Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of terms

By creating an account or using HostMate.cc ("the Platform"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, please do not use the Platform.

2. Description of service

HostMate.cc provides retreat hosts with tools to create websites, manage bookings, process payments, communicate with guests, and manage waitlists. We act as a technology provider — we are not a party to the transactions between hosts and their guests.

3. Account registration

You must provide accurate and complete information when creating your account. You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account and all activities that occur under it. You must be at least 18 years old to use the Platform.

4. Fees and payments

Setup fee: A one-time setup fee is charged when you activate your account. The current founding member rate is £79 (standard rate: £299).

Platform commission: We charge a 3.5% commission on each booking processed through the Platform. This fee is deducted automatically from the booking amount.

Stripe fees: Standard Stripe payment processing fees apply separately and are charged by Stripe directly.

All fees are non-refundable unless otherwise stated.

5. Host responsibilities

As a host, you are responsible for:

• The accuracy of your retreat listings and descriptions
• Delivering the retreat experience as advertised
• Complying with all applicable local laws and regulations
• Handling guest refunds in accordance with your stated cancellation policy
• Maintaining appropriate insurance for your retreats

6. Content

You retain ownership of all content you upload to the Platform (text, images, etc.). By uploading content, you grant us a non-exclusive licence to display and distribute it as necessary to provide the service (e.g., on your public retreat pages).

You must not upload content that is illegal, defamatory, or infringes on the rights of others.

7. Prohibited use

You may not:

• Use the Platform for any illegal purpose
• Attempt to gain unauthorised access to our systems
• Resell or redistribute access to the Platform
• Use the Platform to send unsolicited spam or marketing
• Interfere with the operation of the Platform

8. Limitation of liability

The Platform is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from your use of the Platform. Our total liability is limited to the amount you have paid to us in the 12 months preceding any claim.

9. Termination

You may close your account at any time by contacting us. We may suspend or terminate your account if you violate these terms. Upon termination, your data will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

10. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms of Service from time to time. We will notify you of material changes via email. Continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

11. Contact

If you have any questions about these terms, contact us at hello@hostmate.cc.