Privacy Policy

Introduction

Look, we get it - nobody really enjoys reading privacy policies. But here's the thing: we actually care about your information and how it's handled. At RuneBlast Architecture, we've been designing spaces around Vancouver since way back, and we treat your data with the same respect we'd give to preserving a heritage building.

This policy lays out what info we gather when you visit our site or work with us, and more importantly, what we do (and don't do) with it. We've tried to keep the legal jargon to a minimum because honestly, architecture contracts have enough of that already.

Information We Collect

When you reach out to us or browse around our site, we might collect a few different types of information:

How We Use Your Information

We're not gonna sell your email to some random marketing company or anything sketchy like that. Here's what we actually do with your info:

• Respond to your inquiries and consultation requests - seems obvious, but we'll spell it out anyway
• Develop architectural designs and plans that actually match what you're looking for
• Send project updates, invoices, and other relevant communications about your build
• Improve our website and services based on how people interact with them
• Comply with legal obligations and professional standards (we're licensed architects, after all)
• Occasionally send newsletters about our recent projects or sustainability insights - but only if you've opted in

When We Share Data

We don't just hand out your information to anyone who asks. But there are a few situations where we might need to share it:

• Project Partners: Sometimes we work with engineers, contractors, and consultants. They might need access to project details to do their job properly.
• Service Providers: We use third-party tools for things like email hosting, project management, and website analytics. These companies are contractually bound to protect your data.
• Legal Requirements: If the law requires it or if there's a court order, we'll comply. Hopefully that never comes up though.
• Business Transfers: In the unlikely event we sell or merge the company, your information might be part of that transaction. Any new owner would be bound by this privacy policy.

Cookies and Tracking

Yeah, we use cookies - not the chocolate chip kind unfortunately. These little files help our website remember your preferences and give us insights into how folks navigate our site.

You can disable cookies in your browser settings if you want, though some features might not work as smoothly. We use both session cookies (which disappear when you close your browser) and persistent cookies (which stick around to remember you next time).

We also use Google Analytics to understand traffic patterns and improve user experience. If you're not cool with that, you can install browser extensions that block analytics tracking.

Data Security

We take security seriously - like, really seriously. Our website uses SSL encryption (that's the little padlock you see in your browser). We've got firewalls, secure servers, and regular security audits to keep your data safe.

That said, no system is 100% bulletproof. We do everything reasonable to protect your information, but we can't guarantee absolute security. If we ever experience a data breach that affects your information, we'll let you know promptly and work to fix it.

Physical documents containing sensitive info are stored in locked cabinets at our Vancouver office, and electronic files are password-protected with restricted access.

Your Rights

Under Canadian privacy laws (specifically PIPEDA), you've got some important rights when it comes to your personal information:

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

How Long We Keep Your Data

We don't keep your information forever. Here's the general breakdown:

• Active Projects: We keep all project-related data for the duration of the project plus seven years after completion. That's partly because of professional liability requirements and building codes.
• Inquiries: If you contacted us but didn't move forward with a project, we'll keep your info for about two years in case you change your mind.
• Marketing Lists: If you're on our newsletter list, we'll keep your contact info until you unsubscribe.
• Website Analytics: Technical data gets anonymized and aggregated pretty quickly, usually within 26 months.

Children's Privacy

Our services aren't directed at anyone under 18. We don't knowingly collect information from kids. If you're a parent and think your child has given us their information, please reach out and we'll delete it right away.

Policy Updates

We might update this policy from time to time as our practices evolve or laws change. When we do, we'll post the new version here and update the date at the top. If there's a major change, we'll send an email to our active clients and project contacts.

It's probably worth checking back here occasionally if you're curious about updates - though let's be honest, most people won't.

Questions or Concerns?

If you've got questions about this privacy policy or how we handle your information, we're here to chat. Seriously - we'd rather you ask than worry about it.

If you believe we've mishandled your personal information, you can also file a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. But honestly, we hope it doesn't come to that - just talk to us first and we'll work it out.