This Privacy Policy describes how HomeGuideIS (“we,” “us,” “our”) collects, uses, shares, and protects personal information when you use homeguideis.com and related services (the “Service”). By using the Service, you agree to the practices described here. We aim to be plain-spoken: if something below is unclear, email [email protected] and we will explain it.
Information We Collect
- Information you provide: account registration details (such as name and email address), content you post (reviews, community posts, listing inquiries), messages you send us, and professional verification documents submitted by businesses.
- Information collected automatically: device and browser type, IP address, pages viewed, referring pages, and approximate location derived from IP, through cookies and similar technologies as described in our Cookie Policy.
- Information from third parties: business verification results, publicly available business records, and analytics or advertising partners, where permitted.
How We Use Information
We use personal information to operate and improve the Service — to create and manage accounts, display and moderate reviews and community content, verify professional businesses, respond to inquiries, prevent fraud and abuse, measure site performance, and, where you have consented, send service messages or newsletters you can unsubscribe from at any time.
When We Share Information
We do not sell your personal information for money. We share information with service providers who help us operate (hosting, analytics, communications), with professionals when you submit an inquiry through the Service, as required by law or legal process, and in connection with a merger, acquisition, or asset sale, with notice to you where required. Aggregated or de-identified information that cannot reasonably identify you may be used and shared for research and reporting.
Cookies and Tracking
Cookies and similar technologies help the Service function, remember preferences, and measure usage. You can control cookies through your browser settings; some features may not work without them. Details are in our Cookie Policy.
Data Retention and Security
We retain personal information for as long as needed to provide the Service and for legitimate business, legal, or regulatory purposes. We use administrative, technical, and organizational safeguards designed to protect information, but no method of transmission or storage is perfectly secure.
Your Choices and Rights
Depending on where you live — including under US state privacy laws such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) as amended — you may have rights to access, correct, delete, or obtain a copy of personal information, and to opt out of certain sharing for targeted advertising. To exercise these rights, email [email protected] with the subject line “Privacy Request.” We will verify your request and respond within the timeframes required by applicable law. We will not discriminate against you for exercising a privacy right.
Children
The Service is intended for adults and is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13; if we learn that we have, we will delete it.
Third-Party Links
Our guides link to external sources and our professional listings may link to third-party websites. Their privacy practices are their own; review their policies before providing information.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Policy and will post the revised version with an updated effective date. Material changes will be communicated as required by law.
Contact
Privacy questions and requests: [email protected].