Privacy Policy

Introduction

Look, we get it - privacy policies can be a real slog to read through. But here's the thing: we actually care about your data and how it's handled. At EmberFall Architects, we're committed to being transparent about what info we collect, why we need it, and what we do with it.

This policy applies to all services we offer, whether you're browsing our portfolio, reaching out for a consultation, or working with us on a full-scale project. We're based in Vancouver, BC, and we follow all relevant Canadian privacy laws, including PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act).

We've tried to keep this straightforward and jargon-free, but if anything's unclear, just shoot us an email. We're happy to walk you through it.

What Information We Collect

Information You Give Us Directly

When you reach out or work with us, you'll share some personal details. Here's what that typically includes:

• Contact Details: Your name, email, phone number, and mailing address
• Project Information: Property details, budget ranges, design preferences, timeline expectations
• Business Info: If you're a commercial client, we might need company name, tax ID, and billing information
• Communication Records: Emails, phone call notes, meeting summaries - basically the paper trail of our collaboration
• Payment Details: Billing addresses and payment information (though we don't store full credit card numbers)

Information We Collect Automatically

Like most websites these days, we collect some technical data when you visit:

• Device & Browser Info: What device you're using, browser type, operating system
• Usage Data: Which pages you visit, how long you stick around, what links you click
• IP Address & Location: General geographic location (not your exact address, just city/region)
• Cookies & Similar Tech: Small files that help us remember your preferences and improve site performance

Information From Other Sources

Sometimes we might receive info about you from:

• Public property records (for site analysis)
• Professional references you've authorized
• Third-party consultants working on your project

How We Use Your Information

We're not in the business of hoarding data for no reason. Here's exactly what we do with your info:

Who We Share Your Data With

We don't sell your personal information. Period. But we do need to share certain data with trusted partners to deliver our services:

Service Providers & Consultants

We work with various professionals who need access to project info:

• Structural engineers, mechanical consultants, and other technical specialists
• Contractors and construction managers
• Surveyors and site assessment teams
• Cloud storage and IT service providers
• Payment processors for billing

Legal Requirements

Sometimes we're legally required to share information with:

• Municipal building departments and planning authorities
• Provincial and federal regulators
• Law enforcement (if legally compelled)
• Courts or legal proceedings

Business Transfers

In the unlikely event that EmberFall is acquired or merged with another firm, your information would be transferred to the new entity. We'd notify you beforehand if this happens.

Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Let's talk cookies - and no, not the delicious kind. These are small text files that help websites remember you and work better.

Types of Cookies We Use

Managing Your Cookie Preferences

You've got control over cookies. Here's how to manage them:

You can also control cookies through your browser settings. Just note that blocking certain cookies might affect how our site works for you.

Your Privacy Rights

Under Canadian privacy law, you've got some solid rights when it comes to your personal data. Here's what you can do:

How We Protect Your Data

We take data security seriously. Here's what we do to keep your information safe:

Technical Measures

• Encryption: All data transmitted between your browser and our servers is encrypted using SSL/TLS technology
• Secure Storage: Your data is stored on secure servers with restricted access
• Firewalls: Multiple layers of firewalls protect against unauthorized access
• Regular Backups: We maintain secure backups to prevent data loss
• Software Updates: Our systems are regularly updated with the latest security patches

Organizational Measures

• Access Controls: Only authorized team members can access personal data, and only when necessary
• Staff Training: Our team is trained on privacy and security best practices
• Confidentiality Agreements: All staff and contractors sign NDAs
• Vendor Due Diligence: We carefully vet all third-party service providers for security standards

How Long We Keep Your Data

We don't keep your data forever - just as long as we need it. Here's our retention schedule:

After the retention period expires, we securely delete or anonymize your data. If you request deletion before the retention period ends, we'll honor that unless we're legally required to keep the information.

Third-Party Links & Services

Our website might link to other sites - manufacturer websites, supplier catalogs, project references, etc. We're not responsible for their privacy practices. Once you leave our site, you're subject to their policies, so make sure to read them.

Same goes for social media. If you interact with us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or other platforms, those companies' privacy policies apply to that interaction.

Children's Privacy

Our services aren't directed at anyone under 18. We don't knowingly collect personal information from minors. If you're a parent and discover that your child has provided us with personal info, please contact us and we'll delete it promptly.

Changes to This Policy

We might update this privacy policy from time to time as our practices evolve or laws change. When we do:

• We'll update the "Last Updated" date at the top
• For major changes, we'll notify you via email or a prominent notice on our website
• We'll give you a reasonable opportunity to review the changes before they take effect

We encourage you to check this page periodically to stay informed about how we're protecting your information.

Questions or Concerns?

If you've got questions about this privacy policy, want to exercise your rights, or have concerns