Privacy Policy

Introduction

Look, we get it - nobody really enjoys reading privacy policies. But here's the thing: we're architects, and transparency is part of how we roll. Just like we'd never hide structural issues behind fancy finishes, we're not gonna hide what we do with your data.

At Blaze for Inthor Architecture, we've been working on sustainable commercial and residential projects across Vancouver for years, and trust is everything in this business. So we're keeping it real with you about what information we collect, why we need it, and how we protect it.

This policy applies to anyone who visits our website, reaches out for consultations, or works with us on projects. It's written to comply with Canadian privacy laws, specifically PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act).

What Information We Collect

We're not in the business of collecting data for the sake of it. We only grab what we actually need to work with you and improve our services.

Information You Give Us Directly

• Contact details: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address - basically how we can reach you when we've got design updates or need to schedule site visits
• Project information: Details about your property, design preferences, budget ranges, timelines - all the stuff that helps us create spaces you'll actually love
• Communication records: Emails, phone call notes, meeting summaries - we keep track so nothing falls through the cracks
• Business info: If you're representing a company, we'll collect company name, registration details, billing information

Information We Collect Automatically

• Website analytics: IP addresses, browser types, pages you visit, how long you stick around - helps us figure out what's working and what's not
• Device data: Whether you're browsing on mobile or desktop, screen resolution, operating system
• Location data: General geographic location (city-level, not your exact coordinates - we're not stalkers)

How We Use Your Information

Straight up, we use your info to do our jobs better and keep you in the loop. Here's the breakdown:

We'll never sell your personal information to third parties. That's just not how we operate.

When We Share Your Information

Sometimes we need to share info with others to get projects done. Here's when that happens:

• Project collaborators: Engineers, contractors, consultants, suppliers - basically anyone who's part of bringing your design to life
• Service providers: Cloud storage companies, email platforms, accounting software - tools that help us run the business efficiently
• Professional bodies: Architectural associations when required for certification or compliance purposes
• Legal requirements: Government agencies, courts, or authorities when legally obligated
• Business transfers: If we ever merge with or get acquired by another firm (not planning on it, but you never know)

All these third parties are bound by confidentiality agreements and can only use your info for the specific purposes we've outlined.

Cookies and Tracking

Yeah, we use cookies - not the chocolate chip kind, unfortunately. These are small files that help our website remember your preferences and track how people use the site.

What we use them for:

• Keeping you logged into secure areas
• Remembering your settings and preferences
• Understanding which pages are popular and which ones need work
• Measuring the effectiveness of our marketing efforts

You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies, but heads up - some parts of the site might not work as smoothly.

How We Protect Your Data

We take security seriously - think of it like how we'd spec proper waterproofing for a building envelope. We've got multiple layers of protection:

• Encrypted data transmission (SSL certificates)
• Secure servers with regular backups
• Limited access - only team members who need it can see your info
• Regular security audits and updates
• Strong password policies and multi-factor authentication

That said, no system is 100% bulletproof. If we ever experience a data breach that affects you, we'll let you know ASAP and tell you what steps we're taking.

Your Privacy Rights

Under Canadian privacy law, you've got some solid rights when it comes to your personal information:

To exercise any of these rights, just shoot us an email at info@blazeforinthor.info or give us a call. We'll get back to you within 30 days.

How Long We Keep Your Info

We don't hoard data forever. Here's our general approach:

• Active clients: Throughout the project and for seven years after completion (standard practice for architectural records)
• Inquiries that didn't convert: Up to two years, then we'll delete unless you've asked to stay on our mailing list
• Marketing contacts: Until you unsubscribe or we haven't heard from you in three years
• Financial records: Seven years minimum for tax and accounting purposes

Children's Privacy

Our services aren't directed at kids under 16, and we don't knowingly collect information from them. If you're a parent and think we've accidentally collected data about your child, please contact us and we'll delete it right away.

Changes to This Policy

Sometimes we'll need to update this policy - maybe because laws change, or we add new services, or we find better ways to protect your privacy. When we make significant changes, we'll post a notice on our website and send an email to active clients.

The "Last updated" date at the top tells you when we last revised things.

Questions? Get in Touch

If you've got questions, concerns, or just want to chat about how we handle privacy, we're here for it. Seriously - we'd rather you ask than wonder.