Last updated: January 2024
Look, we get it - nobody actually enjoys reading privacy policies. But here's the thing: we're pretty serious about protecting your personal info.
At Dusk Valat Quinthor Architecture, we've built our reputation on trust and transparency. That applies to how we handle your data too. This policy lays out exactly what information we collect when you visit our site or work with us, what we do with it, and how we keep it safe. We're based in Toronto and operate under Canadian privacy laws (PIPEDA, for those keeping track), which means you've got solid protections.
Whether you're browsing our portfolio, reaching out for a consultation, or we're already deep into designing your dream space - this policy covers it all. We've tried to keep the legal jargon to a minimum, but if something's unclear, just give us a shout.
When you fill out our contact forms, request a consultation, or send us project inquiries, we'll collect stuff like:
When you browse our website, we automatically gather some technical data that helps us understand how people use the site:
Once we're working together, we'll naturally collect more detailed info about your project - property surveys, design preferences, contractor details, municipal permits, and all the nitty-gritty that goes into bringing your vision to life. This is all part of delivering the service you've hired us for.
We're not in the business of collecting data for the sake of it. Everything we gather serves a real purpose:
Responding to your inquiries, scheduling consultations, developing designs, coordinating with contractors and suppliers, managing timelines, and keeping you updated throughout the process. Pretty straightforward stuff.
Understanding which parts of our site people find useful, fixing technical issues, and making the overall experience better. If everyone's bouncing from a particular page, that tells us something needs work.
Maintaining records for accounting purposes, meeting our professional obligations as licensed architects, and complying with building code documentation requirements. Nothing exciting, but necessary.
Sending occasional updates about our work, design trends we're excited about, or new services - but only if you've opted in. You can unsubscribe anytime, no hard feelings.
We're not selling your info to random third parties. That's not our game. But running an architecture firm means working with various partners and service providers:
Structural engineers, contractors, suppliers, and other professionals directly involved in your project. They need relevant details to do their job properly.
Cloud storage providers, email services, website hosting, and project management tools. These folks help us keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
Municipal building departments, heritage boards, and regulatory bodies when required for permits and approvals. Can't skip this part, unfortunately.
If we're legally obligated to disclose information (court orders, legal proceedings, etc.), we'll comply - but we'll let you know unless we're prohibited from doing so.
All our partners are bound by confidentiality agreements and are required to handle your data responsibly. We don't work with anyone who doesn't take privacy seriously.
Under Canadian privacy law (and basic human decency), you've got solid rights when it comes to your personal information:
Request a copy of what personal information we have on file. We'll provide it in a readable format within 30 days.
If we've got something wrong - wrong address, outdated phone number, whatever - let us know and we'll fix it promptly.
Request deletion of your personal info, though we might need to keep some records for legal or professional obligations (like completed project documentation).
Unsubscribe from our newsletters or promotional emails anytime. There's an unsubscribe link in every marketing email we send.
If you've given us permission to use your data for something specific, you can withdraw that consent whenever you want.
If you think we've mishandled your data, you can complain to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. We'd prefer you talk to us first, though.
Security's not just a checkbox for us. We take reasonable precautions to keep your information safe from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse:
Reality check: No system is 100% foolproof. We do our best with industry-standard security practices, but if there's ever a data breach affecting your information, we'll notify you promptly and let you know what steps we're taking to address it.
We don't hang onto your information forever. Here's our general approach:
| Type of Data | Retention Period | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Inquiry Forms | 2 years | In case you come back to us later, or for business development tracking |
| Active Project Files | Duration of project + 7 years | Professional liability requirements and warranty obligations |
| Financial Records | 7 years | Tax and accounting legal requirements in Canada |
| Marketing Lists | Until you unsubscribe | Ongoing consent for communications |
| Website Analytics | 26 months | Standard analytics retention for meaningful trend analysis |
After the retention period expires, we securely delete or anonymize the data. If you request deletion earlier, we'll honor that unless we're legally required to keep certain records.
If you've got questions about this policy, want to exercise any of your rights, or just want to chat about how we handle your data - we're here for it.
Email: info@duskvalatquinthor.info
Phone: (416) 555-0192
Mail: 425 University Avenue, Suite 1200
Toronto, ON M5G 1T6
We'll acknowledge your privacy-related inquiries within 2 business days and provide a full response within 30 days (as required by Canadian law).
For urgent matters, call us directly - we're pretty responsive.
We'll update this policy from time to time as our practices evolve or laws change. When we make significant changes, we'll let you know by email (if we have your address) or through a notice on our website. The "Last updated" date at the top will always reflect when changes were made. Continued use of our services after updates means you're cool with the revised policy.