Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to Shoal Marketplace. These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of our website, mobile application, and services (collectively, the "Service"). By accessing or using our Service, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our Service.

2. Description of Service

Shoal Marketplace is an online platform that connects buyers and sellers across The Bahamas. Our Service allows users to:

• List items for sale
• Browse and purchase items
• Communicate with other users
• Manage transactions and payments
• Access buyer and seller protection features

3. User Accounts

3.1 Account Creation

To use certain features of our Service, you must create an account. You agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete information
• Maintain the confidentiality of your password
• Be responsible for all activities under your account
• Notify us immediately of any unauthorized use

3.2 Account Types

We offer both buyer and seller accounts. Sellers may be subject to additional verification requirements.

3.3 Account Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account for violations of these Terms or for other reasons we deem necessary.

4. User Conduct

You agree not to use our Service to:

• Violate any applicable laws or regulations
• Infringe on intellectual property rights
• Post false, misleading, or fraudulent information
• Harass, threaten, or abuse other users
• Upload malicious code or viruses
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems
• Use automated tools to access our Service
• Interfere with the proper functioning of our Service

5. Listings and Transactions

5.1 Seller Responsibilities

Sellers must:

• Provide accurate descriptions of items
• Deliver items as described
• Respond to buyer inquiries promptly
• Complete transactions in good faith
• Comply with all applicable laws regarding sales

5.2 Buyer Responsibilities

Buyers must:

• Pay for items as agreed
• Provide accurate shipping information
• Communicate clearly with sellers
• Report issues promptly

5.3 Prohibited Items

The following items may not be listed on Shoal Marketplace:

• Illegal substances or items
• Firearms and ammunition
• Stolen property
• Counterfeit goods
• Items that violate intellectual property rights
• Live animals (except certain circumstances)
• Any other items prohibited by Bahamian law

6. Payment and Fees

6.1 Payment Processing

All payments are processed through secure third-party providers. We do not store your payment information.

6.2 Transaction Fees

Sellers may be charged fees for successful transactions. Current fees are displayed in the seller dashboard.

6.3 Refunds

Refunds are handled according to our refund policy and applicable laws. Disputes should be reported immediately.

7. Shipping and Delivery

Sellers are responsible for shipping items to buyers. We recommend:

• Using insured shipping methods
• Providing tracking information
• Shipping within agreed timeframes
• Clearly communicating shipping costs

Buyers are responsible for providing accurate shipping addresses and paying applicable duties or taxes.

8. Intellectual Property

Shoal Marketplace and its content are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without our permission.

Users retain ownership of content they post, but grant us a license to use it for operating our Service.

9. Privacy

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your information.

10. Disclaimers and Limitations

10.1 Service Availability

We strive to provide reliable service but cannot guarantee uninterrupted access. We are not liable for service interruptions.

10.2 User Content

We do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of user-generated content. Users are responsible for verifying information.

10.3 Limitation of Liability

Our liability is limited to the maximum extent permitted by law. We are not responsible for indirect or consequential damages.

11. Dispute Resolution

We encourage users to resolve disputes directly. If this is not possible:

• Contact our customer support team
• Use our dispute resolution process
• Escalate to relevant authorities if necessary

All disputes are subject to Bahamian law and jurisdiction.

12. Termination

Either party may terminate this agreement at any time. Upon termination:

• Your account will be deactivated
• Outstanding transactions must be completed
• Certain provisions will survive termination

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. We will notify users of material changes via email or website notice. Continued use constitutes acceptance of updated Terms.

14. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Any disputes will be resolved in Bahamian courts.

15. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms, please contact us: