Privacy Policy | patchly

patchly ("we", "our", "us") connects homeowners in Bakersfield and Kern County, California with local contractors. This policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have. By using patchapp.org or the patchly mobile app, you agree to this policy.

Information we collect

When you describe a home problem, we collect the text of your description and any photos you choose to attach. If you fill out a contact form, we collect the name, phone number, ZIP code, and details you provide. We also collect basic technical information like your IP address and the type of device or browser you use, in standard server logs.

We do not require an account, and we do not collect your name, email, or phone number unless you choose to send it via a contact form.

How we use your information

To match your problem to the right trade and show you a list of local contractors.
To process the photo or text you submit so we can give you a better recommendation.
To send your contact details to a contractor partner if you submit a lead form, so they can reach out to you.
To improve patchly (for example, by reviewing how often a search returns useful matches).

We do not sell your information to third parties. We do not share your phone number, address, or problem description with anyone other than the contractor partner you intend to contact.

Third party services we use

Anthropic processes your search text and any attached photos to suggest the right trade. Anthropic does not retain your data for training. See Anthropic's privacy policy.
Vercel hosts the patchly website and stores standard web server logs. See Vercel's privacy policy.

Photos

Photos you attach to a search are sent to Anthropic to help match the right trade and are temporarily stored for the duration of the request. We do not store photos long term. The mobile app may request access to your camera and photo library so you can attach a photo to a search; you can deny these permissions in your device settings without affecting other features of the app.

Lead and contact data retention

If you submit your contact info via a form, we retain that information for as long as needed to facilitate the connection between you and a contractor, and then delete it within 12 months.

Children's privacy

patchly is not directed to children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected such information, contact us so we can delete it.

California residents

Under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), California residents have the right to know what personal information we collect about them, request that we delete it, and opt out of the sale of personal information. We do not sell personal information. To make a request, contact us using the email below.

Your choices

You can use the search without submitting a contact form. Just call the contractor directly using the phone number on their card.
You can ask us to delete any contact info you submitted by emailing us.
You can deny camera and photo library access in your device settings; the app still works for text only searches.

Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The "Last updated" date at the top reflects the most recent revision.

Contact

Questions or requests? Email scottwattenbarger@gmail.com.

This document is provided as a starting point and is not legal advice. We recommend reviewing with an attorney before launch if you handle sensitive data at scale.