Terms of Service

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of the Melbourne Plumbing Network website and services (collectively, the "Service"). By accessing or using our Service, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our Service.

1. Service Description

1.1 What We Do

Melbourne Plumbing Network (ABN: 21 576 580 832) operates a referral service that connects homeowners with licensed plumbers in the Melbourne area.

1.2 What We Are NOT

1.3 How Our Service Works

1. You submit your plumbing service request through our website or by phone
2. We match you with up to 3 licensed plumbers from our network
3. Plumbers contact you directly to provide quotes
4. You choose which plumber (if any) you wish to hire
5. You enter into a direct contract with the plumber (not with us)
6. The plumber performs the work and you pay them directly

2. User Obligations

By using our Service, you agree to:

• Provide accurate, complete, and current information in your service request
• Be contactable via the phone number and email address provided
• Treat referred plumbers with respect and professionalism
• Not use our Service for fraudulent, illegal, or abusive purposes
• Not submit duplicate or spam requests
• Not harass, threaten, or abuse our staff or referred plumbers
• Comply with all applicable Australian laws and regulations

3. No Guarantees or Warranties

3.1 Service Availability

We strive to match you with suitable plumbers, but we do not guarantee:

• That plumbers will be available at the time you need them
• That plumbers will accept your job
• Any specific response time from plumbers
• That you will receive exactly 3 quotes (may be fewer if limited availability)

3.2 Plumber Performance

While we vet plumbers before adding them to our network, we do not guarantee or warrant:

• The quality, timeliness, or safety of work performed by plumbers
• That plumbers will honor their quotes or complete work as promised
• That plumbers will comply with building codes or regulations
• That you will be satisfied with the plumber's work

3.3 Website Accuracy

Our Service is provided "as is" and "as available." We make no warranties about the accuracy, reliability, or availability of our website or information provided through our Service.

4. Limitation of Liability

• Property Damage: Any damage to your property caused by plumbers, including water damage, structural damage, or damage to fixtures and fittings
• Personal Injury: Any injury or death caused by plumbers or their work
• Poor Workmanship: Defective, incomplete, or substandard work performed by plumbers
• Financial Loss: Any financial loss arising from plumbers' work, quotes, delays, or failure to complete work
• Consequential Damages: Indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages of any kind
• Plumber Conduct: Any acts, omissions, negligence, fraud, or misconduct by plumbers

Your contract is directly with the plumber, not with us. Any disputes, claims, or issues arising from plumbing work must be directed to the plumber who performed the work.

5. Your Responsibilities When Hiring a Plumber

It is YOUR responsibility to:

• Verify the plumber's license with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) before hiring
• Request and review proof of insurance (public liability and workers compensation)
• Obtain written quotes and written contracts before work begins
• Ensure compliance with building permits and regulations (if required)
• Supervise or inspect work as you see fit
• Make payments directly to the plumber (never pay us for plumbing work)
• Resolve any disputes or issues directly with the plumber

6. Payment Terms

6.1 Our Service is Free

We do NOT charge homeowners for our referral service. Our Service is 100% free to you.

6.2 Payment to Plumbers

You pay the plumber directly for their work. Payment terms, methods, and amounts are between you and the plumber. We are not involved in any payments.

7. Privacy

Your use of our Service is also governed by our Privacy Policy. By using our Service, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as described in the Privacy Policy.

8. Intellectual Property

All content on our website (text, graphics, logos, images, software) is the property of Melbourne Plumbing Network or its licensors and is protected by Australian and international copyright laws.

You may not reproduce, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from our website content without our written permission.

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Melbourne Plumbing Network, its directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, and expenses (including legal fees) arising from:

• Your use of our Service
• Your violation of these Terms
• Your violation of any third-party rights
• Any dispute between you and a plumber

10. Termination

We reserve the right to:

• Refuse service to anyone for any reason
• Terminate or suspend your access to our Service at any time without notice
• Remove any service request that violates these Terms

Reasons for termination may include (but are not limited to): fraudulent requests, abusive behavior, violation of these Terms, or suspected illegal activity.

11. Dispute Resolution

11.1 Disputes with Plumbers

Any disputes regarding plumbing work, quotes, payments, or quality must be resolved directly with the plumber. We recommend:

• Contacting the plumber first to resolve the issue
• If unresolved, contacting the Victorian Building Authority (VBA): 1300 815 127
• Seeking advice from Consumer Affairs Victoria: 1300 558 181
• Consulting a lawyer if necessary

11.2 Disputes with Us

If you have a dispute with Melbourne Plumbing Network regarding our Service, please contact us at hello@melbourneplumbingnetwork.com.au or call 03 7074 8841 to discuss resolution.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. Any disputes arising from these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Victoria.

13. Australian Consumer Law

Nothing in these Terms excludes, restricts, or modifies any consumer guarantees, rights, or remedies that you may have under the Australian Consumer Law or other applicable laws that cannot be excluded.

14. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The "Last Updated" date at the top indicates when these Terms were last revised. Continued use of our Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms.

15. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.