- Legal
Terms of Service
The terms that govern our relationship — from initial inquiry through project completion and warranty. Written to be clear, not confusing.
- Last Updated
- Effective Date
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- Section 01
Introduction & Acceptance
These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your use of the website at planbuildus.com and any services provided by PlanBuild (“PlanBuild”, “we”, “us”, “our”). PlanBuild is a licensed home improvement contractor operating in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, registered under the Pennsylvania Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA), 73 P.S. § 517.1 et seq.
By accessing our website, requesting a consultation, entering into a contract with us, or otherwise engaging our services, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use our website or services.
These Terms should be read together with our Privacy Policy. In the event of a conflict between these Terms and a signed written contract for a specific project, the terms of the signed contract prevail.
Website terms and project contracts are two different things. These Terms cover general website use and our overall relationship. Your specific project is governed by a separate signed contract that includes exact scope, pricing, and timeline.
- Section 02
Definitions
Throughout these Terms:
- "PlanBuild", "we", "us", "our" — Refers to PlanBuild, a Pennsylvania-based kitchen and bathroom design-build studio, its owners, employees, and authorized
- "You", "Client", "Homeowner" — Refers to the individual or entity accessing our website, requesting a consultation, or entering into a project contract with us.
- "Website" — The website located at planbuildus.com and any subdomains.
- "Services" — All design, consultation, remodeling, construction, project management, and warranty services PlanBuild provides.
- "Contract" — A written, signed agreement between PlanBuild and Client for a specific project.
- "HICPA" — The Pennsylvania Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, 73 P.S. § 517.1 et seq.
- "Project" — The scope of remodeling work described in a specific Contract.
- Section 03
Website Use
Permitted Use
You may use our website for legitimate purposes: browsing our services, viewing project portfolios, learning about our process, requesting consultations, and communicating with us. All content on this website is provided for informational purposes only.
Prohibited Use
You agree not to:
- Use our website in any way that violates applicable federal, state, or local laws.
- Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems, networks, or data.
- Submit false, misleading, or fraudulent information through contact forms or communications.
- Scrape, copy, or reproduce our website content without written permission (except for personal reference).
- Introduce viruses, malware, or any harmful code to our systems.
- Impersonate any person or entity, including PlanBuild personnel.
- Use our website to compete with our business or solicit our clients or employees.
Accuracy of Information
We work hard to ensure the information on our website is accurate and current, but we cannot guarantee it. Pricing shown as “starting from” is illustrative — your actual project pricing depends on scope, materials, and site conditions. Photos may be recent projects, stock imagery, or design references — the source is noted where relevant.
- Section 04
Services & Scope
PlanBuild is a licensed design-build studio specializing in custom kitchen and bathroom remodeling for residential clients in Bucks County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, and Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Services include:
- Design services: In-home consultations, space planning, 3D visualizations, material selection guidance, and design revisions.
- Construction services: Demolition, framing, plumbing, electrical, tile setting, waterproofing, cabinetry installation, countertop installation, appliance integration, painting, and finish work.
- Project management: Scheduling, subcontractor coordination, material ordering, permit filing, inspection coordination, and site protection.
- Warranty service: Post-completion warranty support as described in Section 9.
Scope Limitations
Unless expressly included in a Contract, PlanBuild does not perform:
- Structural engineering, architectural design (beyond kitchens and bathrooms), or civil engineering services.
- Whole-house renovations, additions, or new construction.
- Landscaping, exterior work (except where directly connected to a kitchen or bathroom project), or roofing.
- HVAC system design or replacement (though localized modifications for a kitchen/bath project are included where needed).
- Asbestos abatement, lead paint remediation, or mold remediation (handled by licensed specialists on referral).
- Section 05
Estimates & Contracts
Initial Consultation & Estimates
Initial in-home consultations are provided free of charge, with no obligation. Preliminary estimates given during or after the consultation are for planning purposes and are not binding until a formal written proposal is issued.
Written Proposals
Formal written proposals include: itemized scope of work, materials with brand and grade specifications, fixed pricing, estimated timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms. Proposals are typically valid for 30 days from issue date, after which pricing may be re-evaluated based on current material costs.
Contracts (PA HICPA Compliance)
For all projects exceeding $500, a written Contract is required by Pennsylvania law (HICPA § 517.7). Our Contracts include, at minimum:
- PlanBuild's name, address, phone number, and Pennsylvania HIC registration number.
- Detailed description of the work to be performed.
- Total sales price for the project.
- Date the work will begin and estimated completion date.
- Description of materials to be used and equipment to be installed.
- Down payment amount and payment schedule.
- Notice of the Client's right to cancel within three business days (see Section 7).
- Signature of both PlanBuild and the Client, with dates.
Fixed-Price Guarantee
Once a Contract is signed, the total sales price is fixed. Additional charges can only occur through written and signed Change Orders (see Section 8). No surprise charges. No “verbal estimates” that grow during the project.
- Section 06
Right of Rescission
You have the right to cancel this Contract within three (3) business days of signing. This right is guaranteed by Pennsylvania law (HICPA § 517.7) and, for door-to-door sales over $25, by the Federal Trade Commission’s Cooling-Off Rule.
How To Cancel
To cancel within your three-business-day window, you must provide written notice of cancellation to PlanBuild. Written notice can be:
- A signed letter delivered in person to our studio at 1751 Mink Rd, Ottsville, PA 18942.
- A letter mailed to the address above (postmarked within the three-business-day period).
- An email to admin@planbuildus.com with subject "Contract Cancellation" (received within the three-business-day period).
- A written cancellation form provided with your Contract.
What Happens After Cancellation
If you cancel within the three-business-day period:
- Any payments you made will be refunded within 10 business days.
- Any materials delivered to your home will be picked up at PlanBuild's expense.
- The Contract is void with no further obligation to either party.
- No cancellation fees or penalties apply.
Business Days Explained
Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. If you sign on Friday, your three-business-day window closes at end of business on the following Wednesday. Weekends and holidays do not count.
Cancellation After Rescission Period
Contract cancellations after the three-business-day rescission period will be handled according to termination terms in Section 14 and may involve fees for work completed and materials ordered.
- Section 07
Timeline & Change Orders
Estimated Timeline
Your Contract specifies an estimated start date and completion date. We work hard to meet or beat these dates. However, timelines are estimates and may be affected by factors beyond our reasonable control, including:
- Municipal permit approval delays.
- Manufacturer or supplier delays (cabinets typically 6-8 weeks lead time).
- Unforeseen site conditions discovered during demolition (mold, structural issues, hidden damage).
- Change Orders requested by Client.
- Weather affecting outdoor work or material deliveries.
- Force Majeure events (Section 14).
Change Orders
Any change to the scope of work, materials, or timeline after Contract signing requires a written Change Order signed by both parties. Change Orders specify:
- Description of the change.
- Cost of the change (additional or credit).
- Impact on the project timeline.
- Signatures and date.
Verbal agreements to change scope or upgrade materials are not binding. If a PlanBuild employee or subcontractor tells you a change is “no big deal,” politely ask for it in writing. This protects both you and us.
Discovered Conditions
If during demolition we discover pre-existing conditions requiring additional work (rot, mold, code violations, undersized wiring, plumbing issues), we will stop work and present you with a Change Order describing the issue, recommended solution, and additional cost. Work resumes only after you approve the Change Order in writing.
- Section 8
Warranty
PlanBuild Workmanship Warranty
PlanBuild provides a 5-year written workmanship warranty on all labor and installation work we perform, from the date of Substantial Completion. This warranty covers:
- Cabinet installation and adjustment.
- Countertop installation and seam work.
- Tile setting and grout work (except normal grout wear from cleaning).
- Waterproofing systems (including Schluter Kerdi, RedGard, and equivalent).
- Plumbing rough-in and fixture installation.
- Electrical rough-in and fixture installation.
- Painting and finish work.
Manufacturer Warranties
Cabinetry, countertops, appliances, fixtures, and finished materials carry their manufacturer warranties (typically 1-15 years, some lifetime). Warranty documentation for these products is provided at project handover. PlanBuild will assist with warranty claims for the first year at no charge.
Warranty Exclusions
Our warranty does not cover:
- Damage caused by Client misuse, neglect, or improper cleaning.
- Damage caused by acts of nature (flooding, earthquake, severe weather).
- Damage caused by other contractors, tenants, or third parties after handover.
- Normal wear and tear (grout discoloration from cleaning, cabinet hinge adjustments after 1 year).
- Modifications or additions made by anyone other than PlanBuild.
- Client-supplied materials that fail (unless installation was defective).
- Damage from unauthorized alterations, movements, or repairs.
How To Request Warranty Service
Contact us at (215) 802-4072 or hello@planbuildus.com with your project name and description of the issue. We aim to respond within 2 business days and schedule service based on the nature of the issue. Emergency issues (active leaks, safety hazards) receive priority response.
- Section 9
Client Responsibilities
To help your project run smoothly, we ask that you:
- Provide access: Ensure PlanBuild and our subcontractors have reasonable access to your home during agreed work hours (typically 8AM-5PM, Monday-Friday).
- Secure valuables: Remove or secure jewelry, cash, small electronics, and irreplaceable items from work areas before demolition begins.
- Protect pets and children: Keep pets and young children away from active work areas for safety.
- Confirm selections: Approve material selections and design details by the deadlines specified in your Contract to avoid timeline delays.
- Make payments: Pay milestone payments within 10 days of due date to keep the project on schedule.
- Communicate promptly: Respond to questions, decision requests, and coordination emails within 2 business days.
- Not perform your own work: Do not attempt to perform your own construction, plumbing, or electrical work within the project scope during our active work. This voids warranties.
- Provide utilities: Ensure water, electricity, and reasonable HVAC (heating in winter, cooling in summer) are available for our work.
- Section 10
Force Majeure & Termination
Permit Handling
PlanBuild will apply for, coordinate, and manage all municipal permits required for your project. Permit fees are typically included in your Contract or listed as a pass-through cost. We are responsible for scheduling and passing final inspections with your township or borough.
Building Codes
All work is performed to meet or exceed the current Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), applicable International Building Code (IBC) provisions, National Electrical Code (NEC), and any additional local building codes specific to your municipality.
Historic Districts & HOAs
If your property is in a designated historic district or has HOA restrictions, additional approvals may be required. It is the Client’s responsibility to notify PlanBuild of any such restrictions before Contract signing. Additional review or approval fees may apply.
Certificate of Occupancy
Where required, we will obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or equivalent municipal approval at project completion, confirming the work meets code.
- Section 11
Intellectual Property
Website Content
All content on our website — including text, images, project photos, designs, 3D renderings, videos, logos, and layouts — is the property of PlanBuild or its licensors and is protected by U.S. copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, modify, or create derivative works without written permission.
Design Ownership
Custom designs, drawings, 3D renderings, and material specifications created by PlanBuild for your project remain the intellectual property of PlanBuild. Upon full payment of your Contract, you receive a non-exclusive license to use these deliverables for your own home. You may not share, sell, or use them to solicit competing bids.
Project Photography
PlanBuild reserves the right to photograph completed projects for use in marketing materials, our website, portfolio presentations, and social media. Client identifying information is never shared without explicit consent. Clients wishing to opt out of project photography must notify us in writing before construction begins.
Testimonials & Reviews
By providing testimonials, reviews, or written feedback to PlanBuild, you grant us a perpetual, royalty-free license to use, publish, and share your feedback in our marketing materials. You may request removal at any time by writing to hello@planbuildus.com.
- Section 12
Limitation of Liability
Insurance
PlanBuild maintains active general liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and commercial auto insurance as required by Pennsylvania law. Certificates of insurance are available on request before Contract signing.
Limitation of Damages
To the maximum extent permitted by Pennsylvania law, PlanBuild’s total liability arising from or related to any project is limited to the total Contract price paid by the Client for that specific project. This limitation applies to direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, and punitive damages.
Excluded Damages
PlanBuild is not liable for:
- Loss of enjoyment, inconvenience, or aesthetic dissatisfaction not related to defective workmanship.
- Loss of business income, rental income, or investment opportunity.
- Damage to pre-existing structural, plumbing, or electrical conditions that were not visible or reasonably discoverable at the time of Contract signing.
- Damage caused by Client-supplied materials, Client-directed changes against our recommendation, or Client interference with the work.
- Delays or damage caused by Force Majeure events (see Section 14).
Indemnification
Client agrees to indemnify and hold PlanBuild harmless from claims arising from Client-supplied information that is inaccurate, Client-directed changes against professional recommendations, or Client’s own negligence during the project.
- Section 13
Force Majeure & Termination
Force Majeure
Neither party is liable for delays or non-performance caused by events beyond reasonable control (“Force Majeure”), including but not limited to: acts of God, natural disasters, severe weather, pandemics or public health emergencies, government actions or shutdowns, war or civil unrest, labor strikes affecting suppliers, supply chain disruptions, or utility failures.
When Force Majeure occurs, the affected party will notify the other promptly, and timelines and payment schedules will be adjusted proportionally. Neither party may terminate the Contract solely due to Force Majeure until such events have continued for more than 60 days.
Termination By Client
After the three-business-day rescission period (Section 7) expires, Clients may terminate a Contract only for material breach by PlanBuild (failure to perform, extended non-communication, or code violations we refuse to correct). Written notice of the breach must be provided, and PlanBuild has 30 days to cure. If terminated for material breach after cure period, Client pays only for work satisfactorily completed to date.
Termination for convenience (without cause) after the rescission period requires Client to pay for: all work completed to date, all materials ordered (whether delivered or not), any subcontractor cancellation fees, and a reasonable overhead/lost opportunity fee not to exceed 15% of the remaining Contract balance.
Termination By PlanBuild
PlanBuild may terminate a Contract for material Client breach, including: non-payment beyond 30 days of due date, unsafe working conditions the Client refuses to correct, repeated Client interference with the work, or discovery that Client provided false material information in the Contract application.
Upon termination by PlanBuild for Client breach, Client remains responsible for all completed work, materials ordered, and reasonable damages.
- Section 14
Dispute Resolution & Governing Law
Good Faith Communication First
If a dispute arises, both parties agree to attempt resolution through direct, good-faith communication before pursuing formal proceedings. Most disputes can be resolved by talking through them.
Mediation
If direct communication does not resolve a dispute within 30 days, either party may request mediation through a neutral mediator based in Pennsylvania. Mediation fees are split equally. Mediation is non-binding but often successful.
Binding Arbitration or Court
If mediation fails, disputes may be resolved through binding arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or through Pennsylvania state or federal court, at either party’s election. Small claims (under $12,000 in Pennsylvania) may be filed in Magisterial District Court.
Governing Law
These Terms and any Contract between PlanBuild and Client are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, without regard to conflict-of-law principles. The parties consent to exclusive jurisdiction and venue in the state and federal courts located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Statute of Limitations
Any legal action arising from these Terms or a project Contract must be commenced within the applicable Pennsylvania statute of limitations period, typically four (4) years for breach of contract and two (2) years for negligence claims.
Waiver of Class Actions
To the extent permitted by law, both parties agree that any dispute will be resolved on an individual basis and not as part of a class action, collective action, or representative proceeding.
- Section 15
Contact Us
Questions about these Terms of Service? Need to send a formal notice, cancellation, or dispute communication? Reach us using any of the methods below.
Formal Notices
Questions about these Terms of Service? Need to send a formal notice, cancellation, or dispute communication? Reach us using any of the methods below.
- Email:
admin@planbuildus.com
- Phone:
215-802-4072
- Mail:
PlanBuild, 1751 Mink Rd, Ottsville, PA 18942
- PA HIC Registration:
[Registration Number To Be Added]
These Terms of Service constitute the entire agreement between PlanBuild and Client regarding website use and general service relationship. If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in full effect. These Terms are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.