Privacy Policy

Introduction

Look, we get it – privacy policies can be a real slog to read through. But here at Gildraven Quintal Architecture, we're pretty serious about protecting your personal information, so we've tried to make this as straightforward as possible.

We're a Toronto-based architecture firm that specializes in sustainable urban design and heritage restoration. When you reach out to us, browse our portfolio, or work with us on a project, we collect certain information. This policy explains what we do with that info, how we keep it safe, and what rights you've got when it comes to your data.

This privacy policy applies to anyone who visits our website, contacts us, or engages our services. By using our site or working with us, you're agreeing to the practices we've outlined here.

Information We Collect

We're not in the business of collecting data just for the sake of it. Here's what we actually gather and why:

Personal Information You Give Us

When you fill out a contact form, request a consultation, or send us an email, we collect things like:

• Your name and title
• Email address and phone number
• Company or organization name
• Project details and site location
• Budget range and timeline expectations
• Any specific requirements or design preferences you share

Project-Related Information

If we're working together on a project, we'll also collect:

• Property information and site documentation
• Architectural drawings and photographs
• Building permits and regulatory documents
• Contract and billing information
• Meeting notes and correspondence

Technical Data

Like most websites, we automatically collect some technical stuff when you visit our site:

• IP address and browser type
• Device information and operating system
• Pages you visit and how long you stay
• Referring website and search terms
• Time and date of your visit

How We Use Your Information

We're not gonna beat around the bush here – we use your information to do our job and serve you better. Specifically:

We might also use your info for:

• Marketing communications – but only if you've opted in. We'll send occasional updates about our projects, design insights, or sustainability initiatives. You can unsubscribe anytime.
• Portfolio development – with your explicit permission, we may showcase completed projects on our website or in presentations.
• Legal compliance – meeting regulatory requirements for architectural practice in Ontario, including maintaining project records as required by law.

Information Sharing & Disclosure

We're pretty protective of your information, honestly. We don't sell it to third parties – that's not our business model. But there are a few situations where we might share your data:

Service Providers & Partners

Architecture isn't a solo sport. We work with trusted partners who help us deliver projects:

• Structural engineers and consultants
• Contractors and construction managers
• Surveying and environmental assessment firms
• Cloud storage and project management platforms
• Accounting and legal professionals

These folks are bound by confidentiality agreements and can only use your information for the specific purposes we've authorized.

Legal Requirements

We'll disclose information if we're legally required to do so – like responding to court orders, complying with building regulations, or cooperating with government investigations. We're not happy about it, but sometimes the law's the law.

Business Transfers

In the unlikely event that our firm is acquired or merged with another practice, your information would be transferred as part of that transaction. We'd notify you beforehand, though.

Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Yeah, we use cookies – and we're not talking about the chocolate chip kind. Here's the deal:

Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help us remember your preferences and understand how you use our site. We use:

Most browsers let you control cookies through their settings. Just be aware that blocking cookies might affect how our site works for you.

Data Security

We take security seriously. Your project information and personal data are protected using industry-standard measures:

• Encryption – We use SSL/TLS encryption for data transmission
• Secure servers – Our hosting providers maintain high security standards
• Access controls – Only authorized team members can access client data
• Regular backups – We maintain secure backups of project files
• Password protection – All systems require strong authentication

That said, no system is 100% foolproof. While we do everything we can to protect your information, we can't guarantee absolute security. If you notice anything suspicious or think there's been a breach, let us know immediately at info@gildravenquintal.info.

Your Privacy Rights

Under Canadian privacy law (PIPEDA) and other applicable regulations, you've got rights when it comes to your personal information:

To exercise any of these rights, just reach out to us using the contact info at the bottom of this page. We'll verify your identity and get back to you promptly.

Data Retention

We don't keep your information longer than we need to. Here's our general approach:

• Active projects – We keep all project data for the duration of the engagement plus 7 years after completion (as required by professional regulations)
• Inquiry data – If you contact us but don't proceed with a project, we'll keep your info for up to 2 years
• Marketing data – We'll keep your subscription info until you unsubscribe
• Financial records – We're required to keep these for 7 years for tax purposes
• Website analytics – Typically retained for 26 months

After these periods, we'll either delete or anonymize your information so it can't be traced back to you.