Terms of Service
Last updated: January 15, 2025
1. Acceptance of Terms
By accessing and using BorrowBoots ("the Service"), you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree, you must not use the Service.
2. Description of Service
BorrowBoots is a peer-to-peer gear rental platform that connects gear owners with individuals seeking to rent outdoor equipment. The Service includes:
- Listing and discovering gear
- Booking and payment processing
- User verification and safety features
- Dispute resolution and support
- Communication tools between users
3. User Accounts
To access certain features, you must register an account. You agree to:
- Provide accurate and current information
- Maintain your account and password security
- Accept responsibility for all activity under your account
- Complete identity verification if required
4. Eligibility and Age Restrictions
You must be at least 18 years old to use the Service independently. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may use the Service only with the consent and supervision of a parent or legal guardian, who assumes all responsibility for their use. BorrowBoots may request proof of age or consent.
5. User Responsibilities
For Gear Owners:
- Ensure gear is safe and in working condition
- Provide accurate descriptions and images
- Respond promptly to requests
- Meet renters at agreed times and locations
- Maintain insurance as appropriate
- Comply with laws and regulations
For Renters:
- Use gear only as intended
- Return gear in the same condition
- Report any damage or issues
- Follow safety instructions
- Meet owners as agreed
- Pay all fees on time
6. Payments
All payments are processed via Stripe. You agree to:
- Pay all applicable fees and taxes
- Provide accurate payment details
- Authorise BorrowBoots to charge your method
- Understand that fees are non-refundable except per Section 19
7. Deposits and Damage Responsibility
Booking Deposit:
A 25% booking deposit is required upon approval to secure the booking and cover platform fees. Refundable per cancellation policy.
Security Deposit:
Owners may set a refundable security deposit per listing. It is paid separately and refunded after gear is returned in good condition. BorrowBoots may facilitate disputes but is not liable for unresolved claims. Renters authorise us to hold or charge deposits if necessary.
8. Cancellations and Refunds
- 48+ hours before start: Full refund (100%)
- 24-48 hours before start: 50% refund
- Less than 24 hours before start: No refund
In exceptional cases (e.g. safety issues), BorrowBoots may override this policy at its sole discretion.
9. Optional Insurance
BorrowBoots may offer optional protection plans via third-party insurers. If selected:
- Terms of the insurer apply
- BorrowBoots is not the insurer
- Uninsured damages remain your responsibility
10. User Content and Licence
Users grant BorrowBoots a worldwide, royalty-free licence to use, display, distribute, and promote uploaded content (e.g. images, descriptions, reviews). Users retain ownership but must have rights to upload. BorrowBoots may use content for promotional purposes without further approval.
11. Prohibited Activities
You agree not to:
- List illegal or unsafe gear
- Harass or harm others
- Circumvent payment systems
- Submit false info
- Violate laws or use bots to access the site
12. Platform Role and Disclaimers
BorrowBoots is a platform only. We are NOT:
- A gear provider, dealer, or insurer
- Responsible for gear quality or fitness
- Liable for injuries or property damage
- Party to any rental agreements
13. Risk Disclaimers
Users accept all risks of gear use, including injury or death. Gear is provided "as is" without warranties. BorrowBoots does not inspect or verify gear.
14. Personal Safety
Users meet at their own risk. BorrowBoots does not perform background checks. Meet in public spaces. We are not liable for incidents during meetups.
15. Service Availability and Technical Issues
We do not guarantee uninterrupted service. BorrowBoots is not liable for outages, bugs, data loss, or third-party provider issues (e.g. Stripe). Report problems promptly.
16. Consumer Rights and Fair Use
Nothing in these Terms affects your statutory rights under UK consumer law. If any part is found unenforceable, the rest remains in effect.
17. Governing Law
These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes shall be resolved in English courts.
18. Indemnity
You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless BorrowBoots from any claims, losses, or liabilities arising from your use of the Service, gear, or breach of Terms.
19. Limitation of Liability
BorrowBoots' liability is limited to the greater of: (a) £100 or (b) the amount you paid us in the past 12 months. We are not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages.
20. Changes to Terms
We may update these Terms from time to time. Continued use of the Service indicates acceptance of the changes.
21. Contact
Email: legal@borrowboots.com
Address: TBC