Terms & Policies
SMS Terms For the United States
Please view the SMS terms for the United States below.
By requesting, joining, agreeing to, enrolling in, signing up for, acknowledging, or otherwise consenting to receive one or more text messages from Houfy ("Opt In"), you agree to these SMS Terms and the handling of your personal information as described in the Houfy Privacy Policy. Message and data rates may apply. You also agree to resolve disputes with Houfy as described in our Terms of Service.
Houfy will use reasonable commercial efforts to deliver automated text messages to the mobile number you provide. However, we are not responsible for any delays or undelivered messages.
By Opting In to Receive Text Messages:
- Authorization:You expressly authorize Houfy to use autodialer or non-autodialer technology to send text messages to the mobile phone number associated with your Opt In.
These messages may include promotional content. You do not have to Opt In or agree to Opt In as a condition of purchase. - Consent to Electronic Documentation:You consent to the use of an electronic record to document your Opt In.
To withdraw that consent, contact us via the methods described in the Contact Us section of the Terms of Service, or manage your notification preferences in your account settings.
Withdrawing consent may limit certain features of our service. - Ownership Confirmation:You confirm that you are the current subscriber to the Opted In mobile phone number or that you are the customary user of that number on a family or business plan and that you are authorized to Opt In.
Contact Information:
- For any questions or concerns about these SMS Terms, you can contact us via the Contact Us page.
Terms of Service
Thanks for using Houfy. Our mission is save money for hosts and guests.
Updated Dec 06, 2023
I. Contract
These Terms of Service (“Terms”) constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Houfy Corporation (hereinafter referred to as “Houfy”). By accessing, registering, or using Houfy's sites, services, and content (collectively, “Services”), you acknowledge and agree to these Terms.
By clicking “Join Now”, “Join Houfy”, “Sign Up” or similar, or by registering, accessing, or using our Services, you are confirming your acceptance of these Terms and entering into a legally binding contract with Houfy. This applies even if you are using our Services on behalf of a company. If you do not agree to these Terms, do not click “Join Now” (or similar), and refrain from accessing or using our Services. You may terminate this contract at any time by closing your account and ceasing to access or use our Services.
Your use of Houfy signifies your agreement to these Terms. If you disagree with any part of the Terms, you should discontinue your use of Houfy.
These Terms of Service, along with all policies and additional terms posted on our sites, applications, tools, and services, dictate the conditions under which Houfy provides you access to our Services. An overview of our policies is available here. By accessing or using our Services, you agree to comply with all the terms outlined in these Terms of Service.
Contractual Entity:
- HOUFY Corporation, PO Box 38742, Colorado Springs, CO 80937, USA
Data Privacy: As a Member of our Services, the collection, use, and sharing of your personal data are governed by our Privacy Policy (which includes our Cookie Policy and other documents referenced therein) and any updates to these documents.
1.1 Members (“Hosts”, “Traveler(s)”) and Users
Membership and Visitor Access: Upon registering and joining Houfy Services, you attain the status of a "Member." For those who opt not to register, limited access to certain features of our Services is available as a “User.”
As a Member, you gain access to a broader range of features and capabilities within the Houfy platform, subject to the terms and conditions of these Terms of Service. Visitors, while able to access certain functionalities, may not have full access to all the services and features offered by Houfy.
It's important to understand that different levels of engagement with our Services - whether as a Member or Visitor - entail different rights and responsibilities under these Terms of Service. We encourage all users to familiarize themselves with these terms to fully understand their implications.
Houfy provides an on-line platform to allow property owners and managers who advertise on the Houfy Platform (each, a “host”) to offer for rent in a variety of pricing formats, a specific vacation or short-term rental property (a “Listing”) to potential renters or renters (each, a “traveler” and, collectively with a host, the “members”).
“Hosts“ may also include property owners or managers who originally advertised their properties on another website and their listings have been redistributed on the Houfy Platform. We also may offer online booking or other tools or services to allow members to communicate with each other and enter into rental agreements or other transactions.
1.2 Changes to the Terms
Modification of Terms: Houfy reserves the right to modify this Contract, our Privacy Policy, and our Cookies Policy at any time. Changes will be made with due consideration to ensure continued alignment with our business practices, legal requirements, and user needs.
Notification of Material Changes: When we make material changes to these documents, we will provide advance notice before the changes become effective. This notification may be provided through our Services, or via other means of communication like email, to give you the opportunity to review the changes before they are implemented.
Acceptance of Changes: Your continued use of Houfy's Services on or after the effective date of these changes signifies your acceptance of the new Terms. If you do not agree with the changes, you have the option to delete your account before the effective date. Failure to delete your account will be regarded as acceptance of the new Terms.
Responsibility to Stay Informed: We encourage you to periodically review our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Cookies Policy to stay informed of any updates. Your continued use of Houfy after any such modifications implies acceptance of the revised terms and conditions.
1.3 Houfy’s Role as a Venue
Houfy operates as a venue connecting hosts and travelers. We provide a platform for hosts to list, discover, and book vacation rental properties. It's important to understand that Houfy is not a party to any rental agreements or transactions that occur between members of our services. This includes, but is not limited to, any agreements related to property rentals, services, or ancillary products.
1.3.2 Legal and Regulatory Compliance for Hosts
Hosts on Houfy agree to comply with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations in their use of Houfy services and in conducting their rental business. This includes, but is not limited to, laws related to taxes, credit cards, data and privacy, permits, licensing, zoning, safety compliance, and anti-discrimination and fair housing laws.
1.3.3 Cooperation with Legal Authorities
While Houfy is not involved in rental transactions and does not assume liability for legal or regulatory compliance of listings, there may be situations where we are legally required to provide information related to listings to comply with governmental investigations, litigation, or administrative proceedings. Houfy reserves the right to comply with such legal obligations at its sole discretion.
1.3.4 Payment Information Handling by Hosts
Hosts accepting payment information from travelers are responsible for handling and safeguarding this information in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory standards and best practices.
1.3.5 Travel Risks and Research
Travelers are advised to conduct thorough research on their intended destinations, including reviewing travel advisories and warnings issued by governmental bodies, before booking. Houfy does not assume liability for incidents occurring during travel.
1.3.6 No Liability for Fraudulent or Illegal Activities
Houfy takes certain measures to assist members in avoiding fraudulent or illegal activities. However, we do not assume any liability or obligation to take such measures. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, or impact of any warnings or messages provided to members about such activities.
1.4 Bookings on Houfy
Houfy provides a platform for hosts to list properties and for travelers to discover and book these properties. It is essential to understand that any booking made through Houfy constitutes a direct contract between the host and the traveler. Houfy is not a party to such contracts, nor does it act as an intermediary in the booking process.
1.4.1 Responsibilities in Booking Transactions
When a traveler books a listing on Houfy, they enter into an agreement directly with the host. This includes agreeing to the host's terms, such as the price, applicable fees (which may include cleaning fees, security deposits, etc.), taxes, cancellation policies, and any other terms specified by the host in their listing or during the booking process.
1.4.2 Due Diligence by Members
Members are responsible for conducting their due diligence before entering into a booking agreement. This includes reviewing the listing details, understanding the host's policies, and ensuring that the listing meets their needs and expectations. Houfy provides tools and information to assist in this process, but the ultimate responsibility for the decision to book a listing lies with the traveler.
1.4.3 Tools for Contract Creation
Houfy may provide tools or templates to assist hosts in creating their rental contracts or terms. However, the use of these tools does not imply Houfy's participation, endorsement, or liability in any booking contracts formed between hosts and travelers. Hosts and travelers are advised to seek independent legal advice to ensure their contracts are compliant with applicable laws and regulations.
1.4.4 No Liability for Booking Transactions
Houfy assumes no liability for any aspect of the booking transactions between hosts and travelers. This includes, but is not limited to, the accuracy of listings, the quality or condition of the properties, compliance with laws, or the conduct of members during their stay.
1.5 Cancellations and Refunds
General Policy: In general, if a guest cancels a reservation, the refund amount is determined by the host's cancellation policy. Houfy does not set these policies nor mediates in the enforcement or adjustment of these policies.
Extenuating Circumstances: Houfy acknowledges that there may be extenuating circumstances that lead to cancellation. While Houfy does not intervene in such situations, we advise hosts and guests to communicate clearly and make arrangements that are mutually agreeable.
Travel Issues: Houfy is not responsible for resolving travel issues such as cancellations by hosts or issues encountered during a stay. We encourage members to resolve such issues amongst themselves, and recommend guests to review the host's policies before booking.
1.6 Booking Modifications
Responsibility for Modifications: Guests and hosts are solely responsible for any booking modifications they agree upon. This includes understanding and agreeing to pay any additional amounts, fees, or taxes associated with these modifications. Houfy does not facilitate these modifications and is not responsible for the terms or the execution of such agreements.
1.7 Assumption of Risk
Acknowledgement of Risks
- User Responsibility: By using the Houfy platform, you acknowledge that various activities, including stays at accommodations and interactions with other members, carry inherent risks. You agree that, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, you assume the entire risk arising out of your access to and use of the Houfy Platform and any content, including but not limited to any interaction with other members, whether in person or online.
- Investigation and Suitability: It is your responsibility to investigate and determine the suitability of any listings or services offered by hosts. This may include risks of illness, bodily injury, disability, or death associated with certain host services. You agree to assume these risks voluntarily and willfully by choosing to participate in such services.
Houfy’s Role and Limitations
- Platform Provider Only: Houfy serves solely as a platform provider and does not own, control, offer, or manage any listings. We do not act as a travel agency for any member.
- Non-Party to Agreements: Houfy is not a party to any rental agreements, transactions, or other contracts entered into directly between hosts and travelers. We do not function as a real estate broker, travel agency, or insurer.
II. Obligations
2.1 Eligibility
Minimum Age Requirement: The Services provided by Houfy are strictly intended for users who are 18 years of age or older. This age requirement ensures compliance with global legal standards and safeguards the integrity of our platform.
User Conditions: To access and utilize Houfy's Services, you must adhere to the following conditions:
- You must be at least 18 years old. This age threshold is established to align with legal adulthood in most jurisdictions, thereby ensuring that users can enter into binding contracts and bear legal responsibility for their actions on the platform.
- You are allowed only one Houfy account, which must be registered under your legitimate, legal name. The creation of an account with fictitious information, or on behalf of individuals below the age of 18, is a violation of our terms and may result in immediate termination of the account and potential legal action.
- You must not be subject to any current restrictions or bans imposed by Houfy from utilizing the Services.
Marketplace Participation: Access to and use of the Houfy Marketplaces are exclusively available to individuals who are at least 18 years old or to legally established entities (such as businesses or organizations) that are in good standing under the laws of their respective countries and capable of forming legally binding contracts.
Enforcement of Age Restrictions: Houfy will vigorously enforce these age restrictions. Accounts found to be owned or operated by individuals under the age of 18 will be promptly terminated to comply with legal standards and protect the integrity of the platform.
Legal Compliance and Representations: You agree to adhere to all applicable export control laws in your local jurisdiction. You also affirm and warrant that: (i) Neither you nor the services you engage in are located in or associated with any country subject to a U.S. Government embargo or designated as a "terrorist-supporting" country by the U.S. Government. (ii) You are not listed on any U.S. Government list of prohibited or restricted parties.
2.2 Your Account
Account Holder Responsibilities: As a Member and account holder on Houfy, you agree to adhere to the following responsibilities:
- Password Security: You are required to use a strong, secure password for your account and maintain its confidentiality. The security of your account depends significantly on your effective management of your password.
- Non-transferability of Account: You agree not to transfer or assign any part of your account (including your connections) to any other person. Your account is personal to you and is non-transferable.
- Legal Compliance and Policy Adherence: You must follow all applicable laws, as well as Houfy's published list of Dos and Don’ts and Professional Community Policies. These guidelines are designed to maintain a safe, respectful, and law-abiding community.
Liability for Account Activities: You are solely responsible for all activities conducted through your account, unless you close it or report any misuse to Houfy. Prompt reporting of unauthorized use or security breaches is crucial in maintaining the security of your account and the platform.
Member Identity Verification: Verifying the identity of Internet users poses significant challenges. Houfy does not assume responsibility for confirming the identity of any Member. However, for the purposes of maintaining transparency, preventing fraud, and as permitted by applicable laws, Houfy may, but is not obligated to:
(i) Request Members to provide government-issued identification or other information, or undertake additional checks to assist in verifying the identities or backgrounds of Members.
(ii) Conduct screenings of Members against third-party databases or other sources, and request reports from service providers.
(iii) Where sufficient information is available to identify a Member, obtain reports from public records of criminal convictions, sex offender registrations, or an equivalent version of background checks or registered sex offender checks in the Member's local jurisdiction (where available).
By implementing these measures, Houfy aims to foster a secure and trustworthy environment. However, Members should note that such checks are not exhaustive, and Houfy does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of such background checks or the ability of these checks to locate all past criminal activities or sex offender registrations.
2.3 Payment Terms
Payment Terms for Distinct Services: When you engage with any of Houfy's distinct paid Services, which include (i) feature-based marketing services within the platform and (ii) SaaS products offered in two different tiers of subscription, you are agreeing to our specific payment terms. This agreement encompasses the responsibility to pay all applicable fees, taxes, and adherence to additional terms tailored to these services. Non-compliance with these payment terms will result in the termination of the paid Services.
(i) Feature-Based Marketing Services: These services are not subscription-based but are typically one-time purchases for specific marketing promotions within the platform. Once the service is completed, you have the discretion to repurchase it based on your marketing needs.
(ii) SaaS Subscription Services: For our SaaS products, offered in two different tiers, your payment method will automatically be charged at the start of each subscription period for the applicable fees and taxes for that period. To avoid future charges, cancellation must occur before the subscription renewal date.
Currency and Location-Based Pricing Adjustments: Please note:
- Purchases may be subject to foreign exchange fees or differences in prices based on location, influenced by exchange rates.
- Houfy reserves the right to adjust fees and pricing for both feature-based marketing services and SaaS subscriptions according to geographic location and market conditions.
Continuous Billing Authorization: Regarding your payment method, you agree that:
- Houfy is authorized to store and continue billing your payment method to prevent service interruptions and for the payment of other services you may engage with on our platform.
Refund Policy: Your purchases of Services, including feature-based marketing services and SaaS subscriptions, are final and non-refundable.
Tax Responsibility: Taxes will be calculated based on the billing information you provide. Specific tax considerations may apply depending on the nature of the purchased service (feature-based marketing or SaaS subscriptions) and your location.
Access to Invoices: Invoices for all transactions, including those for feature-based marketing services and SaaS subscriptions, can be accessed through the “Purchase History” in your Houfy account settings.
We reserve the right to change Fees and introduce new charges in connection with the Services at any time, upon at least 30 days prior notice to the Host, which notice may be provided by e-mail to the email address associated with the Host Account. Fee changes will take effect in the Host’s Subsequent Term.
2.4 Notices & Messages
Communication Methods: As a user of Houfy's Services, you consent to receiving notices and messages from us through the following channels:
- Directly within the Service: Notices and messages may be delivered to you through functionalities within the Houfy platform.
- Via Your Provided Contact Information: Communication may also be sent to the contact information you have provided, such as email, mobile number, or physical address. It is your responsibility to ensure that your contact information remains current and accurate. Failure to maintain up-to-date contact information may result in a lack of notification, for which Houfy shall not be liable.
User Control Over Communication: You have the ability to control and limit the types of messages you receive from us. Please review your account settings to customize these preferences. This includes opting in or out of various types of communications, such as marketing messages or service updates. However, certain essential communications related to your account and legal notices will be sent regardless of your communication preferences.
Responsibility for Reviewing Notices: You acknowledge that it is your responsibility to review and respond to any communications sent by Houfy, especially those pertaining to changes in terms and policies, service updates, or other significant information. Neglecting to review these notices does not absolve you of the obligations and implications outlined in them.
2.5 Sharing
Scope of Sharing on the Platform: Houfy's Services facilitate the messaging and sharing of information in various formats, including but not limited to your profile, articles, group posts, links to news articles, listings, and direct messages. It's important to recognize that:
- Information and content you choose to share or post on Houfy may be accessible to other Members, Visitors, or external parties (including outside of the Services).
- While Houfy provides mechanisms to control who can view your content or information, the ultimate responsibility for what you share and its visibility rests with you.
User Control Over Shared Content: We respect your choices regarding the visibility of your content and information. Where settings are available, they are designed to:
- Allow you to control the audience for your shared content, such as restricting visibility to your Houfy connections, shielding your profile from search engines, or choosing not to notify others of updates to your Houfy profile.
- However, it's vital to understand that certain types of content and information shared on Houfy may remain visible in certain contexts, regardless of your specific settings (e.g., content shared in public groups or forums).
Right to Modify or Remove Content: Houfy retains the full right to:
- Not publish any information or content on our Service that we deem inappropriate or non-compliant with our policies.
Remove or modify any content or information from our Services, at any time and without prior notice. This right is exercised at Houfy's discretion to ensure the platform's integrity and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
2.6 Access
Conditional Access to Services: Houfy reserves the right to condition access to and use of the Houfy Services, or specific areas or features within these Services, on the fulfillment of certain criteria. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Completion of a verification process to ensure user authenticity and security.
- Meeting specific quality or eligibility standards, which may be established to maintain the integrity and standards of the platform.
- Adherence to certain Ratings or Reviews thresholds, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a trustworthy community.
- Consideration of a Member’s historical booking and cancellation records to ensure reliability and responsible use of the platform.
Policies for Specific Areas or Features: Regarding access to certain areas and features of the Houfy Services:
- Access may be governed by separate policies, standards, or guidelines, and may necessitate your acceptance of additional terms and conditions.
- In instances where there is a conflict between these overarching Terms and the terms and conditions specific to an area or feature of the Houfy Services, the latter will take precedence. However, this precedence applies only to your access or use of that specific area or feature, unless explicitly stated otherwise in the specific terms and conditions.
Third-Party Service Agreements: When using Houfy's Services, especially concerning applications and mapping services, you acknowledge that:
- If you access or download the Houfy Application from the Apple App Store, you are agreeing to comply with Apple’s Licensed Application End User License Agreement.
- Certain areas of the Houfy Services utilize Google Maps/Earth mapping services, including Google Maps API(s). Your use of these services is subject to the Google Maps/Google Earth Additional Terms of Service.
III. Hosting on Houfy
3.1 Role of the Host
- Using Houfy as a Host: As a host on Houfy, you have the opportunity to share your property with our community of travelers and earn income. Creating a listing on Houfy is straightforward, giving you control over aspects like pricing, availability, and house rules for each property you list.
3.2 Creating and Managing Your Listing
- Tools for Listing Management: Houfy provides tools for hosts to easily set up and manage listings. It's crucial that your listing includes complete and accurate information about your property, including prices, any additional charges (e.g., cleaning fees, resort fees), and specific rules or requirements for guests.
- Up-to-Date Information: As a host, you are responsible for ensuring your listing information, including calendar availability and content (such as photos), remains current and accurate at all times.
3.3 Search Ranking Factors
- Determining Listing Visibility: The ranking of listings on Houfy is influenced by several factors, including guest search parameters, listing details, host responsiveness, and history of successful bookings. The purchase of feature-based marketing services can also impact your listing's visibility.
- Enhancing Listing Visibility: Houfy offers feature-based marketing services that are available for purchase to enhance the visibility of your listings in search results. These services are optional and can be repurchased based on your marketing needs.
3.4 Contracting with Travelers
- Direct Agreements with Travelers: When you accept a booking request or a booking is confirmed through the Houfy platform, you are entering into a direct contract with the traveler. You are responsible for delivering the host services as per the terms and at the price specified in your listing.
- Fees and Payments: While Houfy does not charge service fees like other platforms (e.g., Airbnb), it’s important to note that any other applicable fees or taxes related to your hosting activities are your responsibility.
- Transparency with Guests: Hosts must be transparent with guests regarding any taxes or fees that are part of the booking cost and should provide clear information in their listing descriptions if any taxes are to be collected directly from guests.
3.5 Independence of Hosts
- Independent Relationship: Your relationship with Houfy is that of an independent host. You are not an employee, agent, joint venturer, or partner of Houfy. We do not direct or control your hosting services. You maintain discretion over when and how to provide host services, including setting prices and terms.
- Setting Terms for Your Listing: You have complete autonomy to set prices, establish your own rules, and manage your bookings. All additional fees or charges must be clearly communicated in your listing.
- Consistency with Houfy Terms: Any supplemental contracts or terms you establish with guests must be consistent with Houfy’s Terms of Service and your listing details. It is imperative that these additional terms are prominently disclosed in your listing description to ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings.
3.6 Collaborative Hosting and Liability
- Responsibilities in Team or Organization Hosting: If hosting as part of a team or organization, all members are expected to adhere to these terms. Those representing a team or organization confirm they have the necessary authority and that the entity is legally compliant.
3.7 Legal Compliance and Liability
- Risk Acknowledgment: By listing on Houfy, You acknowledge that hosting carries inherent risks and agree that you assume the entire risk arising out of your access to and use of the Houfy Platform, offering Host Services, or any interaction you have with other Members whether in person or online. You agree that you have had the opportunity to investigate the Houfy Platform and any laws, rules, regulations, or obligations that may be applicable to your Listings or Host Services and that you are not relying upon any statement of law made by Houfy.
- Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities: As a host, you are responsible for understanding and complying with all laws, rules, regulations, and contracts with third parties that apply to your listing or hosting activities. This includes adherence to local housing regulations, tax obligations, and any other relevant legal requirements.
Hosts' Liability: You acknowledge that as a host, you bear sole responsibility for legal compliance of your listings. Houfy, functioning solely as a platform to connect hosts and travelers, bears no liability for any legal repercussions resulting from your failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations.
IV. Rights and Limits
4.1 Your License to Houfy
You own the rights to the content you create and post on Houfy. However, by using our Services, you grant Houfy certain permissions to utilize this content.
As between you and Houfy, you retain ownership of the content and information that you submit or post to the Services. By using our Services, you grant Houfy and our affiliates a non-exclusive, worldwide, transferable, and sublicensable license to use, copy, modify, distribute, publish, and process the information and content that you provide through our Services, as well as through the services of others. This is granted without the need for further consent, notice, or compensation to you or others, subject to the following limitations:
- Termination of License: You may terminate this license for specific content by removing such content from the Services, or generally by closing your account. Exceptions to this termination include: a. Content shared with others as part of the Service which they may have copied, re-shared, or stored. b. The reasonable time required to remove content from backups and other systems.
- Advertisements and Sponsored Content: We will not use your content in advertisements for third-party products and services without your explicit consent. We reserve the right to place ads near your content and information. Your social actions may be visible in relation to these ads, as detailed in our Privacy Policy. If you utilize a Service feature, we may use your name or photo to promote that feature within our Services, subject to your account settings.
Publishing Beyond Houfy Services: We will seek your explicit consent before granting others the right to publish your content outside of our Services. However, if you set your post as "public," we will enable a feature that allows other Members to embed that public post onto third-party services, and we enable search engines to make that public content accessible through their services.
- Editing and Formatting: We may edit and make format changes to your content (such as translating, transcribing, modifying size, layout, file type, or removing metadata), but we will not alter the meaning of your expression.
- Creative Commons Licensing: You may choose to make your content available to others under the terms of a Creative Commons license, as you retain ownership.
- Access and Use of Information: In accordance with our Privacy Policy, you and Houfy agree that we may access, store, process, and use any information and personal data that you provide, subject to your choices and settings.
- Feedback: By submitting suggestions or feedback regarding our Services to Houfy, you grant us the right to use and share this feedback for any purpose, without obligation or compensation to you.
- Content Compliance: You agree to provide content or information that is lawful and does not infringe on any third party's rights, including intellectual property rights. Your profile information must be truthful and accurate. Houfy reserves the right to remove content or information as required by law, particularly in specific jurisdictions.
4.2 Service Availability
Houfy reserves the right to adapt, modify, or discontinue any aspect of our Services at our discretion.
Changes and Discontinuation: Houfy maintains the right to change, suspend, or discontinue any part of our Services at any time. This includes the modification of our pricing structure. Any changes to our prices will be made effective prospectively and will be communicated to you with reasonable notice, as permitted by applicable law.
Content Storage and Accessibility: While Houfy facilitates the sharing of content, it should not be viewed as a dedicated content storage platform. We do not guarantee the storage, availability, or permanence of any content or information posted on our Services. As such, you acknowledge and agree that Houfy has no obligation to store, maintain, or provide you with a copy of any content or information that you or others provide, except as required under applicable law or as explicitly stated in our Privacy Policy.
Data Retention and Deletion: In the event of discontinuation of any Service or feature, or upon deletion of your content or account, we will comply with our data retention and deletion policies as described in our Privacy Policy. These policies are designed in accordance with legal requirements and aim to protect both your rights and the operational integrity of our Services.
Service Modifications for Compliance and Improvement: We reserve the right to modify our Services to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and to improve user experience. Such modifications may affect the visibility, accessibility, and format of content previously posted by users.
Legal Compliance: All changes and discontinuations of services will be conducted in full compliance with applicable law, and users will be notified of significant changes as required by such laws.
4.3 Other Content, Sites, and Apps
Houfy provides a platform for diverse content and interactions, which includes user-generated content and third-party services.
Content Disclaimer: In using our Services, you may come across content that could be inaccurate, incomplete, delayed, misleading, illegal, offensive, or harmful. Houfy does not endorse, support, represent or guarantee the completeness, truthfulness, accuracy, or reliability of any content or communications posted via the Services nor does Houfy endorse any opinions expressed via the Services. While Houfy generally does not review content provided by our Members or others, you agree that we are not responsible for third parties’ content or information. Houfy cannot always prevent misuse of our Services, and you agree that we are not liable for any such misuse.
Misassociation Risk: There exists a possibility of misassociation with content about others, particularly in features that notify connections and followers about mentions in the news. You acknowledge this risk and agree that Houfy shall not be responsible for any such misassociations or any resulting repercussions to your or your organization’s image or reputation.
Houfy may help connect Members offering their services (marketing, insurance, accounting, etc.) with Members seeking services. Houfy does not perform nor employs individuals to perform these services. You must be at least 18 years of age to offer, perform or procure these services. You acknowledge that Houfy does not supervise, direct, control or monitor Members in the performance of these services and agree that (1) Houfy is not responsible for the offering, performance or procurement of these services, (2) Houfy does not endorse any particular Member’s offered services, and (3) nothing shall create an employment, agency, or joint venture relationship between Houfy and any Member offering services. If you are a Member offering services, you represent and warrant that you have all the required licenses and will provide services consistent with our
Third-Party Services: Houfy may facilitate connections between Members offering and seeking services (such as marketing, insurance, accounting, etc.). Houfy acts solely as a platform for such connections and expressly disclaims any liability arising from or related to the services provided by Members. You must be at least 18 years of age to offer, perform, or procure these services. You acknowledge that Houfy does not supervise, direct, control, or monitor Members in the performance of these services and expressly disclaims any responsibility for the offering, performance, or procurement of these services. Houfy does not endorse any particular Member’s offered services, and nothing shall create an employment, agency, or joint venture relationship between Houfy and any Member offering services. If you are a Member offering services, you represent and warrant that you have all the required licenses and will provide services consistent with our Professional Community Policies.
Events: Houfy may facilitate your registration for and/or attendance at events organized by Members. You agree that Houfy is not responsible for the conduct of any of the Members or other attendees at such events, does not endorse any particular event listed on our Services, and does not review and/or vet any of these events. You will adhere to these terms and conditions that apply to such events.
4.4 Limits
Houfy actively manages the use of its Services to ensure a secure and compliant user experience.
Usage Limits: Houfy reserves the right to limit your use of the Services. This includes, but is not limited to, imposing caps on the number of your connections and regulating your ability to contact other Members. These measures are taken to maintain the integrity and security of our Services and to ensure equitable access for all users.
Account Restriction, Suspension, and Termination: Houfy reserves the right to restrict, suspend, or terminate your account if you are found to be in breach of this Contract, any applicable laws, or if you are misusing the Services. Misuse includes, but is not limited to, violations of any of the Dos and Don’ts, Professional Community Policies, or any other applicable guidelines set forth by Houfy.
Breach Response: In the event of a breach of this Contract or misuse of our Services, Houfy will take appropriate measures, which may include warning, temporary suspension, permanent suspension, or termination of your account. Houfy will determine the appropriate action based on the nature and severity of the breach or misuse.
Legal Compliance and Enforcement: Our actions in response to a breach of this Contract or the law, or misuse of our Services, will be guided by legal requirements and our commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant platform. Houfy cooperates with law enforcement and legal authorities as required by applicable law in response to requests pertaining to criminal investigations or alleged illegal activity.
Notification and Appeal: In the event of any restriction, suspension, or termination of your account, Houfy will provide you with notice, barring exigent circumstances or as required by law. You will have the opportunity to appeal such decisions in accordance with the procedures set forth by Houfy, subject to applicable law.
4.5 Intellectual Property Rights
Houfy rigorously protects its intellectual property rights and sets clear guidelines regarding the use of its proprietary materials.
Rights in Houfy’s Look and Feel: All rights in the look, feel, functionality, and graphical user interface of Houfy are expressly reserved. This includes, but is not limited to, any visual design elements, graphics, and interactive features. While some parts of Houfy are licensed under third-party open-source licenses, and we make some of our own code available under similar licenses, any unauthorized use, copying, or adaptation of Houfy’s proprietary code, design, or branding elements is strictly prohibited without our express written permission, except where otherwise permitted by law.
Trademark Reservation and Usage: Houfy is actively engaged in the process of reserving all of its intellectual property rights in connection with the Services. This includes, but is not limited to, trademarks, service marks, trade names, logos, domain names, and any other features of brand identity. All Houfy trademarks, service marks, graphics, and logos used in connection with our Services are trademarks or registered trademarks of Houfy or are in the process of being registered. Usage of these trademarks or logos without Houfy’s express written consent is strictly prohibited. Trademarks and logos used in connection with the Services, which are the property of their respective owners, are used under principles of fair use or other legal permissions.
Intellectual Property Claims: Houfy respects the intellectual property rights of others and expects its users to do the same. Any claims of infringement upon intellectual property rights, including copyright, trademark, or patent infringement, should be directed to Houfy's designated agent for notice of such infringement.
Protection of Open Source Software: Where Houfy utilizes or provides open-source software, such usage is governed by the respective open source licenses. Users are required to adhere to the terms and conditions outlined in these open-source licenses when using or interacting with such software provided by Houfy.
4.6 Automated Processing
Houfy employs advanced algorithms and automated processes to enhance user experience and service efficiency.
Use of Data for Recommendations: We utilize the information and data you provide, along with our comprehensive understanding of all Members, to tailor recommendations for connections, content, features, and listings that may be of interest to you. For instance, we use data and information about you to suggest relevant Listings and to promote your Listings to Members searching for such offerings. This automated processing is designed to enhance user engagement and the overall effectiveness of our Services.
Accuracy of Profile Information: Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date profile enhances the precision of our recommendations. You acknowledge and agree that the quality and relevance of the recommendations made by Houfy depend significantly on the information you provide. As such, we encourage you to keep your profile information current to ensure the best possible user experience.
Data Privacy and Security: In our use of automated processing and data analysis, we adhere strictly to our Privacy Policy, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of your data. Houfy is committed to safeguarding your personal information and utilizing it in a manner that respects your privacy and complies with applicable data protection laws.
Consent to Automated Processing: By using our Services, you consent to this automated processing of your data. You have the option to manage your preferences and settings to control the extent of automated processing applied to your data.
Limitation of Liability: While we strive to offer relevant and useful recommendations, Houfy shall not be liable for any inaccuracies or misalignments in these automated recommendations. We continuously work to improve our algorithms to enhance accuracy and relevance.
V. Subscription Terms
These Subscription Terms are legally binding and govern the use of Houfy Inc.'s ("Houfy") Software as a Service (SaaS) products. By subscribing to and utilizing Houfy's services, the member ("Subscriber") agrees to be bound by these Terms, including any updates or amendments made by Houfy from time to time.
For users in the Designated Countries (European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland), these Subscription Terms are a contract with Houfy Luxembourg SARL and are governed by Luxembourg laws.
5.1 Subscription Plans and Services
Houfy offers various subscription plans designed to cater to the diverse needs of property owners and managers in the vacation rental industry. Each plan provides a specific set of features and services, the details of which, including pricing, are available on the Houfy Pricing Page. The plans are subject to modification, with Houfy reserving the right to introduce new plans or discontinue existing ones, reflecting market demands and business strategy.
Trial Period
- Subscribers using Houfy paid services within a free trial period acknowledge and agree that the services will automatically cease at the end of the trial period if they have not paid the applicable Fees.
- During the free trial period, Houfy may terminate the contract with the Subscriber at any time and for any reason by giving notice.
- Houfy reserves the right to delete any content stored in relation to an expired trial period, without liability to the Subscriber.
Pricing and Payment
The price for each subscription plan is specified per listed property. The Subscriber is responsible for selecting the appropriate plan during the registration process and is obligated to pay the full subscription fee for the entire chosen period (monthly or annually). Houfy reserves the right to adjust pricing, which will be communicated to the Subscriber with reasonable notice. Pricing may differ based on the Subscriber's location, influenced by exchange rates.
Billing and Renewal
Subscription fees are billed at the commencement of the subscription period and subsequently at the beginning of each renewal period. Subscriptions automatically renew at the end of each period unless the Subscriber cancels the subscription through the Houfy billing portal or provides written notice to Houfy within the specified timeframe before renewal. Renewal rates are subject to change, with prior notification to the Subscriber.
Upgrades, Downgrades, and Adjustments
Subscribers may upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans at any point during their subscription period. Any changes will be reflected immediately, with the billing adjusted on a prorated basis. In the case of an upgrade, the Subscriber will incur additional charges for the remaining subscription period, reflected in the subsequent billing cycle. Downgrades will result in a credit to the Subscriber's account, applicable to future billing cycles.
Property Management
Subscribers can add or remove properties from their subscription at any time. Additional properties will incur prorated charges, while the removal of properties will result in a credit based on the remaining subscription period. These adjustments will be reflected in the subsequent billing cycle.
Payment Processing and Disputes
Payment for subscriptions will be processed using the payment method provided by the Subscriber. In the event of payment failure, Houfy will attempt to charge the payment method multiple times before taking any action that may affect the Subscriber's account. Subscribers disputing charges must engage in good faith to resolve such disputes, during which time Houfy will not exercise its rights under the "Late or Missed Payments" clause.
Late or Missed Payments
In cases of late or missed payments, Houfy will notify the Subscriber and attempt additional charges over a specified period. Continuous failure to make payments may result in limitations on account features or suspension of the Subscriber's account until outstanding payments are settled.
Cancellation Policy
Subscribers may cancel their subscription at any point. Cancellation will take effect at the end of the current subscription period, and the Subscriber will not be billed for subsequent periods. Past payments are non-refundable, and any prorata debits incurred through subscription plan upgrades are liable to be billed in the subsequent period at Houfy’s discretion. Any credits on the Subscriber's account at the end of the subscription period cannot be refunded.
Changes to Pricing and Fees
Houfy reserves the right to change the pricing and fees for its subscription plans and services. Any such changes will be effective from the next billing cycle that occurs more than 30 days after Houfy has announced the new pricing or fees.
Return and Refund Policy
All subscription plans purchases are final and non-refundable.
Account Abuse
Houfy will investigate and may suspend or terminate accounts suspected of circumventing or attempting to circumvent Houfy's per-listing pricing model, prorated charges, or engaging in any fraudulent or illegal activities.
Amendment of Terms
Houfy reserves the right to amend these Subscription Terms as necessary. Amendments will be communicated to Subscribers and will become effective upon publication, unless a later date is specified.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction
These Terms are governed by the laws of Colorado, USA, and disputes arising under these Terms will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Colorado.
Contact and Communication
For any inquiries or notices required under these Terms, Subscribers should contact Houfy using the official contact information provided in clause 12.3.
VI. Disclaimer and Limit of Liability
6.1 Disclaimer of Warranty
This section outlines the scope of warranties and disclaimers related to Houfy's Services.
General Disclaimer: HOUFY AND ITS AFFILIATES PROVIDE THE SERVICES, INCLUDING ALL CONTENT AND INFORMATION, ON AN “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS. While Houfy endeavors to provide a high-quality user experience, we make no representation, warranty, or guarantee about the Services' performance, quality, safety, reliability, or availability.
Explicit Disclaimers: To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, HOUFY AND ITS AFFILIATES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY, OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE, ACCURACY OF DATA, AND NON-INFRINGEMENT. Houfy does not warrant that the Services will be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or error-free, or that any defects will be corrected.
User Responsibility: You acknowledge that many activities carry inherent risks and agree that, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, you assume the entire risk arising out of your access to and use of the Houfy Platform and any Content, including your stay at any Accommodation, use of any other Host Service, or any other interaction you have with other Members whether in person or online. This means it is your responsibility to investigate a Host Service to determine whether it is suitable for you. For example, Host Services may carry risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, or death, and you freely and willfully assume those risks by choosing to participate in those Host Services.
Exclusion of Certain Damages: Under no circumstances will Houfy or its affiliates be liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, special, punitive, or exemplary damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the Services, regardless of the form of action, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), strict liability, or otherwise.
Jurisdictional Variations: The disclaimers and exclusions under this section shall be applied to the greatest extent enforceable under applicable law. Some jurisdictions do not allow the disclaimer of certain warranties or the exclusion of liability for certain types of damages, so some of the above disclaimers and exclusions may not apply to you, depending on your jurisdiction.
6.2 Limitation of Liability
This section outlines the limits of Houfy's legal liability to you.
Scope of Liability: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, AND UNLESS HOUFY HAS ENTERED INTO A SEPARATE WRITTEN AGREEMENT THAT SPECIFICALLY OVERRIDES THIS CONTRACT, HOUFY, ALONG WITH ITS AFFILIATES, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, AND LICENSORS, SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, OR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUES, WHETHER INCURRED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, OR ANY LOSS OF DATA, USE, GOODWILL, OR OTHER INTANGIBLE LOSSES. This limitation of liability applies regardless of the cause of action, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), breach of statutory duty, or otherwise, even if foreseeable.
Excluded Damages: This includes, but is not limited to, liability for lost business opportunities, damage to reputation (e.g., offensive or defamatory statements), loss of data (e.g., downtime, loss of use of, or changes to, your information or content), or any other losses arising from or relating to your use of or inability to use the Services.
Monetary Cap on Liability: In no event will Houfy’s total liability arising out of or in connection with this Contract or from the use of or inability to use the Services exceed the greater of: (a) the total fees actually paid or payable by you to Houfy for the Services during the term of this Contract, if any, or (b) US $1000.
Acknowledgement of Terms: By using the Services, you acknowledge that Houfy has set its prices and entered into this Contract in reliance upon the limitations of liability, disclaimers of warranties, and exclusion of damages set forth herein, and that these provisions form an essential basis of the bargain between the parties.
6.3 Basis of the Bargain; Exclusions
This section clarifies the fundamental role of the liability limitations in the agreement between you and Houfy.
Foundation of the Agreement: The limitations of liability set forth in this Section 4 are fundamental elements of the basis of the agreement between you and HOUFY. These limitations apply to all claims of liability, regardless of their nature (e.g., warranty, tort, negligence, contract, law), and remain in effect even if HOUFY or its affiliates have been advised of the possibility of such damages, and irrespective of whether these remedies fail their essential purpose.
Legal Exceptions to Limitations: While our liability is significantly limited under this Contract, these limitations of liability do not apply in cases of liability for death or personal injury resulting from our negligence, or for our fraud, gross negligence, or intentional misconduct. Additionally, these limitations do not apply in cases of negligence where a material obligation of this Contract has been breached — a material obligation being one which forms a prerequisite to our delivery of services and on which you may reasonably rely. However, our liability in such cases will be limited to damages that were directly caused by the breach and were foreseeable upon conclusion of this Contract, and only to the extent that such damages are typical in the context of this Contract.
Acknowledgment by User: By agreeing to these terms, you acknowledge and consent to these limitations as being a fair and necessary part of the agreement with Houfy, understanding that these limitations are a condition of the service provided.
VII. Termination
7.1 Termination Rights
Both you (the "User") and Houfy reserve the right to terminate this Agreement at any time, with or without cause, upon providing written notice to the other party. Upon termination, your right to access and use the Services shall immediately cease.
7.2 Survival of Provisions
Notwithstanding any termination, the following provisions of this Agreement shall continue to remain in effect:
- Our rights to use and disclose your feedback;
- The rights of Members and/or Visitors to further re-share content and information you have shared through the Services;
- Sections 4, 7, 8, and 9.2 of this Contract;
- Any financial obligations incurred by either party prior to the termination shall remain in full force and effect post-termination.
7.3 Grounds for Termination by Houfy
Houfy may, without prior notice, immediately terminate this Agreement and/or cease providing access to the Houfy Platform under the following circumstances:
(i) You commit a material breach of your obligations under these Terms, our Policies, or Standards; (ii) You engage in conduct that violates applicable laws, regulations, or third party rights; (iii) Houfy determines, in its sole discretion, that such action is necessary to protect the personal safety or property of Houfy, its Members, or third parties, or to prevent fraud or other illegal activities.
7.4 Remedial Measures
In addition to termination, Houfy reserves the right to take one or more of the following actions, in its sole discretion, under the circumstances described in Section 7.3:
- Refuse to display, delete, or delay any Listings, Ratings, Reviews, or other Member Content;
- Cancel any pending or confirmed bookings;
- Limit your access to or use of the Houfy Services;
- Temporarily or permanently revoke any special status associated with your Houfy Account;
- Temporarily or permanently suspend your Houfy Account and access to the Houfy Services.
7.5 Notice and Opportunity to Cure
In cases of non-material breaches, where feasible, Houfy will provide notice of the intended action and an opportunity for the User to remedy the breach to Houfy's reasonable satisfaction before implementing the above measures.
7.6 No Right to Restoration
Following termination of this Contract, you shall not be entitled to the restoration of your Houfy Account or any of your Member Content. In the event your Houfy Account is suspended, terminated, or your access to the Houfy Services is limited by Houfy, you are prohibited from registering a new account or accessing the Houfy Services through another Member's account.
7.7 Appeals Process
If Houfy takes any action under this Section 6, you have the right to appeal the decision by contacting our customer service. This does not waive Houfy's right to take the aforementioned actions.
7.8 Account Closure Assistance
For assistance regarding account closure, Users are directed to our Help Center.
VIII. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
8.1 Applicability of Consumer Protection Laws
This section does not deprive you of any mandatory consumer protections under the laws of the country in which you have your habitual residence, to which Houfy directs its Services.
8.2 Jurisdiction:
- Governing Law: These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Colorado and the United States of America, without regard to conflict-of-law provisions.
- Venue and Jurisdiction: Litigation of all claims and disputes must be conducted in the federal or state courts in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA, with both parties consenting to personal jurisdiction in these courts.
- Equitable Relief: Notwithstanding the aforementioned, Houfy reserves the right to seek injunctive or other equitable relief in any jurisdiction, in a court of competent authority, to prevent the violation of its proprietary rights, protect its interests, or enforce its terms.
IX. General Terms
9.1 Severability and Modification
If any part of this Contract is found invalid or unenforceable by a court with jurisdiction, you and we agree that the court should endeavor to modify the terms to maintain the original intent while ensuring enforceability. If modification is not possible, the invalid or unenforceable part shall be severed from this Contract, with the remainder of the Contract remaining in full force and effect.
9.2 Non-Waiver of Rights
Houfy's failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms does not constitute a waiver of such right or provision unless acknowledged and agreed to in writing by Houfy. A waiver of any default is not a waiver of any subsequent default. The exercise by either party of any remedy under these Terms is without prejudice to its other remedies under these Terms or otherwise permitted under law.
9.3 Entire Agreement
These Terms, along with any additional terms, conditions, policies, guidelines, or standards, constitute the entire Contract between Houfy and you regarding the subject matter hereof, and supersede all prior understandings or agreements, whether written or oral.
9.4 Relationship of the Parties
No joint venture, partnership, employment, or agency relationship is created between you and Houfy as a result of this Contract or your use of the Services.
9.5 Enforcement of Contract
A failure to enforce a breach of this Contract does not constitute a waiver of Houfy's right to enforce this Contract. You may not assign, transfer, or delegate this Contract or your rights and obligations herein without Houfy's prior written consent. Houfy reserves the right to assign, transfer, or delegate this Contract and any rights and obligations herein, at its sole discretion, to its affiliates or a successor entity in the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, with 30 days prior notice.
9.6 Third-Party Beneficiaries
Except as expressly provided in these Terms, there are no third-party beneficiaries to this Contract.
9.7 Electronic Notifications
Unless otherwise specified, all notices or communications to Members under this Contract will be provided electronically, through email, the Houfy Platform, or messaging service, including SMS. This electronic communication satisfies any legal requirement that such communication should be in writing.
For Members in the United States, please refer to our SMS Terms for the United States for detailed information regarding SMS notifications.
9.8 Legal Notices
To provide legal notice to Houfy, you must send it by postal mail to the addresses specified in Section 10. Legal notices sent to Houfy are deemed effective only upon receipt.
X. Houfy “Dos and Don’ts”
10.1 Dos - You agree that you will:
- Compliance with Laws: Comply with all applicable laws, including, but not limited to, privacy laws, intellectual property laws, anti-spam laws, export control laws, tax laws, and regulatory requirements;
- Accuracy of Information: Provide accurate information to us and promptly update it as necessary;
- Identity Integrity: Use your real name on your profile;
- Professional Use: Use the Services in a professional and responsible manner.
10.2 Don'ts - You agree that you will not:
- False Identity and Misrepresentation: Create a false identity on Houfy, misrepresent your identity, create a profile for anyone other than yourself, or use or attempt to use another’s account;
- Unauthorized Data Collection: Develop, support, or use software, devices, scripts, robots, or other processes (including crawlers, browser plugins, and add-ons) to scrape the Services or copy profiles and data;
- Circumventing Security Measures: Override security features or bypass or circumvent access controls or use limits of the Service;
- Unauthorized Use or Distribution of Information: Copy, use, disclose or distribute any information from the Services without Houfy's explicit consent;
- Disclosure of Confidential Information: Disclose information that you do not have the consent to disclose (such as others' confidential information);
- Violation of Intellectual Property Rights: Infringe upon the intellectual property rights of others, including unauthorized copy or distribution of content without permission;
- Misuse of Houfy's Intellectual Property: Violate Houfy's intellectual property or other rights, including unauthorized use of our materials, technology, trademarks, or branding;
- Distribution of Harmful Software: Post content that contains harmful software, such as viruses or worms;
- Reverse Engineering: Attempt to derive the source code for the Services or related technology not open sourced;
- False Affiliation: Imply or state an affiliation or endorsement by Houfy without our express consent;
- Unauthorized Monetization: Rent, lease, loan, trade, sell/re-sell the Services, related data, or access without Houfy's consent;
- Prohibited Linking Practices: Deep-link to our Services without Houfy's consent, except for promoting your profile or a Group;
- Use of Automated Methods: Employ bots or automated methods for unauthorized activities on the Services;
- Competitive Monitoring: Monitor the Services for competitive purposes;
- Service Modification or Interference: Engage in actions that alter, harm, or burden the Services unduly;
- Adherence to Additional Terms: Violate Professional Community Policies, specific Service terms, or applicable third-party terms, such as Google Maps terms.
Additionally, you are encouraged to report any security vulnerabilities in Houfy's platform directly to us.
10.3 Enforcement and Remedies
Failure to comply with these ‘Dos and Don’ts’ may result in enforcement actions by Houfy, including but not limited to account suspension, termination, or legal action. Houfy reserves the right to enforce these terms at its sole discretion and to take any necessary actions to protect its platform, users, and interests.
10.4 Indemnification
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Houfy, its affiliates, officers, agents, employees, and partners from any claim, demand, loss, or damages, including reasonable attorneys' fees, arising out of or related to your breach of these ‘Dos and Don’ts,’ or your violation of any law or the rights of a third party.
XI. Complaints Regarding Content
11.1 Respect for Intellectual Property Rights
Houfy respects the intellectual property rights of others. We insist that all information and content posted by Members must be accurate and not infringe upon the intellectual property rights or other legal rights of any third parties.
11.2 Complaints Policy and Procedure
We have established a comprehensive policy and a clear, effective process for addressing complaints concerning content posted by our Members. This includes but is not limited to:
- Notification of Infringement: If you believe that your intellectual property or other rights have been infringed by a Member's content, you may notify us by providing a detailed description of the alleged infringement. Such notifications should be directed to Houfy's designated agent for copyright and intellectual property complaints, whose contact information will be provided on our website and in this section.
- Content Review Process: Upon receipt of a complaint, Houfy will review the content in question and determine the appropriate course of action in compliance with applicable law and our policies. This process may include the temporary or permanent removal of the content, communication with the Member who posted the content, and/or other measures as deemed necessary.
- Member Response Opportunity: Members who have had content removed or otherwise affected due to a complaint will have the opportunity to respond to such actions, including providing evidence that the content does not violate any third-party rights or that they have authorization to use the content.
11.3 Legal Compliance and Cooperation
Houfy commits to complying with applicable laws regarding the handling of intellectual property and other complaints. We may disclose a complainant's information to the Member who posted the allegedly infringing content, as required by law. Houfy will cooperate with law enforcement or other authorities if legally required or in cases where the content is deemed to pose a risk of violating any laws.
11.4 No Liability for Member Content
Houfy does not endorse, support, represent or guarantee the completeness, truthfulness, accuracy, or reliability of any content posted by Members or endorse any opinions expressed via the Services. Houfy shall not be liable for any content posted by Members, including but not limited to any errors or omissions in content, or for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of any content posted, emailed, transmitted, or otherwise made available through the Services.
XII. How To Contact Us
12.1 General Inquiries
For general questions, feedback, or support requests, Houfy offers several avenues of contact:
- Online Contact: You may reach out to us through our online contact form available on the Houfy website, where queries will be directed to the appropriate department.
- Support Community: Join our dedicated support community on Facebook for assistance, insights, and shared experiences from other Houfy members.
12.2 Legal Notices and Service of Process
For legal notices or service of process, the following protocols must be observed:
- Written Notices: Legal notices or documents should be sent to Houfy at the designated postal addresses, which will be clearly listed on our website and below in this section. Ensure that such correspondence is addressed to the Legal Department for timely and appropriate processing.
- Verification of Receipt: To confirm the receipt of any legal notice or document, please request a written acknowledgment from Houfy's Legal Department.
12.3 Contacting Us for Specific Concerns
For specific concerns, including but not limited to privacy issues, intellectual property disputes, or legal inquiries, direct your communication as follows:
- E-mail Communication: For urgent or specific inquiries, including those requiring discretion or confidentiality, you may email us at info@Houfy.com. Please include a clear subject line and any relevant details to facilitate a prompt and accurate response.
- Designated Contact Points: For specialized inquiries, Houfy may provide additional contact points, such as dedicated email addresses or phone numbers, which will be listed on our website.
12.4 Response Time
Houfy endeavors to respond to all inquiries promptly. However, response times may vary depending on the nature and complexity of the inquiry.
12.5 Updating Contact Information
Houfy reserves the right to update or change contact information and methods. Members are advised to refer to this section of the Terms of Service regularly for the most current contact details.
Houfy Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your data when using our platform and associated services.
Houfy.com Inc. (“Houfy”,“we”, “us”, or “our”) value you as our customer, and recognize the importance of your privacy. This Privacy Policy details your rights regarding the information we collect or hold about you and provides guidance on how to contact us with any privacy-related inquiries.
If you don’t agree with the terms of this Privacy Policy, you may not access or use the Houfy Services. If you have any comments or questions about this Privacy Policy, feel free to contact us at info@houfy.com
Last updated November 30 2023
I. Privacy Policy Summary
1.1 What does this Privacy Policy cover?
This Privacy Policy is designed to describe:
- The specific types of personal information we collect and how we use it.
- The instances in which we might share your personal information.
- The choices available to you regarding the collection, use, and sharing of your personal information.
1.2 What personal information do we collect and use, and how do we collect it?
We collect personal information in three primary ways:
- Directly from you when you provide it to us.
- Automatically through technologies such as cookies, subject to your consent where required.
- From third parties, such as our business partners.
This occurs, for example, when you create an account on Houfy, sign up for offers or information, or make an inquiry or booking using our platform.
The automated collection of information is conducted through technologies like cookies on your browser or via our mobile apps. This information helps us improve our services, maintain accurate records, investigate potential fraud, and effectively market our offerings.
1.3 How is your personal information shared?
Your personal information may be shared under circumstances such as:
- Facilitating bookings and providing support during your travels or stays.
- Communicating with you, including sending information about products and services or enabling communication with travel providers or property owners/managers.
- Compliance with legal obligations or to protect our legal rights.
1.4 What are your rights and choices?
You can exercise your data-protection rights in various ways. For example, you can opt out of marketing by clicking the “unsubscribe” link in emails you receive, changing preferences in your account, as applicable, or by contacting our customer service team.
II. Core Principles
When it comes to your personal information we believe in transparency, not surprises. So before we get into the details, we want to share with you a few of our core privacy principles.
- First, we don’t sell your personal information to anyone. It’s just not the type of business we’re in.
- Second, we don’t share your personal information unless you’ve specifically allowed it, or for the very limited purposes described below.
- Finally, we appreciate that when you use our Houfy Services, you trust us with your information, and we take that responsibility very seriously.
This Privacy Policy applies to the use of the Houfy Services (as defined below), including by both consumers and Professionals. “Professional(s)” means individuals, companies and other organizations or persons acting as real estate professionals or otherwise engaged in a business related to Houfy's Services, including, without limitation, agents, brokers, real estate professionals, home service professionals and other service professionals. Except as otherwise indicated, Professionals, consumers and other persons using the Houfy Services are individually and collectively referred to as “you.”
This Privacy Policy applies to personal information collected by Houfy Corporation, through the Houfy websites, and mobile apps, mobile-optimized websites and other applications and/or electronic media (such as emails Houfy sends) (collectively, the “Services”). This includes, but is not limited to: https://www.houfy.com & https://www.maps.houfy.com
This Privacy Policy holds us accountable for protecting your rights and your privacy.
2.1 Definitions
If you see an undefined term in this Privacy Policy (such as “Listing” or “Houfy Services”), it has the same definition as in our Terms of Service (“Terms”).
When this policy mentions “Houfy,” “we,” “us,” or “our,” it refers to the Houfy Corporation that is responsible for your information under this Privacy Policy.
III. Collection
When you use the Houfy Services, we collect the following information, and use it only as described below:
3.1 Account Information.
We ask for and collect the following personal information about you when you use the Houfy Services. This information is necessary for the adequate performance of the contract between you and us and to allow us to comply with our legal obligations. Without it, we may not be able to provide you with all the requested services.
- Account Information. When you sign up for an Houfy Account, we require certain information such as your first name, last name and email address.
- Profile and Listing Information. To use certain features of the Houfy Services (such as booking or creating a Listing), we may ask you to provide additional information, which may include your address, phone number, and a profile picture.
- Identity Verification Information. To help create and maintain a trusted environment, we may collect identity verification information (such as images of your government issued ID, passport, national ID card, or driving license, as permitted by applicable laws) or other authentication information.
- Payment Information. To use certain features of the Houfy Services (such as booking or creating a Listing), we may require you to provide certain financial information (like credit card information) in order to facilitate the processing of payments (via Stripe or Square Payments).
- Communications with Houfy and other Members. Information pertaining to your communications with Houfy or other Members is collected, including the content you choose to share.
3.2 Third Party Account Information. If you use Third Party Services, such as social media or photo-sharing services, you may provide us with your Third Party Services account information, such as your username (note that we don’t store any passwords you use to access Third Party Services). We transmit, and may store, such account information, only as needed to provide the Houfy Services, and only in accordance with the terms and policies of the Third Party Services.
We do not control, supervise or respond for how the third parties providing your information process your Personal Information, and any information request regarding the disclosure of your personal information to us should be directed to such third parties.
- Third Party Services. If you link, connect, or login to your Houfy Account with a third party service (e.g. Google, Facebook), the third party service may send us information such as your registration, friends list, and profile information from that service. This information varies and is controlled by that service or as authorized by you via your privacy settings at that service.
- Background Information. For Members in the United States, to the extent permitted by applicable laws, Houfy may obtain reports from public records of criminal convictions or sex offender registrations. For Members outside of the United States, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and with your consent where required, Houfy may obtain the local version of police, background or registered sex offender checks. We may use your information, including your full name and date of birth, to obtain such reports.
- Enterprise Product Invitations and Account Management. Organizations that use our Enterprise products and programs with property managers may submit personal information to facilitate account management and invitations to use enterprise products.
- Referrals. If you are invited to Houfy, the person who invited you may submit personal information about you such as your email address or other contact information.
- Other Sources. To the extent permitted by applicable law, we may receive additional information about you, such as demographic data or information to help detect fraud and safety issues, from third party service providers and/or partners, and combine it with information we have about you. For example, we may receive background check results (with your consent where required) or fraud warnings from service providers like identity verification services for our fraud prevention and risk assessment efforts. We may receive information about you and your activities on and off the Houfy Services through partnerships, or about your experiences and interactions from our partner ad networks.
3.3 Payment Information. When you initially provide or update your payment information, we transmit it via an encrypted connection to our Payment Processor, Stripe or Square. Stripe and Square use and process payment information in accordance with their Privacy Policies. We don’t store payment information, other than zip code and/or country, which is required for billing and to comply with tax and other government regulations.
3.4 Communications With Us. When you send us emails or other communications, such as customer support inquiries, we maintain those communications and their contents so that we can resolve your inquiries or otherwise assist you. We may review, scan, or analyze your communications on the Houfy Platform for reasons including fraud prevention, security investigations, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, product development, research, analytics, enforcing our Terms of Service, and customer support purposes. We primarily use automated methods for these purposes but may occasionally need to manually review communications, such as for fraud investigations and customer support, or to assess and improve the functionality of these automated tools. We will not review, scan, or analyze your messaging communications to send third-party marketing messages to you and we will not sell reviews or analyses of these communications.
Sometimes we’ll send you emails about your account, service changes or new policies. You can’t opt out of this type of “transactional” email (unless you delete your account). But, you can opt out of non-administrative emails such as digests, newsletters, and activity notifications through your account’s “Settings” page
When you interact with an email sent from Houfy (such as opening an email or clicking on a particular link in an email), we may receive information about that interaction. We won’t email you to ask for your password or other account information. If you receive such an email, please send it to us so we can investigate.
3.5 Public Comments On The Services. We maintain any comments, contributions to discussions, or messages submitted to members of the Houfy Services, in order to provide the Houfy Services. This includes the ability to review, scan, or analyze these communications for the purposes of fraud prevention, security investigations, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, product development, research, analytics, enforcing our Terms of Service, and customer support. Automated methods are primarily used for these purposes, with occasional manual reviews as necessary.
3.6 Files You Provide Us. When you use the Houfy Services, we store, process, and transmit your Member Content (such as your photos) and information related to your Member Content (such as location tags in photos). We process and store such files and information in order to provide the Houfy Services, as described in our Terms of Service. We may review, scan, or analyze the content you upload, including photos and other files, for purposes such as fraud prevention, security investigations, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, product development, research, analytics, enforcing our Terms of Service, and customer support. This analysis may be conducted using automated methods, with manual reviews performed as necessary.
You may choose to provide us with additional personal information in order to obtain a better user experience when using the Houfy Services. This additional information will be processed based on our legitimate interest or when applicable, your consent.
- Additional Profile Information. You may choose to provide additional information as part of your Houfy profile, such as preferred language, city, and a personal description. Some of this information as indicated in your Account settings is part of your public profile page, and will be publicly visible to others.
- Address Book Contact Information. You may choose to import your address book contacts or enter your contacts’ information manually to access certain features of the Houfy Services, like inviting them to use Houfy.
- Other Information. You may otherwise choose to provide us information when you fill in a form, update or add information to your Houfy Account, respond to surveys, post to community forums, participate in promotions, communicate with our customer care team or use other features of the Houfy Services.
3.7 Usage Information. This includes information about your activity on and interaction with the Houfy Services, such as your IP address, your device or browser type, the webpage you visited before coming to our sites and identifiers associated with your devices. This information enables us to analyze how the Houfy Services are being accessed and used, and to track performance of the Houfy Services.
When you use the Houfy Services, we automatically collect personal information about the services you use and how you use them. This information is necessary for the adequate performance of the contract between you and us, to enable us to comply with legal obligations and given our legitimate interest in being able to provide and improve the functionalities of the Houfy Services. We may also review, scan, or analyze your interactions and communications on the Houfy Platform for purposes including fraud prevention, security investigations, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, product development, research, analytics, enforcing our Terms of Service, and customer support. Automated methods are primarily used for these purposes, with occasional manual reviews as necessary.
- Geo-location Information. Your devices (depending on your settings) may transmit location information to the Houfy Services. We use this information to customize, improve and protect the Houfy Services. For example, we may use your location information to determine local language preferences, or to geotag a post.
- Usage Information. We collect information about your interactions with the Houfy Platform such as the pages or content you view, your searches for Listings, bookings you have made, and other actions on the Houfy Services.
- Log Data and Device Information. We automatically collect log data and device information when you access and use the Houfy Services, even if you have not created an Houfy Account or logged in. That information includes, among other things: details about how you’ve used the Houfy Services (including if you clicked on links to third party applications), IP address, access dates and times, hardware and software information, device information, device event information, unique identifiers, crash data, cookie data, and the pages you’ve viewed or engaged with before or after using the Houfy Services.
- Cookies and Similar Technologies. We use these technologies to do things such as remember your preferences, keep you safe and improve and promote the Houfy Services. You can read more about how we use these technologies in our Cookie Policy, which is incorporated by reference into this Privacy Policy. We may collect certain information by automated means using technologies such as cookies, web beacons, pixels, browser analysis tools, server logs, and mobile identifiers. In many cases the information we collect using cookies and other tools is only used in a non-identifiable without reference to personal information. For example, we may use information we collect to better understand website traffic patterns and to optimize our website experience. In some cases we associate the information we collect using cookies and other technology with your personal information. Our business partners may also use these tracking technologies on the Houfy Services or engage others to track your behavior on our behalf.
- Pixels and SDKs. Third parties, including Facebook, may use cookies, web beacons, and other storage technologies to collect or receive information from our websites and elsewhere on the internet and use that information to provide measurement services and target ads. For apps, that third parties, including Facebook, may collect or receive information from your app and other apps and use that information to provide measurement services and targeted ads. Users can opt-out of the collection and use of information for ad targeting by updating their Facebook account ad settings and by contacting info@houfy.com with a description of your request and validation information. Users can access a mechanism for exercising such choice by going to http://www.aboutads.info/choices and http://www.youronlinechoices.eu/. For more information on our use of these technologies, see our Cookie Policy.
- Do Not Track Signals. While you may disable the usage of cookies through your browser settings, the Houfy Services currently does not respond to a “Do Not Track” signal in the HTTP header from your browser or mobile application due to lack of standardization regarding how that signal should be interpreted.
IV. Sharing
When you use the Houfy Services, we may share your information only as described below:
4.1 Third Parties You Authorize
You can give third parties access to your and your End Users’ information on the Houfy Services. For example, you may wish to integrate Your Sites with a third party newsletter service that requires access to the email addresses you collect from your End Users, in order for that newsletter service to send emails on your behalf and at your direction. Please be aware that any third party's utilization of this information will be governed by the terms and privacy policies of the third party.
4.2 Following The Law
We may disclose your information to courts, law enforcement, governmental or public authorities, tax authorities, authorized third parties, or other members if and to the extent we are required or permitted to do so by law or where disclosure is reasonably necessary to: (i) comply with our legal obligations, (ii) comply with a valid legal request, such as a subpoena or court order, or to respond to claims asserted against Houfy, (iii) respond to a valid legal request relating to a criminal investigation to address alleged or suspected illegal activity, or to respond to or address any other activity that may expose us, you, or any other of our users to legal or regulatory liability, (iv) enforce and administer our agreements with members, including our Terms of Service, (v) respond to requests for or in connection with current or prospective legal claims or legal proceedings concerning Houfy and/or third parties, in accordance with applicable law, or (vi) protect the rights, property, or personal safety of Houfy, its employees, its members, or members of the public.
Notification: Where appropriate and/or legally required, we may notify members about legal requests, unless: (i) providing notice is prohibited by the legal process itself, by court order we receive, or by applicable law, or (ii) we believe that providing notice would be futile, ineffective, create a risk of injury or bodily harm to an individual or group, or create or increase a risk of fraud upon or harm to Houfy, our members, or expose Houfy to a claim of obstruction of justice.
Disclosure to Tax Authorities: Where legally required or permissible according to applicable law, we may disclose hosts’ and/or guests’ information to relevant tax authorities or other governmental agencies, depending on where you are based, for the purpose of the tax authorities’ determination of proper compliance with relevant tax obligations.
Disclosure to Governmental Authorities for Registrations, Notifications, Permits, or License Applications or Numbers: In jurisdictions where Houfy facilitates or requires a registration, notification, permit, or license application or number of a host with a governmental authority, we may share information of participating hosts with the relevant authority during the application process, when the listing is published, and periodically thereafter.
4.3 Others Working For Houfy
Houfy uses certain trusted third parties to help us provide, improve, promote and protect the Services. For example, we may use third parties to help us provide customer support, manage our ads on other sites or assist with data storage. These third parties may access, process or store your information to perform tasks only for the purposes we’ve authorized, and we require them to provide at least the same level of protection for your information as described in this Privacy Policy. We also may share with third parties aggregated or anonymized information that does not directly identify you.
4.4 Business Transfers
If we're involved in a reorganization, merger, acquisition or sale of our assets, your information may be transferred as part of that deal. Rest assured, any such transfer will be conducted in accordance with applicable data protection laws, and we will take measures to ensure that your privacy rights and the commitments outlined in this Privacy Policy are upheld during and after the transfer.
V. Protection
We employ security measures such as using firewalls to protect against intruders, building redundancies throughout our network (so that if one server goes down, another can cover for it) and testing for and protecting against network vulnerabilities. We use encryption (HTTPS/TLS) to protect data transmitted to and from our site. However, no data transmission over the Internet is 100% secure, so we can’t guarantee security. You use the Service at your own risk, and you’re responsible for taking reasonable measures to secure your account.
If you know or have reason to believe that your Houfy Account credentials have been lost, stolen, misappropriated, or otherwise compromised or in case of any actual or suspected unauthorized use of your Houfy Account, please contact us following the instructions in the Contact Us section below.
VI. Retention
We'll retain your personal information for as long as we need it to provide you with the Services. You can ask for your personal information to be deleted at any time by deleting your Account or contacting us at info@houfy.com. Please note that there may be latency in deleting your personal information from our servers and backup storage, and we may retain your personal information in order to comply with the law, protect our rights, resolve disputes or enforce our agreements. Any retention beyond the required period will be in accordance with applicable data protection laws and subject to stringent security measures.
VII. Location
Information that you submit through the Houfy Services may be transferred to countries other than where you live (for example, to our servers in the US). To ensure the seamless provision of the Houfy Services, we may also store information locally on the devices you use to access our platform. Moreover, in certain instances, we may transfer information to third parties located outside the US for processing or to support the Houfy Services. Be assured that we mandate these third parties to uphold at least the same level of protection for your information as outlined in this Privacy Policy.
VIII. Access
To modify or delete the personal information you have provided to us, simply log into the Houfy Services and update your profile. We may retain certain information as required by law or for necessary business purposes. If you wish to receive a copy of the personal information that we maintain about you, please submit a formal request. Please note that, in accordance with applicable laws, this request may be subject to a fee not exceeding the prescribed amount permitted by law
IX. Communications
As part of our commitment to your privacy and preferences, we will periodically send you emails related to our services, including service-related announcements and transactional information. These are necessary for the ongoing use and management of your Houfy account and services.
In addition to these necessary communications, you may receive marketing or promotional emails from us. We respect your choice regarding these communications. You have the right to opt out of receiving marketing or promotional communications at any time. To opt out, simply click the 'unsubscribe' link (or a similar phrasing) provided in the footer of each marketing or promotional email. Please note that even after opting out of marketing communications, you will continue to receive non-promotional emails related to your account and transactions with Houfy.
We also ensure that all our communications comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding user communication preferences. Your privacy and the respect of your communication preferences are a top priority for us at Houfy.
X. End User Information
10.1 Collection And Use Of End User Information
In your use of the Houfy Services to create or publish Your Sites, and Your Sites may have End Users. We may collect, use, or delete various types of information, as outlined in Section 2, from your End Users, based on your directives and on your behalf and we treat such information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. This collection is conducted to facilitate, enhance, and safeguard the Services offered to you. For instance, during transactions, you might require End Users to provide personal details like name, address, email address, and payment information, enabling you to fulfill their orders effectively.
10.2 Your Relationship With End Users
You are empowered to manage your End Users’ information, including collection, usage, and deletion.. However, you're solely responsible for complying with any laws and regulations that apply to your End Users’ information. This includes the obligation to maintain an appropriate privacy policy for your Sites. Houfy disclaims any liability for your interactions or relationships with your End Users and does not offer legal advice in these matters.
10.3. End User Payment Information
Your End Users’ payment information may be processed via third party eCommerce Payment Processors with which you integrate your Account, in accordance with such eCommerce Payment Processors’ terms and policies. We transmit your End Users’ complete payment information when they initially provide or update it, only so that we can pass it along to the eCommerce Payment Processors you agree to use. We don’t collect or store your End Users’ payment information.
10.4 A Message To The End Users
Hello, End User! We hope you create your own site on Houfy some day! However, Houfy has no direct relationship with you. If you’d like to make any requests regarding your personal information, please contact the owner of the site you’ve visited or used, as they control your data. They may then submit any such information requests to us, and we’ll respond to them. We retain your information in accordance with this Privacy Policy.
XI. Privacy Shield
To facilitate our global operations Houfy may transfer, store, and process your information within our partners, and service providers based in Europe, India, Asia Pacific and North and South America. Laws in these countries may differ from the laws applicable to your country of residence. For example, information collected within the EEA may be transferred, stored, and processed outside of the EEA for the purposes described in this Privacy Policy. Where we transfer store, and process your personal information outside of the EEA we have ensured that appropriate safeguards are in place to ensure an adequate level of data protection.
11.1. Compliance
Houfy complies with the EU-U.S. Privacy Shield Framework as set forth by the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding the collection, use and retention of personal information transferred from the European Union to the United States (“EU Personal Data”). We’ve certified to the Department of Commerce that we adhere to the Privacy Shield Principles and, assuming our certification is approved, you’ll be able to find it here. You can learn more about Privacy Shield by visiting https://www.privacyshield.gov/
Additionally, Houfy commits to cooperating with EU data protection authorities (DPAs) and comply with the advice given by such authorities with regard to human resources data transferred from the EU in the context of the employment relationship.
11.2. Accountability.
Our accountability for EU Personal Data we receive under the Privacy Shield and subsequently transfer to a third party is described in the Privacy Shield Principles. In particular, we may use third parties to process data on our behalf as described in this Privacy Policy, and we remain liable if they do so in a manner inconsistent with the Privacy Shield Principles and we're responsible for the event giving rise to the damage.
11.3. Inquiries And Disputes
If you have questions you believe to be within the scope of our Privacy Shield certification, please contact us first at info@houfy.com and we'll respond within 45 days. For any complaints that we can’t resolve directly, JAMS is the independent organization responsible for reviewing and resolving complaints about our Privacy Shield compliance, and you can contact JAMS at https://www.jamsadr.com/eu-us-privacy-shield. In the event your concern still isn't addressed by JAMS, you may be entitled to a binding arbitration under the Privacy Shield Principles. For purposes of enforcing compliance with the Privacy Shield, Houfy is subject to the investigatory and enforcement authority of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
11.4 California & Vermont Residents
Houfy acknowledges the specific privacy rights of California and Vermont residents. We will not share personal information collected about you with our affiliates or third parties, whether they are financial or non-financial entities, except as allowed or required by the laws specific to your state.
11.5 California Privacy Rights
California law permits Members who are California residents to request and obtain from us once a year, free of charge, a list of the third parties to whom we have disclosed their personal information (if any) for their direct marketing purposes in the prior calendar year, as well as the type of personal information disclosed to those third parties. See the “Contact Us” section for where to send such requests.
Houfy does not share personal information with third parties for their own direct marketing purposes without your prior consent. Accordingly, you can prevent disclosure of your personal information to third parties for their direct marketing purposes by withholding consent.
XII. Modifications
Houfy reserves the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time in accordance with this provision. If we make changes to this Privacy Policy, we will post the revised Privacy Policy on the Houfy Services and update the “Last Updated” date at the top of this Privacy Policy.
We will also provide you with notice of the modification by email at least thirty (30) days before the date they become effective. If you disagree with the revised Privacy Policy, you may cancel your Account.
If you do not cancel your Account before the date the revised Privacy Policy becomes effective, your continued access to or use of the Houfy Services will be subject to the revised Privacy Policy.
XIII. Contact Us
If you have any questions or complaints about this Privacy Policy or Houfy's information handling practices, you may email us at the email addresses provided in the relevant sections above or contact us via mail at: info@houfy.com
Houfy, Inc., Legal Department, PO Box 38742, Colordao Springs, CO 80937 USA
Houfy Copyright Policy
Houfy respects the intellectual property rights of others and desires to offer a platform which contains no content that violates those rights.
Complaints regarding content posted on the Houfy website
Our Terms of Service requires that information posted by members be accurate, lawful and not in violation of the rights of third parties. To promote these objectives, Houfy provides a process for submission of complaints concerning content posted by our members. Our policy and procedures are described and/or referenced in the sections that follow.
Please note that whether or not we disable access to or remove content, Houfy may make a good faith attempt to forward the written notification, including the complainant’s contact information, to the Member who posted the content and/or take other reasonable steps to notify the member that Houfy has received notice of an alleged violation of intellectual property rights or other content violation. It is also our policy, in appropriate circumstances and in our discretion, to disable and/or terminate the accounts of members, or groups as the case may be, who infringe or repeatedly infringe the rights of others or otherwise post unlawful content.
Please note that any notice or counter-notice you submit must be truthful and must be submitted under penalty of perjury. A false notice or counter-notice may give rise to personal liability. You may therefore want to seek the advice of legal counsel before submitting a notice or a counter-notice.
Claims regarding copyright infringement
Notice of Copyright Infringement:
Pursuant to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (17 U.S.C. § 512), Houfy has implemented procedures for receiving written notification of claimed infringements. Houfy has also designated an agent to receive notices of claimed copyright infringement. If you believe in good faith that your copyright has been infringed, you may complete and submit a Notice of Copyright Infringement form, or otherwise provide a written communication which contains:
- An electronic or physical signature of the person authorized to act on behalf of the owner of the copyright interest;
- A description of the copyrighted work that you claim has been infringed;
- A description specifying the location on our website of the material that you claim is infringing;
- Your email address and your mailing address and/or telephone number;
- A statement by you that you have a good faith belief that the disputed use is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law; and
- A statement by you, made under penalty of perjury, that the information in your notice is accurate and that you are the copyright owner or authorized to act on the copyright owner’s behalf.
Please submit your notice to Houfy Corporation’s Copyright Agent as follows:
Fill out our online submission form to contact the Houfy Copyright Agent
Or contact us by mail at:
Counter-Notice:
If you believe that a notice of copyright infringement has been improperly submitted against you, you may submit a Counter-Notice, pursuant to Sections 512(g)(2) and (3) of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. You may complete the Counter-Notice Regarding Claim of Copyright Infringement form, or otherwise provide a written communication which contains:
- Your physical or electronic signature;
- Identification of the material removed or to which access has been disabled;
- A statement under penalty of perjury that you have a good faith belief that removal or disablement of the material was a mistake or that the material was misidentified;
- Your full name, your email address, your mailing address, and a statement that you consent to the jurisdiction of the Federal District court (i) in the judicial district where your address is located if the address is in the United States, or (ii) located in the Breckenridge, Colorado (Summit County), if your address is located outside the United States, and that you will accept service of process from the Complainant submitting the notice or his/her authorized agent.
Please submit your Counter-Notice to Houfy’s Copyright Agent via our online submission form or mail to the address specified above.
Claims regarding content other than copyright infringement
For issues other than copyright infringement please visit our Help Center where you’ll find information on how to flag and report other types of content violations. Learn more:
- Reporting Inappropriate Content, Messages, or Safety Concerns
- Houfy's False Profile Policy
Notice regarding Associated Press content on Houfy: Associated Press text, photo, graphic, audio and/or video material shall not be published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium. Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and non-commercial use. Users may not download or reproduce a substantial portion of the AP material found on this web site. AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing.
Cookie Policy
This Cookie Policy describes how Houfy uses cookies and similar technologies to provide, improve, promote and protect the Houfy Services.
We and our affiliates, third parties, and other partners use cookies and other identification technologies on our websites, email communications, advertisements, and other online services (collectively, the "Services") for a number of purposes, including: authenticating users, remembering user preferences and settings, determining the popularity of content, delivering and measuring the effectiveness of advertising campaigns, analyzing site traffic and trends, and generally understanding the online behaviors and interests of people who interact with our Services. You can read more here about the types of cookies we use, why we use them, and how you can exercise your choices.
01. What are cookies, pixels, and local storage?
A cookie is a small amount of data that's placed in the browser of your computer or on your mobile device. Like many websites, Houfy and our other services use cookies to discover how people are using our services and to make them work better.
A pixel is a small amount of code on a web page or in an email notification. We use pixels to learn whether you’ve interacted with certain web or email content. This helps us measure and improve our services and personalize your experience.
Local storage is an industry-standard technology that allows a website or application to store information locally on your computer or mobile device. We use local storage to customize what we show you based on your past interactions with our services.
First-party cookies are cookies served by the entity operating the domain through which the cookie is served. Houfy.com’s own cookies are therefore “first-party cookies." In case we allow others to service cookies through the Houfy.com websites and apps, these cookies are so-called “third-party cookies." We may use third party cookies, such as Google Analytics, to assist with analyzing performance. Any third party cookie usage is governed by the privacy policy of the third party placing the cookie.
In addition, there's a difference between session cookies and permanent cookies. Session cookies only exist until you close your browser. Permanent cookies have a longer lifespan and aren't automatically deleted when you close your browser.
All these technologies together are referred to in this Cookie Statement as “cookies."
02. Why do our services use these technologies?
Cookies allow you to be recognized as the same user across the different pages of a website, between websites, or when you use an app. The types of info that we collect through cookies include IP address; device ID; viewed pages; browser type; browsing info; operating system; internet service provider; timestamp; whether you have responded to an advertisement; the referring URL; and features used or activities engaged in within the website/apps.
Our services use these technologies to deliver, measure, and improve our services in various ways. These uses generally fall into one of the following categories:
Technical Cookies: We try to give our visitors an advanced, user-friendly website and apps that adapt automatically to their needs and wishes. To achieve this we use technical cookies to show you our website, to make them function correctly, to create your user account, to sign you in, and for example to manage your bookings. These technical cookies are absolutely necessary for our website to function properly.
- Authentication and security:
- To log you into Houfy.
- To protect your security.
- To let you to view content with limited distribution.
- To help us detect and fight spam, abuse, and other activities that violate the Houfy Rules.
- For example, these technologies help authenticate your access to Houfy and prevent unauthorized parties from accessing your account. They also let us show you appropriate content through our services.
Functional Cookies: We also use functional cookies to remember your preferences and help you use our website and apps efficiently and effectively. If you're using the Houfy.com websites or apps to search for a property, for example, these cookies remember your preferred currency, language, your searches, and your previously viewed searches. We might also use cookies to remember your registration info so that you don’t have to retype your login credentials each time you visit our site. Passwords will, however, always be encrypted. These functional cookies aren't strictly necessary for the functioning of our website or apps, but they add functionality and enhance your Houfy.com experience.
- Preferences:
- To remember information about your browser and your preferences.
- For example, cookies help us remember your preferred language or the country that you are in. We can then provide you with Houfy content in your preferred language without having to ask you each time you visit Houfy. On Houfy, we can also customize content based on your country, such as showing you what topics are trending near you, or to withhold certain content based on applicable local laws.
- Analytics and research:
- To gain insight into how our visitors use Houfy.com.
- To help us analyze how the Houfy Services are being accessed and used, and enable us to track performance of the Houfy Services, including Houfy buttons and widgets, and Houfy Ads.
- For example, cookies determine if you viewed a page or opened an email. This helps us provide you with information that you find interesting. We use cookies to provide insights regarding your End Users and Your Listing(s) or social Posts performance, such as page views, conversion rates, device information, visitor IP addresses and referral sites.
- For example, cookies help us test different versions of our services to see which particular features or content users prefer. We might also optimize and improve your experience on Houfy by using cookies to see how you interact with our services, such as when and how often you use them and what links you click on. We may use Google Analytics to assist us with this. Learn more about the cookies you may encounter through our use of Google Analytics.
- Personalized content:
- To customize our services with more relevant content, like tailored trends, stories, ads, and suggestions for people to follow.
- For example, local storage tells us which parts of your Houfeed you have viewed already so that we can show you the appropriate new content. Cookies can help us make smarter and more relevant suggestions about who you might enjoy following based on your visits to websites that have integrated Houfy embeds, including embedded timelines.
- Personalization across devices:
- By better understanding how devices are related, we can use information from one device to help personalize the Houfy experience on another device.
- When you log in to Houfy on a device, we associate that device with your Houfy account. Whether or not you are logged in to Houfy, we may also receive information about your devices when, for example, that information is shared by a partner; you visit Houfy.com; you visit third-party websites that integrate Houfy content; or you visit a Houfy advertiser’s website or mobile application. We may use this information, most commonly IP addresses and the time at which the information was received, to infer that certain devices are associated with one another, including the devices on which you log in to Houfy. To learn more about the devices associated with your account, check out
Your Houfy Data while logged in. To learn more about the other devices associated with the device or browser you are currently using, visit Your Houfy Data while logged out.
Marketing cookies: Houfy.com and our trusted partners use third-party cookies. These cookies are used to display personalized ads both on Houfy.com and other sites. These ads are based on your browsing, such as the accommodations and prices you view. These cookies are also used to integrate social media into our site, allowing you to like or share pages or products on social media.
- Advertising:
- To help us deliver ads, measure their performance, and make them more relevant to you based on criteria like your activity on Houfy and visits to our ad partners' websites.
- For example, we use cookies and pixels to personalize ads and measure their performance. Using these technologies, we can show you ads and evaluate their effectiveness based on your visits to our ad partners' websites.
- We also work with third-party advertising partners, including Google, to market our services and serve ads on behalf of our advertisers, including through the delivery of interest-based ads. For example, if you visit Houfy and also use a social media platform, you may see a Houfy ad in your social media newsfeed or timeline.
03. Where are these technologies used?
We (along with third parties) use these technologies on our websites, applications, and services and on other websites, applications, and services that have integrated our services, including third-party properties that incorporate our advertising technology. This includes our ad partners’ websites and sites that use our embeds, including embedded timelines. Third parties may also use these technologies, for example, when you click on links from our websites or applications, view or interact with third-party content from within our services, or visit third-party websites that incorporate our advertising technology.
04. What are your Privacy choices?
To learn more about cookies and how to manage or delete them, just visit allaboutcookies.org and the help section of your browser. In the settings for browsers like Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox or Chrome, you can set which cookies to accept and which to reject. Where you find these settings depends on your browser – use the "Help" function in your browser to locate the settings you need.
If you decide not to accept certain technical and/or functional cookies, you might not be able to use some functions on our website. We currently don't support “Do Not Track” browser settings. In case a common standard has been developed that defines what exactly will be meant by “Do Not Track” browser signals, we'll review Cookie Statement again.
Advertising: When it comes to online advertising and marketing companies, we strive to work with companies that are members of the Network Advertising Initiative (NAI) and/or the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB). Members of NAI and IAB adhere to industry standards and codes of conduct. NAI and IAB members allow you to opt out of behavioral advertising. Visit www.networkadvertising.org to identify the NAI members that may have placed an advertising cookie file on your computer.
To opt out of an NAI member's behavioral advertising program, just check the box that corresponds to the company you want to opt out from. You can also visit www.youronlinechoices.com or www.youradchoices.com to learn how to opt out of customized advertisements. Your mobile device may allow you to limit the sharing of information for retargeting purposes through its settings. Be aware that opting out of an online advertising network doesn't mean that you will no longer receive or be subject to online advertising or marketing analysis. It just means the network you opted out of won't deliver ads customized to your web preferences and browsing patterns anymore.
Analytics: In order to control the collection of data for analytical purposes through Google Analytics from certain browser types, visit the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on (for desktop only).
We may modify this Cookie Policy from time to time, and will post the most current version on our site. If a modification meaningfully reduces your rights, we'll notify you in accordance with the procedures set forth in our Terms of Service. If you have any questions, suggestions, or comments about this Cookie Policy, feel free to contact us at info@houfy.com
Terms of Service and Privacy Policy Mailing Address