Privacy Policy

Introduction

Look, we get it - privacy policies aren't exactly riveting reading material. But here at Halcyon Valor Architecture, we actually care about how your information's handled.

This policy lays out what info we collect when you're browsing our site, reaching out for a consultation, or working with us on a project. We're based in Toronto, Ontario, and we follow Canadian privacy laws (particularly PIPEDA - the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act). We've tried to keep this straightforward and honest, because that's how we do business.

By using our website or services, you're agreeing to the practices described here. If something doesn't sit right with you, let's talk about it - our contact info's at the bottom.

Information We Collect

Stuff You Give Us Directly

When you fill out our contact form, email us, or chat on the phone, we'll collect:

• Contact details - your name, email, phone number, mailing address
• Project information - what you're looking to build, timelines, budget ranges, property details
• Communication records - emails, meeting notes, phone call summaries (we don't record calls without telling you first)
• Professional background - if you're a contractor, developer, or business partner, we might collect company info and references

Data We Collect Automatically

Our website gathers some technical stuff to help us understand how people use the site:

• Browser and device info - what browser you're using, device type, operating system
• Usage data - pages visited, time spent, links clicked, referring websites
• IP addresses and location - general geographic location (city/region level, not your exact address)
• Cookies and similar tech - more on this below

Info From Other Sources

Occasionally, we might receive information about you from third parties - like if a mutual contact refers you to us, or if we're collaborating with other professionals on your project. We only use this info in ways that align with their privacy practices and applicable laws.

How We Use Your Information

We're not in the business of hoarding data for no reason. Here's what we actually do with it:

Who We Share Data With

We're not selling your info to random companies. Here's the complete picture:

We don't sell or rent your personal information to anyone. Period. That's not our business model, and frankly, it's a sketchy practice we want no part of.

Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Like most websites these days, we use cookies - small text files stored on your device. Here's the breakdown:

Most browsers let you control cookie settings. Check your browser's help section if you want to block or delete cookies, though some site features might not work as smoothly.

We don't use invasive tracking or behavioral advertising networks. Our focus is architecture, not surveillance.

Security Measures

We take reasonable steps to protect your information from unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction. Here's what that means in practice:

• Encrypted connections - our website uses SSL/TLS encryption (that's the little padlock in your browser)
• Secure storage - digital files are stored on password-protected, encrypted servers
• Limited access - only team members who need specific information for their work can access it
• Regular backups - so we don't lose your project data if something goes wrong
• Physical security - our office has controlled access, and physical documents are stored securely

Your Rights & Choices

Under Canadian privacy law, you've got several rights regarding your personal information:

To exercise any of these rights, just reach out using the contact info below. We'll respond within 30 days. If you're not satisfied with how we handle a privacy concern, you can file a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.

How Long We Keep Your Data

We don't keep information longer than necessary. Here's our general approach:

• Project files - we're required to keep architectural drawings and project documentation for at least 10 years after project completion (that's an OAA requirement)
• Financial records - kept for 7 years to comply with tax laws
• Marketing contacts - if you haven't engaged with our emails in 3 years, we'll remove you from the list
• Website analytics - typically retained for 26 months, then aggregated or deleted
• Inquiry data - if you contact us but don't move forward with a project, we'll keep your info for about 2 years in case you circle back

Once the retention period's up, we'll securely delete or anonymize the data. For physical documents, that means shredding. For digital files, secure deletion methods.

Questions or Concerns?

If you've got questions about this privacy policy, want to exercise your rights, or just want to chat about how we handle data, we're here to talk.