Community Guidelines and Standards of Conduct

Article I: Foundational Principles and Incorporation

1.1 Statement of Core Principles

These Guidelines are predicated upon five foundational principles that shall inform the interpretation and application of all provisions herein and shall guide the conduct of all Users in their interactions on the Platform:

(a) Respect: All Users shall treat other Users with dignity, courtesy, and professionalism, regardless of differences in background, experience level, socioeconomic status, cultural practices, or nature of disagreement. Respect for persons is non-negotiable and mandatory.

(b) Honesty: All Users shall provide accurate, truthful, and complete information in their profiles, project descriptions, quotations, communications, and evidence submissions. Transparency and truthfulness are foundational to trust and are required at all times.

(c) Accountability: All Users shall honor their commitments, take responsibility for the quality and timeliness of their work or requirements, follow through on agreements, and accept consequences for their actions or failures to act.

(d) Safety: All Users shall prioritize physical safety, financial security, and emotional well-being in all interactions and transactions. Users shall report unsafe conditions, behaviors, or threats immediately and shall not engage in conduct that creates risks to others.

(e) Fairness: All Users shall engage in good-faith negotiations, avoid exploitative or predatory practices, deal fairly and equitably with others, and recognize that mutually beneficial outcomes serve the long-term interests of the entire community.

1.2 Binding Nature and Incorporation by Reference

These Guidelines constitute a binding contract between CLÖCKH and each User, and are incorporated by reference into the CLÖCKH Terms of Service (the "Terms"), which Terms are available at getclockh.com/terms. By creating an Account, accessing the Platform, submitting quotations, accepting projects, or engaging in any transaction or interaction via the Platform, Users expressly acknowledge and agree that they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Guidelines in their entirety. Violations of these Guidelines constitute violations of the Terms and may result in suspension or termination of Account access as provided in the Terms.

1.3 Scope of Application

These Guidelines apply to all conduct occurring on or through the Platform, including but not limited to: profile creation and maintenance; project posting and quotation submission; communications via the Platform's messaging system; evidence uploads and milestone verification procedures; reviews and ratings; dispute resolution proceedings; and any other interactions or activities conducted via the Platform. Additionally, these Guidelines may apply to off-Platform conduct that directly affects the Platform community, such as: solicitation of Users to transact outside the Platform; harassment or threats directed at Users via external communication channels; or fraud schemes that utilize the Platform as a component or target.

1.4 Amendments

CLÖCKH reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to modify, amend, supplement, or replace these Guidelines at any time. Material changes to these Guidelines shall be communicated to Users via email notification or prominent in-app notice, with such changes taking effect thirty (30) days following notice unless a shorter period is required by law or necessary for immediate implementation to address security, safety, or legal compliance concerns. Users' continued use of the Platform following the effective date of amendments constitutes acceptance of the revised Guidelines.

1.5 Relationship to Other Policies

These Guidelines supplement and are in addition to the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Refund and Cancellation Policy. In the event of any conflict between these Guidelines and other policies, the Terms of Service shall control except where these Guidelines expressly state that they supersede or modify specific provisions of the Terms. All policies should be read together as forming a comprehensive framework governing use of the Platform.

Article II: Prohibited Conduct

2.1 Fraud and Misrepresentation

Users are prohibited from engaging in any fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading conduct, including but not limited to: (a) providing false or fabricated credentials, licenses, certifications, or qualifications; (b) misrepresenting work experience, portfolio items, or past projects (including using photos of work performed by others); (c) creating fake accounts or multiple accounts to manipulate ratings, reviews, or trust scores; (d) submitting false evidence in milestone verification or dispute resolution proceedings; (e) falsely claiming to have performed work that was not performed or was performed inadequately; (f) misrepresenting project requirements, site conditions, or material facts to induce acceptance of quotes; (g) engaging in identity fraud or impersonating another person or entity; (h) providing stolen, invalid, or unauthorized payment methods; or (i) any other conduct involving dishonesty, deception, or material misrepresentation.

2.2 Harassment, Threats, and Abusive Conduct

Users are prohibited from engaging in harassment, threats, intimidation, or abusive conduct toward other Users, including but not limited to: (a) sending threatening, intimidating, or menacing communications; (b) making explicit or implicit threats of violence, harm, or property damage; (c) engaging in persistent, unwanted contact after being asked to cease communication; (d) posting or sharing personal information about other Users without consent (doxxing); (e) making false accusations of criminal conduct, fraud, or other serious misconduct; (f) using profane, vulgar, or obscene language in a manner intended to demean, insult, or offend; (g) engaging in sexual harassment or making unwanted sexual advances; (h) stalking, following, or monitoring Users' online or offline activities; or (i) encouraging or inciting others to engage in harassment or abuse.

2.3 Discrimination and Hate Speech

CLÖCKH is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful community. Users are prohibited from engaging in discrimination or hate speech based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Prohibited conduct includes but is not limited to: (a) refusing to transact with Users based on protected characteristics; (b) using slurs, epithets, or derogatory language targeting protected groups; (c) posting content that promotes hatred, violence, or discrimination against protected groups; (d) making stereotypical assumptions or generalizations about Users based on protected characteristics; or (e) creating or maintaining a hostile environment for Users belonging to protected groups.

2.4 Illegal Activity

Users are prohibited from using the Platform to facilitate, promote, or engage in illegal activity, including but not limited to: (a) offering or soliciting illegal services or goods; (b) money laundering or other financial crimes; (c) tax evasion or fraud; (d) violation of export controls, trade sanctions, or embargoes; (e) trafficking in counterfeit goods or stolen property; (f) unauthorized practice of licensed professions; (g) violation of building codes, safety regulations, or permit requirements; (h) employment law violations including wage theft or misclassification of workers; (i) intellectual property infringement; or (j) any other conduct that violates federal, state, local, or international laws or regulations.

2.5 Platform Manipulation and Abuse

Users are prohibited from manipulating, exploiting, or abusing Platform features, systems, or policies, including but not limited to: (a) creating multiple accounts to evade restrictions, manipulate ratings, or abuse referral or promotional programs; (b) colluding with other Users to artificially inflate ratings or reviews; (c) manipulating search rankings or visibility through fraudulent means; (d) exploiting technical vulnerabilities or bugs for personal gain; (e) using automated systems, bots, or scripts to interact with the Platform without authorization; (f) circumventing payment processing to avoid Service Fees; (g) soliciting Users to transact outside the Platform to evade fees or accountability; (h) initiating frivolous or bad-faith disputes to avoid payment for legitimate work; or (i) any other conduct that undermines the integrity, fairness, or proper functioning of the Platform.

2.6 Safety Violations

Users are prohibited from engaging in conduct that creates safety risks, including but not limited to: (a) performing work in violation of safety regulations or industry standards; (b) using unsafe equipment, materials, or methods; (c) creating hazardous conditions on work sites; (d) failing to warn of known hazards or dangerous conditions; (e) performing work while impaired by drugs or alcohol; (f) bringing weapons to work sites without authorization and legitimate need; (g) engaging in conduct that creates risk of injury, property damage, or financial loss to others; or (h) failing to take reasonable precautions to protect the safety of others.

2.7 Child Safety

CLÖCKH has zero tolerance for any conduct that endangers children. Users are strictly prohibited from: (a) sexualizing, exploiting, or abusing minors in any manner; (b) sharing, distributing, or soliciting child sexual abuse material; (c) grooming or attempting to establish inappropriate relationships with minors; (d) using the Platform to facilitate crimes against children; or (e) any other conduct that violates child safety laws or creates risk to children. Violations will result in immediate permanent Account termination, reporting to law enforcement and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), and full cooperation with criminal investigations.

Article III: Communication Standards

3.1 Professional Communication Requirements

All communications conducted via the Platform's messaging system or other communication channels must adhere to professional standards. Users should: (a) use clear, respectful, and courteous language; (b) respond to messages in a timely manner (ideally within 24-48 hours); (c) provide substantive responses that address questions or concerns raised; (d) avoid excessive or harassing communications; (e) maintain professional boundaries; and (f) focus on project-related matters rather than personal topics unrelated to the transaction.

3.2 Clarity and Transparency

Users should communicate clearly and transparently about all material aspects of projects, including: (a) scope of work and deliverables; (b) pricing and payment terms; (c) timelines and schedules; (d) materials and methods to be used; (e) assumptions, limitations, or exclusions; (f) changes to original plans or agreements; (g) problems, delays, or issues that arise; and (h) any other information that affects the other party's expectations or decision-making. Ambiguous, vague, or evasive communication creates misunderstandings and disputes.

3.3 Documentation and Record-Keeping

Users should document important communications, agreements, and decisions via the Platform's messaging system. Key items to document include: (a) clarifications of scope or specifications; (b) approvals of material selections, designs, or methodologies; (c) agreements to scope changes or price adjustments; (d) acknowledgment of delays, problems, or issues; (e) agreements to milestone approval or payment release; and (f) any other matters that may be relevant to project completion or dispute resolution. The Platform's messaging system provides timestamped records that may be used as evidence in disputes.

3.4 Prohibited Communication Practices

Users are prohibited from: (a) using profane, vulgar, or offensive language; (b) making threats, insults, or personal attacks; (c) sharing personal contact information with intent to circumvent the Platform; (d) soliciting Users to transact outside the Platform; (e) spamming Users with excessive or repetitive messages; (f) sharing sensitive personal or financial information via unsecured channels; (g) communicating on behalf of another person without authorization; or (h) using the Platform's communication tools for purposes unrelated to transactions (such as advertising, solicitation, or social networking).

Article IV: Transaction Integrity and Payment Practices

4.1 Honest Pricing and Quotations

Service Providers must provide honest, realistic, and complete quotations. Prohibited practices include: (a) artificially low "teaser" quotes intended to win contracts followed by numerous change orders or hidden fees; (b) quote amounts that do not reflect true costs and lead to demands for additional payment; (c) omitting material costs or requirements from quotes with intent to surprise Clients with additional charges; (d) bait-and-switch tactics where quoted scope differs materially from scope intended to be performed; or (e) any other deceptive pricing practices. Clients must also provide honest information about budget, timeline, and requirements to enable Service Providers to quote accurately.

4.2 Milestone Integrity

Both parties must honor the milestone-based payment system and must not abuse milestone procedures. Service Providers must: (a) only submit milestone completion requests when work is genuinely complete according to Project Contract specifications; (b) provide accurate evidence of completion; (c) not falsify or manipulate photographic or documentary evidence; and (d) not pressure Clients to approve milestones prematurely. Clients must: (a) review milestone completion requests promptly and in good faith; (b) only dispute milestones when there are legitimate quality or completion concerns; (c) not withhold approval to extract additional work beyond contractual requirements; and (d) not use disputes as leverage for unrelated demands.

4.3 Prohibition on Payment Circumvention

Users are strictly prohibited from circumventing the Platform's payment processing to avoid Service Fees. Prohibited conduct includes: (a) arranging to transact outside the Platform after initial connection via the Platform; (b) requesting or providing external payment methods (cash, bank transfers, payment apps) to bypass the Platform; (c) understating project value to reduce Service Fees; (d) structuring transactions to avoid fee thresholds; or (e) any other conduct intended to evade payment of Service Fees. Service Fees are essential to Platform operation and attempts to evade them undermine the Platform's sustainability and constitute breach of contract.

4.4 Good Faith in Disputes

When disputes arise, both parties must participate in good faith in the dispute resolution process. This requires: (a) providing complete, accurate, and truthful evidence; (b) responding promptly to requests for information or clarification; (c) engaging constructively in attempts to resolve disputes amicably; (d) accepting reasonable compromise solutions; (e) not using disputes as leverage for outcomes beyond what is fair and equitable; and (f) accepting CLÖCKH's mediation determinations absent grounds for arbitration. Frivolous, bad-faith, or retaliatory disputes waste resources and harm the other party.

Article V: Best Practices for Clients

5.1 Clear Project Descriptions and Requirements

Clients bear responsibility for providing clear, complete, and accurate project descriptions that enable Service Providers to understand requirements and provide realistic quotations. Best practices include: (a) providing detailed descriptions of work to be performed, including scope, specifications, quality expectations, and deliverables; (b) including accurate measurements, dimensions, or quantities; (c) disclosing all relevant site conditions, constraints, or challenges; (d) attaching reference photos, plans, or examples to illustrate desired outcomes; (e) specifying preferred materials, brands, or quality levels where applicable; (f) communicating timeline expectations and any deadline constraints; (g) disclosing budget ranges or constraints to help Service Providers determine if they can meet requirements within budget; and (h) being available to answer Service Provider questions or provide clarifications during the quotation phase.

5.2 Reasonable Expectations

Clients should maintain reasonable expectations regarding pricing, timelines, and quality. Factors to consider include: (a) quality work costs money—unrealistically low budgets will attract unqualified providers or result in substandard work; (b) timelines must account for material procurement, weather conditions, permit processes, and other factors beyond Service Provider control; (c) minor imperfections or variations are normal in many types of work and do not constitute defects; (d) changes to scope during project execution typically increase costs and timelines; (e) Service Providers are skilled professionals deserving of fair compensation and respectful treatment; and (f) perfection is often unattainable and pursuing it may result in diminishing returns and project delays.

5.3 Property Access and Site Preparation

Clients must: (a) provide Service Providers with timely access to property or work sites as agreed; (b) ensure that sites are reasonably accessible and safe for Service Providers to work; (c) remove obstacles, belongings, or hazards that could interfere with work or create safety risks; (d) disclose any known hazards, dangerous conditions, or access limitations; (e) provide access to utilities (water, electricity) if needed for work; (f) secure any necessary approvals from landlords, homeowner associations, or other authorities; (g) ensure that pets are secured or removed from work areas; and (h) be present or available during scheduled work times if their presence is required for approvals, payments, or decision-making.

5.4 Communication and Responsiveness

Clients should: (a) respond promptly to Service Provider messages, questions, or requests for clarification (ideally within 24-48 hours); (b) provide requested information, approvals, or decisions in a timely manner to avoid delaying projects; (c) notify Service Providers promptly if plans change or if cancellation is being considered; (d) maintain professional, respectful tone even when frustrated or dissatisfied; (e) focus feedback on specific, actionable issues rather than vague complaints; and (f) communicate concerns or problems as soon as they arise rather than waiting until project completion to raise issues.

5.5 Fair Treatment of Service Providers

Clients should treat Service Providers with respect and fairness by: (a) paying agreed prices promptly upon completion of work; (b) not withholding payment as leverage for demands beyond the Project Contract; (c) not threatening negative reviews unless legitimate refunds are provided; (d) recognizing Service Providers' expertise and deferring to their professional judgment on technical matters; (e) not making unreasonable demands or expecting Service Providers to work beyond agreed scope without additional compensation; (f) providing honest, balanced reviews that acknowledge both strengths and weaknesses; and (g) recommending Service Providers to others when they deliver quality work.

5.6 Review and Rating Integrity

When submitting reviews and ratings of Service Providers, Clients should: (a) base reviews on objective facts and actual experiences; (b) provide specific, constructive feedback about work quality, professionalism, communication, and timeliness; (c) acknowledge positive aspects even when overall experience was mixed; (d) avoid exaggeration or hyperbole; (e) focus on issues material to project success rather than minor subjective preferences; and (f) maintain professional, respectful tone even when expressing dissatisfaction. Prohibited practices include: (a) posting false reviews that materially misrepresent Service Provider performance; (b) exaggerating minor issues to create false impressions; (c) posting negative reviews as retaliation for Service Providers exercising legitimate rights; (d) threatening negative reviews as leverage for refunds or concessions; or (e) coordinating with others to post multiple negative reviews to harm Service Provider reputation.

Article VI: Best Practices for Service Providers

6.1 Professional Presentation and Accurate Profiles

Service Providers bear responsibility for ensuring that their profiles accurately represent their qualifications, capabilities, and current business status. Best practices include: (a) uploading current photographs of completed work to portfolio galleries, ensuring that all images authentically represent work personally performed (not stock photos or work performed by others); (b) maintaining up-to-date listings of credentials, certifications, and licenses, including license numbers, issuing authorities, and expiration dates where applicable; (c) accurately describing areas of expertise, types of services offered, and geographic service areas; (d) updating availability status to reflect current capacity to accept new projects; (e) revising pricing and service descriptions as business circumstances change; and (f) removing outdated information, expired credentials, or obsolete service offerings.

6.2 Realistic, Detailed Quotations

When submitting quotations in response to Client project postings, Service Providers should: (a) carefully review the full project description and requirements before preparing quotations; (b) provide itemized quotations that break down costs by labor, materials, equipment, permits, and other components; (c) quote realistic prices that reflect true costs and value of work; (d) specify what is and is not included in quoted scope and price; (e) provide realistic timelines accounting for material procurement, weather delays, permitting, and other foreseeable factors; and (f) honor quoted prices, scopes, and timelines once quotes are accepted, except where unforeseen circumstances legitimately necessitate changes.

6.3 Quality Service Delivery

Upon acceptance of a Project Contract, Service Providers assume binding obligation to perform work: (a) in accordance with specifications and quality standards set forth in the Project Contract; (b) using materials of the type and quality specified or, if not specified, materials of industry-standard quality; (c) employing workmanship that meets or exceeds industry standards; (d) in compliance with all applicable building codes, safety regulations, and legal requirements; (e) within the timeline specified, subject to reasonable extensions for force majeure or Client-caused delays; and (f) with due care, diligence, and attention to detail. Service Providers should take pride in their work and recognize that reputation depends on consistent delivery of quality services.

6.4 Professional Communication and Client Relations

Service Providers should: (a) respond promptly (within 24-48 hours) to Client messages, inquiries, and requests for updates; (b) maintain professional, courteous, respectful tone even when addressing difficult issues or disagreements; (c) provide proactive updates regarding project progress, anticipated delays, or emerging issues; (d) explain technical issues or options in language that non-expert Clients can understand; (e) solicit Client input and approval at key decision points; and (f) address Client concerns or requests for corrections promptly and constructively.

6.5 Transparency About Changes and Issues

Service Providers must communicate promptly and transparently about: (a) scope changes requested by Client or necessitated by unforeseen conditions; (b) price adjustments required due to scope changes or unforeseen circumstances; (c) timeline delays caused by weather, material availability, permitting, or other factors; (d) problems, defects, or issues discovered during work that affect cost, timeline, or outcome; (e) deviations from original specifications or methodologies; and (f) any other material changes or issues. Clients have the right to be informed of changes before they occur (when possible) or immediately upon discovery.

6.6 Completion and Cleanup Standards

Service Providers should: (a) complete all work specified in the Project Contract before submitting milestone completion requests; (b) perform thorough quality checks and address any defects or deficiencies before requesting approval; (c) clean work areas and remove debris, tools, and materials upon completion; (d) leave sites in condition as good or better than found (except for intentional changes resulting from the work performed); (e) provide Clients with any necessary documentation, warranties, instructions, or maintenance guidance; and (f) be available for reasonable post-completion support or warranty service as applicable.

6.7 Handling Client Feedback and Concerns

When Clients raise concerns, Service Providers should: (a) listen actively and seek to understand the concern fully; (b) acknowledge legitimate issues rather than becoming defensive; (c) propose solutions or corrective actions; (d) follow through on commitments to address issues; (e) maintain professional demeanor even if Client is emotional or frustrated; and (f) recognize that addressing concerns promptly and professionally often converts dissatisfied Clients into loyal advocates.

6.8 Ethical Business Practices

Service Providers must: (a) compete fairly without disparaging competitors; (b) not collude with other Service Providers to fix prices or allocate clients; (c) not manipulate reviews or ratings through fraudulent means; (d) honor commitments and not cancel projects without legitimate cause; (e) not exploit Client lack of knowledge or urgency to charge excessive prices; (f) comply with all licensing, insurance, tax, and legal requirements; and (g) conduct business with integrity and transparency.

Article VII: Safety and Security

7.1 Physical Safety Requirements

All Users must prioritize physical safety. Service Providers must: (a) use appropriate safety equipment and personal protective gear; (b) follow industry safety standards and OSHA requirements (where applicable); (c) secure work sites to prevent unauthorized access or hazards; (d) warn Clients of any hazards created by work in progress; (e) stop work immediately if unsafe conditions arise; (f) not work while impaired by drugs or alcohol; and (g) comply with Client safety rules or requirements for work sites. Clients must: (a) disclose known hazards or dangerous conditions; (b) maintain reasonably safe work environments; (c) not request Service Providers to work in manifestly unsafe conditions; and (d) cooperate with reasonable safety requirements imposed by Service Providers.

7.2 COVID-19 and Health Precautions

Users should follow applicable health guidelines and regulations. Best practices include: (a) staying home and rescheduling work if experiencing symptoms of contagious illness; (b) respecting others' preferences regarding masking, distancing, or other precautions; (c) maintaining good hygiene practices; (d) notifying the other party if exposure to communicable disease occurs; and (e) being flexible and understanding regarding health-related delays or cancellations. Users must comply with any government-imposed restrictions, lockdowns, or health orders.

7.3 Property Security

Users must respect property security. Service Providers must: (a) secure all tools, equipment, and materials to prevent theft; (b) lock doors and windows when leaving work sites; (c) not grant unauthorized persons access to Client property; (d) report any security concerns or incidents to Clients immediately; and (e) not remove or use Client property without authorization. Clients must: (a) provide Service Providers with necessary access codes, keys, or entry information; (b) secure valuables or sensitive items; (c) notify Service Providers of any security systems or protocols; and (d) not falsely accuse Service Providers of theft or property damage.

7.4 Financial Security

Users must protect financial information and avoid financial fraud. Best practices include: (a) never sharing payment card numbers, bank account information, or PINs via messaging; (b) using the Platform's secure payment processing exclusively; (c) verifying the identity of persons requesting payments or sensitive information; (d) reporting suspected fraud or phishing attempts immediately; (e) monitoring accounts for unauthorized transactions; and (f) using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication where available.

7.5 Privacy and Confidentiality

Users must respect others' privacy and confidentiality. Prohibited conduct includes: (a) sharing other Users' personal information (addresses, phone numbers, financial information) without consent; (b) photographing or recording Users without consent; (c) entering areas of property not authorized for work purposes; (d) disclosing confidential business information learned through transactions; (e) sharing personal details about Users with third parties; or (f) using information obtained through the Platform for purposes other than completing transactions.

7.6 Reporting Safety Concerns

Users have a duty to report safety concerns to CLÖCKH and, where appropriate, to authorities. Reportable concerns include: (a) unsafe working conditions or practices; (b) threats of violence or harm; (c) suspected child endangerment; (d) evidence of illegal activity; (e) health hazards or code violations; or (f) any conduct that creates imminent risk of serious harm. Users reporting in good faith are protected from retaliation, and CLÖCKH will investigate all reports promptly and take appropriate action.

Article VIII: Intellectual Property and Confidentiality

8.1 Respect for Intellectual Property Rights

Users must respect intellectual property rights of others and must not infringe copyrights, trademarks, patents, trade secrets, or other intellectual property rights. Prohibited conduct includes: (a) using copyrighted materials (photos, designs, text, software) without authorization; (b) representing others' work as one's own in portfolios or profiles; (c) unauthorized use of trademarks, logos, or brand names; (d) copying or reverse-engineering proprietary designs, methods, or systems; (e) disclosing or using trade secrets without authorization; or (f) any other conduct that violates intellectual property laws.

8.2 Ownership of Work Product

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, work product created by Service Providers for Clients (such as designs, plans, custom fabrications, or creative works) becomes the property of the Client upon full payment. Service Providers retain the right to: (a) photograph completed work for portfolio purposes (unless Client objects on privacy or confidentiality grounds); (b) use general methods, techniques, or approaches developed during the project for future projects; and (c) reference the project in marketing materials (without disclosing confidential information). Clients own the specific work product but not the Service Provider's general knowledge, skills, or methods.

8.3 Portfolio and Reference Use

Service Providers may include photos and descriptions of completed projects in their portfolios, subject to the following limitations: (a) Client privacy must be protected—do not disclose Client names, addresses, or identifying details without consent; (b) respect Client requests not to photograph or publicize projects for privacy or security reasons; (c) do not disclose confidential business information, trade secrets, or sensitive details about Client operations or affairs; (d) photos must accurately represent work actually performed by the Service Provider; and (e) obtain explicit consent before using Client testimonials or endorsements.

8.4 Confidentiality Obligations

Users must maintain confidentiality of sensitive information learned through transactions. Service Providers must not disclose: (a) Client financial information, business plans, or proprietary information; (b) details of Client property, security systems, or valuables; (c) personal or family information about Clients; or (d) any other information that Client reasonably expects to be kept confidential. Clients must not disclose: (a) Service Provider pricing strategies, business methods, or proprietary techniques; (b) personal information about Service Providers; or (c) any other information that Service Provider reasonably expects to be kept confidential.

8.5 Copyright Infringement Reporting

CLÖCKH respects intellectual property rights and will respond to valid copyright infringement notices. If you believe that content on the Platform infringes your copyright, submit a notice to legal@zaboca.org with: (a) identification of the copyrighted work claimed to be infringed; (b) identification of the allegedly infringing material and location on the Platform; (c) your contact information; (d) a statement of good faith belief that use is not authorized; (e) a statement under penalty of perjury that information is accurate and you are authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner; and (f) your physical or electronic signature. CLÖCKH will investigate valid notices and remove infringing content as appropriate.

8.6 Trademark and Brand Protection

Users must not use CLÖCKH's trademarks, logos, or brand assets without authorization. Users must not: (a) use "CLÖCKH" or similar names in business names or domain names; (b) use CLÖCKH logos or graphics in marketing materials without permission; (c) create confusion about affiliation with or endorsement by CLÖCKH; (d) register trademarks confusingly similar to CLÖCKH marks; or (e) disparage or dilute CLÖCKH's brand or reputation. Authorized use of CLÖCKH marks is limited to truthful statements such as "Available on CLÖCKH" or "CLÖCKH Verified Service Provider" where applicable and in accordance with brand guidelines.

Article IX: Enforcement and Consequences

9.1 Enforcement Authority

CLÖCKH has sole and absolute discretion to interpret these Guidelines, investigate alleged violations, determine whether violations have occurred, and impose appropriate consequences. CLÖCKH's enforcement decisions are final and binding, subject only to Users' right to pursue arbitration as provided in Article XIX of the Terms of Service. CLÖCKH may rely on User reports, automated detection systems, manual review, or any other means to identify violations. CLÖCKH is not obligated to investigate all reports or to provide detailed explanations of enforcement decisions, though CLÖCKH endeavors to communicate the basis for actions taken when appropriate.

9.2 Progressive Enforcement Framework

CLÖCKH generally applies a progressive enforcement approach, escalating consequences for repeated or severe violations. The typical enforcement progression is:

(a) Warning: For first-time minor violations, CLÖCKH may issue a written warning via email explaining the violation and requiring corrective action. Warnings serve as notice that continued violations will result in more serious consequences. Warnings remain on Account records and may be considered in future enforcement decisions.

(b) Temporary Suspension: For repeated minor violations or first-time moderate violations, CLÖCKH may suspend Account access for a specified period (typically 7 to 30 days). During suspension, Users cannot access Platform features, submit or accept projects, or conduct transactions, though Users retain access to view transaction history and communicate regarding existing projects. Suspensions provide Users with opportunity to reflect on conduct and commit to compliance before permanent action is taken.

(c) Permanent Termination: For severe violations, repeated violations after warning or suspension, or violations that create serious safety, legal, or reputational risks, CLÖCKH may permanently terminate Account access. Permanent termination results in immediate and irrevocable loss of Platform access, forfeiture of any Held Funds or pending payments (in CLÖCKH's discretion), prohibition on creating new Accounts, and potential reporting to law enforcement or regulatory authorities.

(d) Immediate Termination Without Warning: For the most serious violations (including but not limited to child safety violations, threats of violence, fraud, identity theft, or illegal activity), CLÖCKH may immediately and permanently terminate Accounts without prior warning or opportunity to cure. Immediate termination is reserved for conduct that creates imminent risk of serious harm or that is so egregious that continued Platform access is unacceptable under any circumstances.

9.3 Factors Considered in Enforcement

When determining appropriate enforcement action, CLÖCKH considers factors including but not limited to: (a) severity of the violation; (b) whether violation was intentional or inadvertent; (c) User's violation history and overall conduct on the Platform; (d) harm caused or risk created by the violation; (e) User's cooperation with investigation and willingness to correct conduct; (f) User's credibility and trustworthiness; (g) whether violation involved vulnerable populations (such as children); (h) legal or regulatory implications of the violation; and (i) impact on Platform integrity, safety, or reputation. CLÖCKH weighs these factors holistically and exercises discretion to achieve fair, proportionate, and effective enforcement.

9.4 Specific Consequences by Violation Type

The following guidelines indicate typical enforcement responses to common violation types, though CLÖCKH retains discretion to deviate based on circumstances:

Child Safety Violations: Immediate permanent termination, reporting to NCMEC and law enforcement, full cooperation with investigations, and preservation of all evidence.

Threats of Violence: Immediate suspension pending investigation, permanent termination if threats are credible, reporting to law enforcement as appropriate, and cooperation with protective orders or legal proceedings.

Fraud or Identity Theft: Immediate suspension, forfeiture of Held Funds pending investigation, permanent termination if fraud is confirmed, reporting to law enforcement, and pursuit of civil remedies to recover damages.

Harassment or Abuse: Warning for first minor incident, temporary suspension (7-30 days) for repeated or moderate incidents, permanent termination for severe or persistent harassment after warnings.

Discrimination or Hate Speech: Warning for borderline or ambiguous statements, temporary suspension (14-30 days) for clear violations, permanent termination for egregious or repeated discrimination after warning.

Payment Circumvention: Warning for first incident with recovery of unpaid Service Fees, temporary suspension (14-30 days) for repeated attempts, permanent termination for persistent evasion after warnings.

Review Manipulation: Removal of fraudulent reviews, warning for first incident, temporary suspension (7-30 days) for repeated manipulation, permanent termination for systematic fraud or review bombing.

Safety Violations: Warning for minor safety lapses, temporary suspension (7-30 days) for significant safety violations, permanent termination for conduct creating imminent risk of serious injury or death.

Platform Abuse: Warning for minor technical violations, temporary suspension (7-14 days) for moderate abuse, permanent termination for severe exploitation or hacking attempts.

9.5 Account Termination Procedures

When CLÖCKH terminates an Account, CLÖCKH will: (a) notify the User via email (except in cases where notification would compromise ongoing investigations); (b) provide general basis for termination (e.g., "violation of Community Guidelines regarding harassment") without disclosing confidential investigation details; (c) immediately revoke Platform access; (d) retain User data as required for legal, regulatory, or business purposes; (e) make determinations regarding disposition of any Held Funds or pending payments; and (f) report to law enforcement or regulatory authorities as appropriate. Terminated Users have no right to refund of Service Fees paid or compensation for lost opportunities, and CLÖCKH has no obligation to provide detailed explanations beyond general violation categories.

9.6 Forfeiture of Funds

Upon Account termination for violations, CLÖCKH may, in its sole discretion, forfeit any Held Funds or pending payments associated with the terminated Account. Forfeited funds may be: (a) refunded to Clients if termination was due to Service Provider fraud or material breach; (b) released to Service Providers if termination was due to Client fraud or abuse; (c) retained by CLÖCKH as liquidated damages for breach of Terms and harm to Platform integrity; or (d) remitted to law enforcement as evidence or as required by legal process. Users terminated for violations have no property right or expectation of payment for funds held at time of termination.

9.7 Prohibition on Re-Registration

Users whose Accounts have been permanently terminated are prohibited from re-registering on the Platform. Attempts to create new Accounts after termination will result in immediate termination of the new Account and may result in legal action. CLÖCKH uses various detection methods to identify and prevent re-registration by banned Users, including but not limited to device fingerprinting, IP address monitoring, identity verification cross-referencing, and behavioral analysis. Users who successfully evade detection and re-register in violation of this prohibition remain subject to the original termination and may face additional legal consequences for fraudulent circumvention.

9.8 Law Enforcement and Legal Cooperation

CLÖCKH cooperates fully with law enforcement investigations and legal proceedings. When CLÖCKH identifies conduct that may violate criminal laws, CLÖCKH may: (a) report the conduct to appropriate law enforcement agencies; (b) preserve all relevant evidence including communications, transaction records, and User information; (c) respond to subpoenas, search warrants, and court orders; (d) provide testimony or declarations in legal proceedings; and (e) pursue civil legal action to recover damages or obtain injunctive relief. Users consent to such cooperation and waive any objection to CLÖCKH's disclosure of information to authorities as permitted or required by law.

Article X: Reporting Violations and Concerns

10.1 Duty to Report

All Users have a duty to report violations of these Guidelines to CLÖCKH. Timely reporting enables CLÖCKH to investigate and address violations before they escalate or cause greater harm. Users should report conduct that: (a) violates these Guidelines; (b) creates safety risks; (c) involves fraud, harassment, or illegal activity; (d) harms other Users or the Platform community; or (e) otherwise requires CLÖCKH's attention or intervention. Failure to report serious violations (such as threats, child endangerment, or illegal activity) may itself constitute a violation of these Guidelines.

10.2 How to Report Violations

Users may report violations through the following channels:

(a) In-Platform Reporting: Use the "Report" button or flag icon available on User profiles, project postings, messages, or other content. In-platform reporting is the preferred method as it automatically provides CLÖCKH with context and relevant evidence.

(b) Email Reporting: Send detailed reports to support@zaboca.org with subject line "Community Guidelines Violation Report." Include: (i) description of the violation; (ii) User Account involved; (iii) date and time of incident; (iv) relevant project or transaction information; (v) screenshots or other evidence; and (vi) your contact information.

(c) Emergency Reporting: For imminent safety threats, threats of violence, or child endangerment, contact local law enforcement immediately (911 in the US, emergency numbers in other jurisdictions) and then report to CLÖCKH at support@zaboca.org with subject line "URGENT SAFETY CONCERN."

10.3 Information to Include in Reports

Effective reports include: (a) clear description of the violation and which Guideline(s) were violated; (b) specific examples or instances of violating conduct; (c) dates and times of incidents; (d) evidence such as screenshots of messages, photos of work, or documentation; (e) explanation of harm caused or risk created; (f) identification of other Users who may have witnessed or been affected by the violation; and (g) your contact information if follow-up may be needed. Detailed, well-documented reports enable faster and more effective investigation and resolution.

10.4 Confidentiality of Reports

CLÖCKH treats reports confidentially to the extent possible while conducting investigations. CLÖCKH will not disclose the identity of reporting Users to accused Users except where: (a) disclosure is required by law or legal process; (b) the reported content itself identifies the reporting User (e.g., in a dispute between two parties); (c) disclosure is necessary for fair investigation or due process; or (d) the reporting User consents to disclosure. However, CLÖCKH cannot guarantee complete anonymity, and Users should be prepared for the possibility that their identity may become known in the course of investigations or enforcement.

10.5 Protection from Retaliation

CLÖCKH prohibits retaliation against Users who report violations in good faith. Prohibited retaliation includes: (a) harassment, threats, or intimidation of reporting Users; (b) negative reviews, ratings, or feedback motivated by the User's report; (c) refusal to transact with Users who have reported violations; (d) disparagement or defamation of reporting Users; or (e) any other adverse action taken because a User reported a violation. Users who engage in retaliation face enforcement action up to and including permanent Account termination. Users who believe they are experiencing retaliation should report it immediately to support@zaboca.org.

10.6 False or Bad Faith Reports

While CLÖCKH encourages reporting, Users must not submit false or bad-faith reports. Prohibited reporting practices include: (a) knowingly making false accusations; (b) exaggerating or distorting facts to make conduct appear more serious; (c) reporting legitimate conduct as violations to harass or retaliate against other Users; (d) submitting multiple duplicate reports to overwhelm CLÖCKH's review systems; or (e) abusing the reporting system for any other improper purpose. Users who submit false or bad-faith reports face enforcement action including warnings, suspension, or termination, and may be held liable for damages caused to falsely accused Users.

10.7 Investigation Procedures

Upon receiving a report, CLÖCKH will: (a) acknowledge receipt (typically within 24-48 hours); (b) review the report and evidence; (c) request additional information if needed; (d) investigate the reported conduct, which may include reviewing Platform records, communications, transaction history, and other evidence; (e) contact the accused User for response or explanation; (f) make a determination regarding whether violations occurred; (g) impose appropriate enforcement action if violations are confirmed; and (h) notify the reporting User of the outcome (without disclosing confidential details of the investigation or specific enforcement actions taken against other Users). Investigation timelines vary based on complexity but typically conclude within 7 to 14 business days.

10.8 Limitations on CLÖCKH's Investigation Capacity

CLÖCKH endeavors to investigate all reports thoroughly and promptly. However, Users should understand that: (a) CLÖCKH may prioritize investigations based on severity, with safety threats and serious violations receiving immediate attention; (b) complex investigations requiring expert consultation or extensive evidence review may take longer; (c) CLÖCKH's investigation resources are finite and periods of high report volume may result in delays; (d) some reports may not result in enforcement action if evidence is insufficient or conduct does not clearly violate Guidelines; and (e) CLÖCKH cannot investigate off-Platform conduct except where it directly affects Platform community. CLÖCKH appreciates Users' patience and understanding regarding investigation timelines and limitations.

Article XI: General Provisions

11.1 Entire Agreement

These Guidelines, together with the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Refund and Cancellation Policy, constitute the entire agreement between CLÖCKH and Users regarding standards of conduct and community expectations, superseding all prior agreements, understandings, or representations, whether written or oral, relating to such subject matter.

11.2 Severability

If any provision of these Guidelines is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be severed from these Guidelines, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect to the maximum extent permitted by law. The invalid provision shall be reformed or replaced with a valid and enforceable provision that most closely approximates the intent and effect of the original provision.

11.3 Waiver

No waiver of any term, condition, or provision of these Guidelines shall be deemed a further or continuing waiver of such term, condition, or provision or a waiver of any other term, condition, or provision. CLÖCKH's failure to enforce any right or provision of these Guidelines shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision or a waiver of CLÖCKH's right to enforce such right or provision in the future. Any waiver must be in writing and signed by an authorized representative of CLÖCKH.

11.4 Governing Law and Arbitration

These Guidelines are governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, United States, without regard to conflict of laws principles. Any dispute arising from or relating to these Guidelines, including disputes regarding enforcement actions or Account termination, shall be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with Article XIX of the Terms of Service, which provisions are incorporated herein by reference. Users waive the right to jury trial and the right to participate in class actions as provided in the Terms.

11.5 Amendments

CLÖCKH reserves the right to modify, amend, or update these Guidelines at any time in its sole discretion. Material changes will be communicated to Users via email or in-app notification with thirty (30) days' notice prior to the effective date. Users' continued use of the Platform following amendments constitutes acceptance of the revised Guidelines. CLÖCKH may make immediate amendments without notice when necessary to address urgent safety, security, or legal compliance concerns.

11.6 Assignment

Users may not assign, transfer, or delegate any rights or obligations under these Guidelines without CLÖCKH's prior written consent. CLÖCKH may freely assign, transfer, or delegate these Guidelines and its rights and obligations hereunder without restriction and without notice to or consent from Users, including in connection with mergers, acquisitions, sales of assets, or corporate reorganizations.

11.7 Headings and Construction

The headings and subheadings in these Guidelines are provided for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the interpretation or construction of any provision. The use of "including," "includes," "such as," or similar phrases shall be deemed to mean "including but not limited to" and shall not be construed to limit the generality of any preceding phrase. The singular shall include the plural and vice versa.

11.8 Language

These Guidelines are executed in the English language. If these Guidelines are translated into any other language, the English version shall control and prevail in the event of any conflict, ambiguity, or discrepancy between versions.

11.9 Survival

Provisions of these Guidelines that by their nature should survive termination of a User's Account or cessation of use of the Platform shall survive, including but not limited to provisions regarding confidentiality, intellectual property, enforcement consequences, liability, arbitration, governing law, and general provisions.

11.10 Contact for Guidelines Questions

Users with questions about these Guidelines or seeking clarification regarding specific conduct may contact CLÖCKH at support@zaboca.org. However, CLÖCKH is not obligated to provide advance rulings on whether hypothetical conduct would violate Guidelines, and Users are responsible for exercising reasonable judgment and erring on the side of caution when uncertain whether conduct may violate Guidelines.

END OF COMMUNITY GUIDELINES
Last Updated: January 21, 2026
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