Terms and Conditions

1. Introduction & Agreement

1.1 Who We Are

Welcome to Hourly.Design (“Hourly.Design,” “we,” “our,” or “us”). We operate a digital platform that connects Clients looking for design and construction guidance with independent Consultants who provide consultations and related services.

1.2 What These Terms Do

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) form a legally binding agreement between you (“User,” “you,” or “your”) and us. They explain your rights, obligations, and the rules for using our website, mobile application, and linked pages (together, the “Platform”).

1.3 Other Policies

These Terms should be read along with our Privacy Policy and our Refund & Cancellation Policy (Hyperlinked above), which are separate documents but form part of this overall agreement. Each of these is designed to be transparent about how the Platform works and how we handle your data and payments.

1.4 Acceptance

By accessing or using the Platform, including browsing, creating an account, booking a consultation, or making a payment, you agree to be bound by these Terms along with the Privacy Policy and the Refund & Cancellation Policy. If you do not agree, you should not use the Platform. Your continued use of the Platform after any updates to these Terms will be treated as your acceptance of the revised Terms.
 

2. Definitions and Interpretations

For the purposes of these Terms, the following words have the meanings set out below.

• “User” means any individual or entity that accesses, registers on, or otherwise uses the Platform, whether as a Client or as a Consultant.
   

• “Client” means a User who uses the Platform to search for, book, or receive services from a Consultant.
   

• “Consultant” means a User who offers design, construction, or related consultation services through the Platform.
   

• “Services” means the features made available by us on the Platform, including browsing, booking, scheduling, communication, payment processing, and use of escrow. “Services” do not include the actual professional advice or work provided by a Consultant to a Client.
   

• “Service Engagement” means the arrangement formed directly between a Client and a Consultant when a booking is made through the Platform. We facilitate this engagement by providing the Platform, escrow, and related tools, but we are not an active party to the Service Engagement, nor do we assume any responsibility for the quality, delivery, or outcome of the Consultant’s services.
   

• “Consultation” means a time-based session booked by a Client with a Consultant through the Platform.
   

• “Deliverable” means any tangible or intangible output that a Consultant agrees to provide to a Client as part of a Service Engagement, such as sketches, notes, designs, or recommendations, whether shared digitally or otherwise.
   

• “Escrow” means the payment holding system provided through the Platform to secure funds for a Consultation or Deliverable until the booked service is completed, or until a refund or dispute process is resolved in accordance with these Terms and the Refund & Cancellation Policy. 
   

• “Linked Pages” means third-party integrations or pages connected to the Platform (such as booking systems or payment gateways) that form part of the User experience.
   

• “Platform Fee” means the facilitation fee charged by us on each invoice, as disclosed at the time of payment.
   

• “User Content” means any content uploaded, submitted, communicated, or shared by a User through the Platform or in connection with a Service Engagement, including but not limited to account details, reviews, project briefs, communications, messages exchanged over integrated or linked channels (such as WhatsApp), Deliverables, or any other material.
   

3. User Eligibility and Representations

3.1 To use the Platform, you must be at least 18 years of age and legally capable of entering into binding agreements. By creating an account, booking a Consultation, or otherwise accessing the Platform, you confirm that you meet this minimum age requirement and that you have the full legal capacity to contract under the laws of your country of residence. If you are using the Platform on behalf of a company, partnership, or other legal entity, you also confirm that you are duly authorised to bind that entity to these Terms, and that all references to “you” in these Terms will apply to both you as an individual and to the entity you represent.
 

3.2 The Platform is designed to be accessible worldwide, but we do not guarantee that it is suitable for use in every jurisdiction. You are solely responsible for ensuring that your use of the Platform complies with the laws and regulations that apply to you, including local consumer protection, data protection, and tax laws. By continuing to use the Platform, you accept this responsibility and agree that we will not be liable if your use of the Platform contravenes any such local requirements.
 

3.3 You also represent and warrant that all information you provide to us, whether at the time of registration or during your use of the Platform, is true, accurate, current, and complete. You agree to promptly update your account details whenever there is a change to ensure they remain correct.
 

3.4 In using the Platform, you commit to doing so honestly, fairly, and for lawful purposes only. This includes respecting the rights of other Users, avoiding any attempt to interfere with or disrupt the Platform, and refraining from bypassing our escrow system, avoiding Platform Fees, or engaging in fraud, misrepresentation, or other conduct that may harm the integrity of the Platform or the safety of its Users.
 

4. Registration and Account Management

4.1 To access certain features of the Platform, including the ability to book a Consultation, purchase a Deliverable, or receive payments as a Consultant, you will be required to register and create an account. When creating your account, you must provide accurate, current, and complete information, including your full name, a valid email address, a working phone number, and any additional details we may reasonably request for verification or compliance purposes. We may, in our sole discretion, request supporting documentation (such as identity proof, address proof, or professional qualification, specifically in the case of Consultants) to validate the information provided. By registering, you authorise us to rely on the information you submit as true and correct until you notify us of any updates.
 

4.2 You are solely responsible for maintaining the confidentiality and security of your login credentials, including your username, password, and any verification codes issued to you. Any activity carried out through your account will be deemed to have been carried out by you, whether or not authorised by you.
 

4.3 If you suspect that your account has been accessed without your permission, or if you believe that your password has been compromised, you must notify us immediately using the contact information provided in these Terms. We will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your failure to maintain the security of your account or for any unauthorised use that occurs before you notify us.
 

4.4 Each User may only create and maintain one account, unless expressly authorised by us in writing. Multiple accounts, false identities, impersonation of others, or accounts created with inaccurate or misleading information are strictly prohibited. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate any such accounts and to withhold or cancel any associated bookings, payments, or Escrow transfers if we reasonably believe the accounts are fraudulent or intended to circumvent our policies.
 

5. Platform Services

5.1 The Platform is designed to act as a professional marketplace that facilitates connections between Clients and Consultants. Through the Platform, we provide features such as browsing Consultant profiles, viewing availability and hourly rates, scheduling and booking Consultations, enabling communication between Clients and Consultants, and securely handling payments through Escrow. These features are collectively referred to in these Terms as our “Services.” Our Services are strictly limited to facilitating and supporting interactions between Clients and Consultants; we do not ourselves provide design, construction, or consulting services of any kind.
 

5.2 When a Client makes a booking, the outcome of that booking is a Service Engagement directly between the Client and the Consultant. We are not a party to this Service Engagement. Our role is to provide the digital infrastructure, payment handling, and dispute resolution mechanisms that allow such engagements to take place in a secure and structured manner. Clients therefore acknowledge and agree that the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of any advice, Consultation, or Deliverable rests solely with the Consultant, and that we are not responsible for reviewing, supervising, or warranting the professional competence of Consultants.
 

5.3 Consultations are generally time-based sessions, typically lasting one hour, and may be extended by the Consultant at their discretion if their schedule permits. Deliverables may also be offered, such as sketches, concept notes, designs, or written recommendations, depending on the Consultant’s practice and what has been agreed with the Client as part of the booking. The scope and substance of a Consultation or Deliverable is determined exclusively between the Client and the Consultant during their Service Engagement. We do not create, review, or guarantee the content of Consultations or Deliverables, nor do we certify that any Deliverable may be used as official or legally binding documentation.
 

5.4 To make the most of the Services, Clients are encouraged to prepare before a Consultation by providing a clear project brief, including relevant details such as location, scope, challenges, budget, and vision. Providing this information in advance enables the Consultant to deliver a more effective and tailored Consultation. In addition, Clients must ensure they have the technical requirements in place, including a stable internet connection, a functioning webcam and microphone, and an appropriate device, to participate in a Consultation. We are not responsible for any disruption, poor audio or video quality, or inability to complete a Consultation arising from the Client’s technical setup.
 

5.5 We expect all Users to conduct themselves professionally and respectfully during Consultations. Consultants have the right to end a session if a Client engages in inappropriate, abusive, or disruptive behaviour, and Clients have the same right if a Consultant behaves in a similar manner. In such cases, the affected party should immediately report the incident to us, and we will review it under our dispute management process. While we may take action against a User found to have acted improperly, such as suspension or removal from the Platform, we do not provide guarantees that every interpersonal issue between Clients and Consultants can be resolved to a party’s satisfaction.
 

5.6 Clients and Consultants must use the Platform to initiate and complete all bookings and Service Engagements. You agree not to bypass the Platform by arranging Consultations or Deliverables directly with one another outside the Platform with the intent of avoiding Platform Fees or our Escrow system. Any Consultation or Deliverable that is conducted outside the Platform falls entirely outside our responsibility. We are not liable for the quality, safety, or outcome of any engagement that does not originate and conclude through the Platform.
 

5.7 While we take steps to onboard Consultants who represent that they are qualified and experienced, we do not independently verify every claim or credential. It is the Client’s responsibility to evaluate and select a Consultant that meets their needs. 
 

5.8 We provide tools such as reviews, ratings, and Consultant profiles to support Clients in evaluating and selecting Consultants. Reviews and ratings are based entirely on feedback from Clients who have previously booked a Consultation or received a Deliverable, and profiles are created and maintained solely by Consultants themselves. We do not edit, optimise, or otherwise influence reviews, ratings, or profiles, and we do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any such information. Clients acknowledge that while these tools may be helpful, the ultimate decision and responsibility for selecting and relying on a Consultant’s advice or Deliverables rests with them, and any reliance is at their own risk.
 

5.9 We encourage Clients to provide honest and constructive reviews and ratings after each Consultation or Deliverable, as this feedback helps maintain transparency, accountability, and the overall robustness of the Platform.
 

5.10 Finally, while we strive to maintain the reliability, accuracy, and availability of the Platform, we cannot guarantee uninterrupted access or error-free operation. Technical issues, maintenance, or third-party integrations may occasionally affect the availability of Services. We are not liable for any loss of opportunity, time, or resources resulting from such disruptions, although we will use reasonable efforts to restore access promptly.
 

6. Fees and Payments

6.1 All financial transactions on the Platform are processed through our Escrow system and integrated payment gateways. Consultants independently determine their rates for Consultations and Deliverables, and these rates are displayed at the time of booking. When a Client confirms a booking, the quoted fee is payable immediately through one of the accepted payment methods on the Platform. Bookings are not confirmed until payment has been successfully processed.
 

6.2 We may support multiple payment methods, such as credit and debit cards, net banking, UPI, or digital wallets, depending on availability in your country. By providing your payment details, you authorise us and our third-party payment processors to charge the relevant amounts in accordance with your booking. We do not store sensitive payment card information on our servers; this is handled securely by our payment providers. You are responsible for any charges, fees, or penalties applied by your bank, card provider, or payment processor in connection with your use of the Platform.
 

6.3 In addition to the Consultant’s fee, we may charge a Platform Fee for facilitating bookings, maintaining the Platform, and providing Escrow and related services. The applicable Platform Fee will be disclosed at the time of payment. Once payment has been made by the Client, the amount (after deduction of the Platform Fee and any applicable taxes) will be held in Escrow until the relevant Consultation or Deliverable is completed, or until a refund or dispute process is resolved in accordance with these Terms and the Refund & Cancellation Policy.
 

6.4 Funds are released from Escrow to Consultants once the Client has confirmed that a Consultation or Deliverable has been satisfactorily completed, or if no dispute is raised within the timeframe specified on the Platform. Disbursements are generally processed within 15(fifteen) business days of Client confirmation, subject to delays outside our control such as banking holidays, payment gateway delays, or compliance checks. We reserve the right to withhold or delay disbursement if we reasonably believe there has been fraud, misrepresentation, or a violation of these Terms.
 

6.5 All payments made on the Platform are subject to applicable taxes, such as GST or VAT, which will be calculated and displayed at checkout. Clients are responsible for any additional taxes or duties that may apply in their jurisdiction, and Consultants are responsible for reporting and remitting any income-related taxes arising from payments they receive through the Platform. We may be required by law to deduct or withhold taxes in certain circumstances, in which case such amounts will be remitted to the relevant authority and deemed to be payment on your behalf.
 

6.6 All transactions on the Platform are displayed in the base currency specified on the Platform. If your payment method operates in a different currency, conversion rates, bank charges, or fees may apply, and you are solely responsible for such charges. We do not control or profit from currency exchange rates or charges imposed by financial institutions.
 

6.7 Clients acknowledge that any attempt to reverse or charge back a payment without valid grounds may result in suspension or termination of their account, as well as withholding of pending payments or Deliverables. If a payment fails or is cancelled after a booking has been confirmed, we may cancel the relevant Service Engagement, and the Consultant will have no obligation to provide the Consultation or Deliverable.
 

6.8 Charitable donations or other voluntary contributions made through the Platform, if any, are final and non-refundable.
 

7. Refunds, Cancellations and Rescheduling

7.1 Refunds and cancellations are governed by our standalone Refund & Cancellation Policy, which forms part of these Terms and is incorporated by reference. Users should review that policy in full before making or accepting a booking. For convenience, the key rules are summarised below.
 

7.2 Clients may cancel a Consultation or Deliverable booking up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time and receive a refund, subject to the conditions described in the Refund & Cancellation Policy. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled time may not be eligible for a refund, except where required by law or where we determine otherwise in our discretion.
 

7.3 If a Consultant fails to attend a scheduled Consultation or does not deliver the agreed Deliverable, the Client will be entitled to a full refund or the option to reschedule at no additional cost. If a Client fails to attend a scheduled Consultation without providing the required notice, the booking will be treated as completed and no refund will be due.
 

7.4 Rescheduling is permitted subject to the availability of the Consultant and the notice requirements set out in the Refund & Cancellation Policy. Repeated cancellations or rescheduling requests may result in suspension or termination of a User’s account if we determine that such behaviour disrupts the integrity of the Platform.
 

7.5 All refunds are processed through Escrow. Where a Client is entitled to a refund under these Terms or the Refund & Cancellation Policy, funds held in Escrow will be released back to the Client’s original payment method, typically within 15 (fifteen) business days of approval. If there is a dispute between a Client and a Consultant regarding whether a Consultation or Deliverable has been satisfactorily completed, the matter will be addressed through the dispute management process in Section 13 of these Terms, and Escrow funds will be held until resolution.
 

8. User Content and Intellectual Property

8.1 The Platform, including its design, layout, software, underlying code, databases, trademarks, logos, and all other intellectual property, whether registered or unregistered, is owned by us or licensed to us. By using the Platform, you are granted a limited, personal, non-exclusive, non-transferable, and revocable licence to access and use the Platform strictly for the purposes described in these Terms. This licence does not transfer to you any ownership rights in the Platform, and it may be suspended or revoked at any time if you breach these Terms. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, modify, adapt, translate, reverse-engineer, disassemble, decompile, scrape, or otherwise exploit any part of the Platform or its content without our prior written consent.
 

8.2 When you upload, submit, or share any content on the Platform, including your profile information, project briefs, communications, Deliverables, reviews, ratings, or feedback (together, “User Content”), you retain ownership of your rights in such content. By submitting User Content, however, you grant us a worldwide, royalty-free, transferable, sublicensable, and non-exclusive licence to host, display, use, reproduce, and distribute that User Content solely for the purposes of operating, promoting, and improving the Platform. This licence continues for as long as the User Content remains on the Platform and for a reasonable period thereafter to allow us to maintain records, comply with law, and resolve disputes.
 

8.3 You represent and warrant that any User Content you upload or share belongs to you or that you have the necessary rights and permissions to use and share it, and that the User Content does not infringe the rights of any third party. You are solely responsible for your User Content, and we disclaim all liability for any errors, omissions, or violations that may arise from it. We reserve the right, but are not obliged, to remove or restrict access to any User Content that we believe violates these Terms, infringes third-party rights, or otherwise poses a risk to the safety or integrity of the Platform.
 

8.4 With respect to Deliverables, ownership and usage rights are determined directly between the Client and Consultant as part of their Service Engagement. We do not claim any rights in Deliverables created by Consultants for Clients, and we are not responsible for supervising or enforcing the ownership, transfer, or usage of Deliverables. Consultants are responsible for ensuring that any Deliverables they provide are original or properly licensed and that they do not infringe the intellectual property rights of others. Clients are responsible for using Deliverables only for lawful purposes and in accordance with the scope agreed with the Consultant.

8.5 Except for the limited licence granted under these Terms, nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as granting any User any right, title, or interest in or to our intellectual property or the intellectual property of any other User. All rights not expressly granted here remain reserved to us and, where applicable, to the relevant User who owns the intellectual property.
 

9. Data Protection and Privacy

9.1 We are committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of all Users. Our practices in relation to the collection, storage, use, disclosure, and safeguarding of your information are set out in our standalone Privacy Policy, which forms part of these Terms and is incorporated by reference. By using the Platform, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the Privacy Policy, and you consent to the collection and use of your information as described therein.
 

9.2 In the course of providing Services, we collect certain personal data from Users, such as contact details, identity documents, payment information, and communications shared through the Platform. This data is used to operate and improve the Platform, to process bookings and payments through Escrow, to ensure security and compliance, and to enable communication between Clients and Consultants. We may also use aggregated or anonymised information for analytics, product development, and reporting, but such information will not identify you personally.
 

9.3 We comply with the requirements of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (India) and, where applicable, other global data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union. We take reasonable technical and organisational measures to safeguard your information against unauthorised access, loss, or misuse, but we cannot guarantee absolute security given the nature of online systems.
 

9.4 By using the Platform, you authorise us to share relevant information with Consultants or Clients where necessary for the purpose of completing a Service Engagement. For example, a Client’s project brief may be shared with a Consultant before a Consultation, or a Consultant’s profile information may be shared with a Client. Beyond such operational sharing, we will not sell or rent your personal information to third parties. We may, however, disclose your information if required by law, regulation, legal process, or governmental request, or if disclosure is necessary to protect our rights, property, or the safety of Users.
 

9.5 You have certain rights in relation to your personal data, including the right to access, correct, update, or request deletion of your information in accordance with applicable law. You may also withdraw consent to certain types of processing at any time, though doing so may affect your ability to use some or all of the Services. Requests to exercise your rights may be made by contacting us at team@hourly.design or in accordance with the procedures described in the Privacy Policy.
 

9.6 By continuing to use the Platform, you acknowledge that while we take reasonable steps to protect your data, transmission of information over the internet is never entirely secure, and you provide information at your own risk.
 

10. Code of Conduct & Prohibited Uses

10.1 All Users are expected to use the Platform and participate in Consultations and Service Engagements in a professional, honest, and respectful manner. By accessing or using the Platform, you agree to conduct yourself in a way that upholds the integrity of the Platform and the trust of its community.
 

10.2 You agree not to impersonate another person or misrepresent your identity, qualifications, or affiliations. Consultants must ensure that all information provided in their profiles is accurate and not misleading, and Clients must provide genuine project briefs and details for Consultations. Any attempt to create multiple or false accounts, to provide false information, or to mislead other Users will be treated as a material breach of these Terms.
 

10.3 You must not attempt to bypass the Platform by arranging Consultations or Deliverables directly with another User outside of the Platform with the intent to avoid Escrow or Platform Fees. Any such attempt undermines the safety and fairness of the Platform and may result in suspension, termination, or withholding of payments. Service Engagements that do not originate and conclude through the Platform are entirely outside our responsibility, and we disclaim all liability for any conduct, advice, or Deliverables in relation to such engagements.
 

10.4 You must not upload, share, or transmit any User Content that is illegal, defamatory, harassing, obscene, discriminatory, offensive, infringing, or otherwise harmful. This includes content that violates intellectual property rights, breaches confidentiality, contains malware or viruses, or promotes violence, hate, or unlawful activity. You are solely responsible for the legality of the content you share and for ensuring that it does not harm other Users or the Platform.
 

10.5 You must not use the Platform for purposes other than those permitted in these Terms. This includes refraining from spamming, scraping, data-mining, reverse-engineering, or attempting to disrupt, disable, or overload the Platform. Any unauthorised use of the Platform, including automated access or interference with its security, will be considered a breach of these Terms.
 

10.6 We reserve the right to investigate and take action against any breach of this Code of Conduct, which may include suspension or termination of accounts, withholding of Escrow funds, removal of User Content, reporting to relevant authorities, or initiating legal proceedings. Our decision in relation to the enforcement of this section shall be final and binding.
 

11. Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

11.1 The Platform and our Services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis. While we strive to ensure that the Platform is reliable, secure, and accessible, we do not guarantee that it will always be free from interruptions, errors, delays, or technical issues. Access to the Platform may be affected by circumstances beyond our control, including internet disruptions, third-party service outages, or scheduled maintenance. You acknowledge that occasional interruptions may occur and that we will not be liable for any inconvenience, loss of data, or other consequences resulting from such interruptions.
 

11.2 We act solely as a facilitator that enables Clients and Consultants to connect, communicate, and transact. We do not endorse, supervise, or control Consultants, nor do we guarantee the accuracy, completeness, reliability, or suitability of any Consultation or Deliverable provided through a Service Engagement. All advice, recommendations, or Deliverables are created and delivered solely by Consultants, and Clients accept that reliance on such advice or Deliverables is at their own risk. We are not responsible for ensuring that a Consultation or Deliverable meets a Client’s expectations, requirements, or intended use.
 

11.3 Although we take reasonable steps to encourage Consultants to present accurate profiles and to promote transparency through reviews and ratings, we do not verify every credential, qualification, or claim made by Consultants. We also do not verify every project brief or representation made by Clients. Accordingly, we disclaim liability for any misrepresentation, omission, or misconduct by any User. Disputes between Clients and Consultants are subject to the procedures set out in these Terms, and we are not responsible for resolving every disagreement or guaranteeing a particular outcome.
 

11.4 To the fullest extent permitted by law, we disclaim all warranties, whether express, implied, statutory, or otherwise, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, accuracy, availability, or non-infringement. We make no representation that the Platform, the Services, or any Consultation or Deliverable will meet your expectations, deliver specific results, or be free of errors.
 

11.5 In no event shall we be liable to any User for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to loss of profits, loss of data, loss of goodwill, or business interruption, whether arising in contract, tort, or otherwise, even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages. Our total liability for any claims arising out of or relating to these Terms, the Platform, or any Service Engagement, whether in contract, tort, negligence, strict liability, or otherwise, shall not exceed the total Platform Fees paid by the User to us in the two (2) months preceding the event giving rise to the claim.
 

11.6 All Consultations are intended to provide general guidance and professional input based on the information shared by the Client, but they do not replace the need for licensed architectural, engineering, legal, or other specialised professional advice where required by law. Deliverables provided through the Platform, such as sketches, notes, or design concepts, are not official documents and cannot be relied upon as permits, certifications, or legal instruments. Clients are responsible for seeking additional professional services outside the Platform if such validation is required for their projects.
 

11.7 Nothing in these Terms shall limit or exclude any liability that cannot be excluded under applicable law, such as liability for fraud, gross negligence, or willful misconduct. In such cases, our liability will be limited to the maximum extent permitted by law.
 

12. Indemnification

12.1 By using the Platform, you agree to indemnify, defend, and hold us harmless from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, penalties, fines, interest, and expenses (including reasonable legal and accounting fees) arising out of or related to your use of the Platform or Services, your participation in any Consultation, Deliverable, or Service Engagement, or your breach of these Terms or the Platform Policies. This obligation applies whether you are acting as a Client or as a Consultant, and it extends to claims brought by other Users, third parties, regulators, or governmental authorities.
 

12.2 Without limiting the scope of this indemnity, you specifically agree to indemnify us against any claim, loss, or expense resulting from: (i) any misrepresentation, inaccuracy, or omission in the information you provide; (ii) any failure by you to comply with applicable laws, regulations, or professional standards; (iii) any infringement or alleged infringement of intellectual property rights in relation to User Content or Deliverables you share; (iv) any conduct during a Consultation that causes harm, loss, or damage to another User; (v) any attempt to bypass the Platform, Escrow, or Platform Fees; (vi) any payment reversal, chargeback, or failure of payment initiated by you or your financial institution; or (vii) any tax liability, penalty, or regulatory sanction imposed on us as a result of your actions or omissions.
 

12.3 If more than one User or entity is responsible for a matter giving rise to indemnification (for example, a company and its authorised representative), such Users shall be jointly and severally liable for the full extent of the indemnity obligations under this section.
 

12.4 We reserve the right, at our discretion and expense, to assume the exclusive defence and control of any matter subject to indemnification by you. If we do so, you agree to fully cooperate with us in asserting and maintaining any defences. Your obligations under this section will survive termination of your account or cessation of your use of the Platform and will continue for as long as any related claims may be lawfully brought against us.
 

13. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law

13.1 Disputes between Clients and Consultants relating to any aspect of a Service Engagement, including the completion, quality, conduct, timing, or delivery of a Consultation or Deliverable, or any associated payment, shall first be addressed through the dispute resolution process provided on the Platform. Where a dispute is raised within the specified timeframe, both the Client and the Consultant agree to provide all relevant information, communications, and supporting evidence requested by us. We will review the materials provided and may, at our sole discretion, consult with the parties before making a final determination. Our determination may include whether funds should be released, refunded, or apportioned, or whether other remedial measures are appropriate, including warnings, suspension, or termination of a User’s account. You agree that our decision under this process shall be final and binding as between the Client and the Consultant, and that neither party will pursue us for any claim arising from our good faith administration of this process.
 

13.2 If, despite the process set out above, a Client and a Consultant choose to pursue their dispute independently through arbitration, litigation, or any other process outside the Platform, they agree that such proceedings are solely between them. We shall not be administered as a party to such proceedings, nor shall we bear any liability, responsibility, or obligation in connection with the outcome.
 

13.3 Disputes between a User and us relating to the interpretation of these Terms, the operation of the Platform, or any obligations hereunder shall be governed by the laws of India. Such disputes shall be resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, as amended from time to time. The arbitration shall be conducted by a sole arbitrator appointed in accordance with the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, seated in Delhi, and proceedings shall be conducted in English. The arbitral award shall be final and binding on all parties.
 

13.4 Subject to the arbitration clause above, the courts at Delhi, India shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any disputes arising from or relating to these Terms.
 

14. Termination and Suspension

14.1 You may terminate your use of the Platform at any time by deactivating your account through the settings provided or by contacting us at the details set out in these Terms. Termination by you will not affect any Service Engagements already booked; you remain responsible for completing any pending obligations, including attendance at scheduled Consultations, delivery of agreed Deliverables, or payment of fees. Any funds held in Escrow at the time of termination will continue to be administered in accordance with these Terms and the Refund & Cancellation Policy.
 

14.2 We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account, restrict your access to the Platform, or withhold payments if we reasonably believe that you have violated these Terms, the Platform Policies, or applicable law, or if your conduct poses a risk to the integrity, security, or reputation of the Platform or its Users. Grounds for suspension or termination may include, without limitation, misrepresentation of identity or qualifications, repeated disputes or complaints, unprofessional or abusive conduct, attempts to bypass Escrow or Platform Fees, provision of false information, failure to provide Deliverables as agreed, or use of the Platform for unlawful purposes. Suspension or termination may be temporary or permanent depending on the nature and seriousness of the violation.
 

14.3 If your account is suspended or terminated, you will lose access to your profile, User Content, pending bookings, and any associated benefits. Funds in Escrow linked to disputed or pending Service Engagements may be withheld until a resolution is reached. In cases of fraud, chargebacks, or regulatory non-compliance, we may cancel bookings and retain Escrow amounts as necessary to cover losses, claims, or expenses incurred by us. You may not create, register, or operate a new account without our prior written consent if your account has been suspended or terminated.
 

14.4 Termination or suspension of your account does not relieve you of any obligations that arose prior to the date of termination, including indemnity obligations, payment of fees, or liability for breach of these Terms. Clauses relating to indemnification, limitation of liability, dispute resolution, intellectual property, and confidentiality shall survive the termination of your account. Platform Fees already charged or deducted will not be refunded in the event of termination.
 

15. Third-Party Services and Links

15.1 The Platform may contain links to third-party websites, applications, or services, including but not limited to payment processors, booking tools, communication platforms, file-sharing systems, and social media integrations. These links and services are provided solely for your convenience, and we do not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the availability, content, policies, or practices of any third-party resource. Accessing a third-party site or service is done at your own risk, and you should review the terms and privacy policies of such providers before using them.
 

15.2 Certain aspects of the Platform, such as payments and Escrow, rely on third-party providers. While we take reasonable care in selecting reputable providers, we are not responsible for the performance, errors, interruptions, or security lapses of those providers. You acknowledge and agree that transactions may be delayed, declined, or subject to additional verification by third-party payment processors or banks, and that such matters are outside our control.
 

15.3 We may change, add, or remove integrations with third-party services from time to time without notice. Your continued use of the Platform following such changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated features and integrations.
 

15.4 To the maximum extent permitted by law, we disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or harm resulting from your use of, reliance on, or dealings with any third-party service, whether accessed through the Platform or otherwise. If you choose to use a third-party service in connection with the Platform, you do so solely under your agreement with that provider, and we shall not be bound by or liable for any terms, conditions, warranties, or obligations imposed by such provider.
 

16. Modifications to the Terms

16.1 We reserve the right to amend, update, or modify these Terms, the Privacy Policy, and the Refund & Cancellation Policy from time to time to reflect changes in the law, regulatory requirements, technology, or our business practices. Any modifications will be effective upon posting on the Platform, unless a later effective date is expressly stated. Where required by law, or where changes are material, we may also notify Users by email, in-app notification, or other reasonable means.
 

16.2 By continuing to access or use the Platform after changes have been posted or notified, you agree to be bound by the revised Terms and related policies. If you do not agree to the changes, you must stop using the Platform and may terminate your account in accordance with these Terms.
 

16.3 You are responsible for regularly reviewing the Terms and related policies to ensure that you are aware of the most current version. Your continued use of the Platform constitutes your acceptance of any updates, regardless of whether you have reviewed them in detail.
 

17. Miscellaneous

17.1 Entire Agreement: These Terms, together with the Privacy Policy and the Refund & Cancellation Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and us with respect to the use of the Platform. They supersede and extinguish all prior discussions, understandings, negotiations, representations, or agreements, whether written or oral, relating to the subject matter. No statement, promise, or representation not expressly set out in these Terms shall be binding.
 

17.2 Force Majeure: We shall not be responsible for any delay or failure in performing our obligations under these Terms to the extent caused by circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, acts of God, epidemics, pandemics, labour disputes, strikes, lockouts, acts of terrorism, wars, civil unrest, fire, flood, explosion, governmental actions, restrictions on travel or movement, failure of utilities, or disruptions in internet or telecommunication services (“Force Majeure Events”). Our obligations will be suspended for the duration of the Force Majeure Event, and we will use commercially reasonable efforts to resume performance as soon as possible. You acknowledge that Service Engagements may also be disrupted by Force Majeure Events affecting Consultants or Clients, and we disclaim responsibility for such disruptions.
 

17.3 No Waiver: Our failure, delay, or neglect to enforce any right, remedy, or provision under these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of that or any other right, remedy, or provision, nor shall it prevent us from later exercising or enforcing the same. A waiver is valid only if expressly made in writing and signed by us.
 

17.4 Severability: If any provision of these Terms is determined to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court or tribunal of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be enforced to the maximum extent permissible, and the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The parties agree that a valid and enforceable provision that reflects as closely as possible the intent of the invalid or unenforceable provision shall be substituted in its place.
 

17.5 Assignment: You may not assign, transfer, delegate, or subcontract any of your rights or obligations under these Terms without our prior written consent. Any attempted assignment in violation of this clause shall be null and void. We may assign or transfer our rights and obligations, in whole or in part, to any third party, including without limitation in connection with a merger, acquisition, restructuring, or sale of assets, or by operation of law, without notice or consent. These Terms shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective permitted successors and assigns.
 

17.6 Relationship of the Parties: Nothing in these Terms shall be construed to create any partnership, joint venture, agency, fiduciary, or employment relationship between you and us. You acknowledge that you are acting on your own behalf, and no party has the authority to bind or obligate the other in any manner except as expressly provided in these Terms.
 

17.7 Notices: All legal notices or communications required under these Terms shall be in writing and delivered by email or by courier to the contact details set out below. Notices will be deemed received: (i) if sent by email, when the email enters the recipient’s server (unless a delivery error is received); and (ii) if sent by courier, on the date of actual delivery.
 

17.8 Contact Information and Support: If you have questions, feedback, or require assistance, you may contact us at:

Email: Team@Hourly.Design

Phone: +91 8847055019

Registered Office: K-47, Kailash Colony, New Delhi, India, 110048

Our support team is available from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM IST on working days.
 

17.9 Beta Testing Disclaimer: The Platform and Services may be provided in a beta testing phase, which means that certain features are still under development and may not function consistently. By using the Platform during this phase, you acknowledge that you may encounter limitations, bugs, or incomplete features, and you accept that the Platform is provided on a trial basis without any guarantees. We reserve the right to modify, suspend, or withdraw beta features at any time without liability. We welcome feedback and suggestions during this period, and by providing feedback you grant us the right to use it freely to improve and refine the Platform.
 

17.10 Headings: The section headings in these Terms are for convenience only and shall not affect the meaning, interpretation, or construction of any provision.

 

We are excited to welcome you to Hourly.design and thank you for being part of our community. These terms are designed not just as a legal framework but as a foundation for trust, fairness, and transparency across the platform. By using the platform, you help us create a professional space where clients and consultants can connect with confidence, share ideas openly, and collaborate productively.
 

We believe that strong partnerships are built on clarity and respect, and these terms exist to protect everyone involved. Whether you are here to seek guidance or to share your expertise, your participation helps strengthen a community that values professionalism, creativity, and accountability. We look forward to supporting your journey on Hourly.design and building something meaningful together.
 

Effective from 1st August, 2025