Acceptable Use Policy

1. Purpose

This Acceptable Use Policy outlines the standards of conduct expected from all Karipe platform users to maintain a safe, professional, and productive environment for all members of our community.

2. Acceptable Use

For Homeowners

• Post legitimate home improvement projects with accurate descriptions
• Provide clear project requirements and realistic timelines
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with contractors
• Make payments through the platform's secure escrow system
• Provide fair, honest, and constructive reviews upon project completion
• Report any concerns or violations through appropriate channels

For Contractors

• Maintain accurate profile information, credentials, and certifications
• Submit honest, competitive, and realistic bids
• Complete projects according to agreed specifications and industry standards
• Communicate professionally and promptly with homeowners
• Use platform payment processes and respect escrow terms
• Maintain appropriate licensing and insurance as required by law

3. Prohibited Activities

General Prohibitions

• Harassment, abuse, threats, or intimidating behavior toward other users
• Fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading practices
• Circumventing platform fees, payment systems, or security measures
• Posting false, misleading, or inaccurate information
• Violating intellectual property rights or confidentiality agreements
• Engaging in any illegal activities or promoting illegal behavior
• Spam, unsolicited communications, or promotional content unrelated to legitimate projects

Specific Prohibitions for Contractors

• Misrepresenting qualifications, credentials, or past work experience
• Requesting or accepting payment outside the platform's escrow system
• Subcontracting work without proper disclosure and homeowner consent
• Bidding on projects outside your actual service area or expertise
• Creating multiple accounts to circumvent negative reviews or restrictions
• Sharing personal contact information to bypass platform communications

Specific Prohibitions for Homeowners

• Posting fake projects or providing false project requirements
• Discriminating against contractors based on protected characteristics
• Requesting services outside the platform's intended scope
• Withholding payment for completed work without valid justification
• Attempting to hire contractors outside the platform to avoid fees
• Posting negative reviews based on personal bias rather than work quality

4. Content Standards

User-Generated Content

• Must be truthful, accurate, and relevant to the platform's purpose
• No offensive, discriminatory, hateful, or inappropriate material
• Respect others' privacy, confidentiality, and personal information
• No spam, promotional content, or materials unrelated to legitimate projects
• Comply with all applicable laws and regulations

Photos and Media

• Only upload content you own or have explicit permission to use
• No inappropriate, offensive, or non-relevant images
• Photos must accurately represent the project, work performed, or property
• Respect homeowner privacy and property confidentiality in shared images

5. Consequences of Violations

Progressive Enforcement

• First violation: Written warning with explanation of policy violation
• Second violation: Temporary account suspension (7-30 days)
• Third violation: Permanent account termination

Immediate Termination Offenses

Severe violations may result in immediate permanent account termination:

• Fraud, theft, or illegal financial activity
• Serious harassment, threats, or abusive behavior
• Multiple serious policy violations
• Activities that pose safety risks to users

6. Reporting Violations

Report policy violations through:

• Platform Reporting: Use the "Report" feature on any profile or project
• Email: abuse@karipe.com
• Support: Contact customer support through the help center

7. Platform Monitoring

We use AI-powered tools and human review to monitor platform activity and detect policy violations while respecting user privacy and maintaining transparent enforcement practices.

8. Appeal Process

If you believe your account was suspended or terminated in error, you may appeal by contacting appeals@karipe.com within 30 days of the action. Include relevant evidence and a detailed explanation of your appeal.

9. Policy Updates

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in our platform, legal requirements, or community standards. Continued use of the platform constitutes acceptance of any modifications.