cannot guarantee planning permission will be granted
• Approval from third parties (e.g., freeholders, neighbours) is your responsibility
• Compliance with party wall legislation is your responsibility (we can advise)
• Changes to regulations during the project may affect costs and timelines

10. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising under these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

11. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites (e.g., professional bodies, planning portals). We are not responsible for the content or practices of these external sites.

12. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

13. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms, please contact us:

DEFORM LTD
Quadrant Court
44-45 Calthorpe Road
Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1TH
United Kingdom

Email: info@deformltd.co.uk
Phone: +44 121 123 4567
Company Registration: 14088486

14. Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any written appointment agreement, constitute the entire agreement between you and DEFORM LTD regarding the use of our website and services.