Platform Terms of Service
Last updated: January 2025
1. What This Agreement Covers
ScaffoldLink is a platform that connects contractors and tradespeople ("Job Posters") with scaffolding companies ("Scaffolders"). By using ScaffoldLink, you agree to these terms.
These terms create a binding agreement between you and ScaffoldLink. Please read them carefully before using the platform. If you don't agree with these terms, please don't use ScaffoldLink.
2. Platform Protection & Repeat Work
This is important: ScaffoldLink exists to connect Job Posters with quality Scaffolders. When a connection is made through our platform, any future work between those parties should also go through ScaffoldLink.
The 24-Month Rule
If you're introduced to a client or scaffolder through ScaffoldLink, any scaffolding work between you within the next 24 months must be arranged through our platform. This includes:
- Repeat work at the same property
- Work at other properties owned by the same client
- Referrals from that client to friends or family
- Any direct contact to arrange scaffolding work
What Counts as a Breach
The following are considered breaches of these terms:
- A Scaffolder contacting a Job Poster directly to offer repeat work
- A Job Poster contacting a Scaffolder directly for new work
- Exchanging personal contact details to arrange future work offline
- Using social media or other channels to bypass the platform
Circumvention Fee
If work is arranged outside ScaffoldLink in breach of these terms, a circumvention fee will apply. This fee is the higher of:
- 20% of the job value, or
- One month's subscription fee
Scaffolder accounts may be suspended or terminated for circumvention breaches.
3. Job Poster Responsibilities
As a Job Poster (contractor or tradesperson posting jobs), you agree to:
- Provide accurate information about the scaffolding work needed
- Respond to bids and messages in a reasonable timeframe
- Not contact Scaffolders directly outside the platform for repeat work within 24 months
- Not share Scaffolder contact details with third parties for work outside ScaffoldLink
- Leave honest reviews after work is completed
- Report any issues or disputes through our platform
4. Scaffolder Responsibilities
As a Scaffolder, you agree to:
- Maintain an active subscription to view and bid on jobs
- Provide accurate company information and credentials
- Submit honest and competitive bids
- Complete accepted work to a professional standard
- Not solicit repeat work directly from clients met through ScaffoldLink
- Not encourage clients to contact you outside the platform
- Maintain valid public liability insurance
- Hold appropriate certifications (CISRS, etc.) as stated in your profile
5. Subscriptions & Payment
Subscription Plans
Scaffolders must hold an active subscription to view and bid on jobs. We offer three tiers:
- Local - Jobs within 10 miles of your postcode
- Regional - Jobs within 30 miles of your postcode
- National - All jobs across the UK
Billing
- Subscriptions are billed monthly in advance
- Payment is taken automatically on your billing date
- You can cancel anytime - your subscription remains active until the end of the billing period
- No refunds are provided for partial months
- Failed payments may result in account suspension
6. How ScaffoldLink Works
For Job Posters
- Posting a job is free
- You'll receive bids from qualified Scaffolders in your area
- You can review bids, scaffolder profiles, and ratings
- When you accept a bid, you agree to our platform terms
- You deal directly with the Scaffolder for scheduling and payment
For Scaffolders
- View jobs in your subscription area
- Submit competitive bids with optional messages
- If your bid is accepted, you'll be notified by email
- Arrange the work directly with the Job Poster
- Build your reputation through reviews
7. Disputes & Problems
ScaffoldLink is a connection platform - we don't employ Scaffolders or guarantee their work. However, we're committed to fair resolution when problems arise.
If There's a Problem
- First, try to resolve it directly with the other party
- If that doesn't work, contact us at support@scaffoldlink.com
- We'll review the situation and may mediate between parties
- Serious or repeated issues may result in account suspension
What We Can Help With
- Suspected circumvention of platform terms
- Fraudulent or misleading profiles
- Harassment or inappropriate behaviour
- Technical issues with the platform
What We Can't Help With
- Quality disputes about completed work (this is between you and the Scaffolder)
- Payment disputes for work done
- Personal injury or property damage claims
8. Our Liability
ScaffoldLink provides a platform for connections. We don't:
- Employ or supervise Scaffolders
- Guarantee the quality of work
- Verify all credentials independently
- Handle payments between Job Posters and Scaffolders
- Provide insurance for scaffolding work
You're responsible for verifying credentials, agreeing terms, and ensuring work meets your requirements. We recommend checking insurance certificates and qualifications before work begins.
9. Account Suspension & Termination
We may suspend or terminate accounts for:
- Breach of these terms, especially circumvention
- Fraudulent or misleading behaviour
- Failed subscription payments (Scaffolders)
- Repeated complaints from other users
- Any illegal activity
If your account is suspended, you may appeal by contacting support@scaffoldlink.com.
10. Changes to These Terms
We may update these terms from time to time. We'll notify you of significant changes by email. Continued use of ScaffoldLink after changes means you accept the new terms.
11. Contact Us
Questions about these terms? Get in touch:
- Email: support@scaffoldlink.com
- Website: scaffoldlink.com
By using ScaffoldLink, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these terms. If you're accepting on behalf of a company, you confirm you have authority to do so.