Look, We Get It - Privacy Matters
Nobody really reads these things, but we're gonna be straight with you anyway.
At Zaparalo Quintho Architecture, we're not in the business of selling your info or doing shady stuff with your data. We're architects - we build spaces, not advertising profiles. This policy breaks down what info we grab when you work with us or check out our website, and more importantly, what we actually do with it.
We're based in Toronto, Ontario, which means we follow Canadian privacy laws (PIPEDA, if you're curious). But honestly, even if the law didn't make us, we'd still treat your information with respect because that's just how we roll.
What Information We Actually Collect
Stuff You Tell Us
When you reach out for a consultation or project inquiry, we'll ask for:
- Your name (obviously)
- Email and phone number
- Property address if you've got a project in mind
- Project details - what you're dreaming up
- Budget ranges (no judgment, we work with various scales)
Technical Bits
Like most websites, we automatically pick up:
- IP address and general location
- Browser type and device info
- Which pages you visit and how long you stick around
- Where you came from (Google, social media, etc.)
- Timestamps of your visits
How We Use Your Info
We're not gonna beat around the bush here. Your information helps us do our job better and keep things running smoothly. Here's the breakdown:
When you're working with us on a project, we need your contact details to send proposals, share design iterations, schedule site visits, and generally keep you in the loop. We'll also use your project info to actually, you know, design your space and make sure it fits what you're after.
We've gotta keep records for contracts, invoicing, and building permit applications. Architecture's a regulated profession in Ontario, so there's paperwork we're legally required to maintain. We also need documentation for liability insurance purposes - it's not exciting, but it's necessary.
Website analytics help us figure out what people are actually interested in. If everyone's checking out our heritage restoration work, we know that's resonating. If nobody's reading our blog posts, well, maybe we need better topics. It's all about making our site more useful for folks like you.
If you've worked with us before, we might reach out once in a blue moon with project updates or relevant architectural insights. But we're not gonna spam you weekly with newsletters - we've got buildings to design. You can opt out anytime, no hard feelings.
Who We Share Data With (Spoiler: Not Many)
Bottom line: We don't sell your information. Period. That's not our business model.
That said, we do work with some third parties to get stuff done:
Service Providers
Our email hosting, website hosting, cloud storage for project files - these companies process data on our behalf but they're contractually bound to keep it confidential.
Project Consultants
Structural engineers, contractors, building officials - we'll share relevant project info with the team that needs it to complete your work. They're bound by professional standards too.
Legal Requirements
If we're legally required to disclose info (court order, regulatory request, etc.), we'll comply. But we'll let you know first unless we're prohibited from doing so.
Portfolio Use
We love showcasing our work, but we always ask permission before featuring your project in our portfolio or marketing materials. Your space, your call.
Cookies & Tracking (The Digital Crumbs)
Yeah, we use cookies - not the chocolate chip kind, unfortunately. These are small files that help our website function and remember your preferences.
| Cookie Type |
Purpose |
Duration |
| Essential |
Keep the site working properly - these can't be disabled without breaking stuff |
Session |
| Analytics |
Help us understand how people use the site so we can make it better |
1-2 years |
| Preferences |
Remember your settings and choices |
1 year |
You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some features might not work as smoothly. Most browsers let you pick and choose which types of cookies you're comfortable with.
Your Rights (Because It's Your Data)
Under Canadian privacy law, you've got rights when it comes to your personal information. Here's what you can do:
Access Your Data
Ask us what information we've got on file about you. We'll send you a copy within 30 days.
Correct Mistakes
If we've got something wrong, let us know and we'll fix it right away. Typos happen.
Delete Your Info
Want us to erase your data? We'll do it, unless we're legally required to keep it for certain periods.
Withdraw Consent
Changed your mind about something you agreed to? No problem, just tell us.
Lodge a Complaint
If you think we've mishandled your data, you can complain to the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.
Port Your Data
Need your info in a format you can take elsewhere? We'll export it for you.
How We Keep Your Data Safe
Look, we're not a tech company, but we take security seriously. We've got measures in place to protect your information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss.
Technical Safeguards
- SSL encryption for data transmission
- Secure cloud storage with encryption
- Regular software updates and patches
- Firewall protection on our systems
Organizational Measures
- Limited access - only staff who need it
- Confidentiality agreements with team
- Regular privacy training for staff
- Secure disposal of old records
That said, no system is 100% foolproof. We do our best, but if there's ever a breach, we'll let you know promptly and tell you what happened and what we're doing about it.
How Long We Keep Your Stuff
We don't hoard data forever. Here's generally how long we hang onto different types of info:
- Active project files: Duration of project plus 7 years (it's an architectural regulation thing)
- Inquiry forms from non-clients: 2 years, then deleted if no further contact
- Financial records: 7 years (tax law requirement)
- Website analytics: 26 months rolling
- Email correspondence: Varies based on relevance, but we don't keep old newsletters and casual stuff indefinitely
Kids' Privacy
Our website and services aren't aimed at anyone under 18. We don't knowingly collect information from minors. If you're a parent and think your kid's given us their info, give us a shout and we'll delete it immediately.
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 date at the top and post the revised version here. For major changes, we'll send an email to our active clients. Otherwise, checking back here occasionally is a good idea if you're curious.