Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 2025

1. Introduction

At House Yourself, we respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal data. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you use our platform.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Account Information

• Email address and authentication details
• Name, phone number, and age (when provided)
• Profile photos and uploaded documents

2.2 Verification Information

For identity verification, we may collect:

• Government-issued identification documents
• National identification numbers (NIN)
• Driver's license information
• Biometric data for identity verification
• Proof of residency documents

2.3 Listing and Communication Data

• Room and property information you provide
• Messages and communications between users
• Search preferences and saved listings

2.4 Technical Information

• IP address and browser information
• Device identifiers and usage analytics
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies

3. How We Use Your Information

3.1 Platform Services

• Facilitate room listings and searches
• Connect tenants with potential housemates
• Process identity verification
• Provide customer support

3.2 Safety and Trust

• Verify user identities to prevent fraud
• Moderate content and communications
• Enforce our Terms of Service
• Detect and prevent suspicious activities

3.3 Communication

• Send important account and service updates
• Notify you of new matching listings
• Respond to your inquiries and requests

4. Third-Party Services

4.1 Authentication

We use Supabase for secure user authentication and account management.

4.2 Identity Verification

We partner with VerifyMe Global for identity verification services, including:

• National identification number verification
• Driver's license verification
• Biometric identity matching

4.3 Cloud Storage

We use Cloudinary for secure storage of profile photos and property images.

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information. We may share data only in these circumstances:

• With your explicit consent
• With trusted service providers (under strict data processing agreements)
• To comply with legal requirements
• To protect the safety and rights of our users

6. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your data:

• Encryption of data in transit and at rest
• Regular security audits and updates
• Access controls and authentication requirements
• Secure third-party integrations

7. Your Rights and Choices

7.1 Access and Control

You have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Update or correct inaccurate information
• Delete your account and associated data
• Download your data
• Opt out of non-essential communications

7.2 Verification Data

Given the sensitive nature of identity verification, some data may be retained for regulatory compliance even after account deletion.

8. Data Retention

We retain your data only as long as necessary for:

• Providing our services
• Meeting legal and regulatory requirements
• Resolving disputes and enforcing agreements

9. International Data Transfers

Your data may be processed in countries other than your residence. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international transfers.

10. Children's Privacy

Our service is intended for users 18 years and older. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes via email or platform notifications.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this privacy policy or our data practices, please contact us:

13. Regulatory Compliance

This policy is designed to comply with applicable data protection laws, including GDPR and other relevant privacy regulations.