Terms & Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using Craft Connect ("the Platform"), you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. If you do not agree, please do not use the Platform.

2. Definitions

• "Platform" — the Craft Connect website and all related services.
• "Buyer" — a user who purchases products through the Platform.
• "Artisan" — a verified seller who lists and sells products through the Platform.
• "Escrow" — the payment holding mechanism that protects both parties during a transaction.

3. User Accounts

You must register for an account to use certain features. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your login credentials and for all activity under your account. You must be at least 18 years old to register as an Artisan.

4. Artisan Listings & Obligations

Artisans represent and warrant that:

• All product listings are accurate, truthful, and not misleading.
• Products listed are handmade, authentic, and comply with South African consumer protection laws.
• Artisans will fulfil orders in a timely manner as stated in their listings.
• Artisans will maintain appropriate stock levels or clearly communicate availability.

Craft Connect reserves the right to remove listings or suspend accounts that violate these terms.

5. Buyer Responsibilities

As a Buyer you agree to:

• Provide accurate delivery and contact information.
• Make payment through the Platform's escrow system.
• Inspect products upon delivery and report any issues through the dispute process.
• Not misuse the Platform's dispute or review systems.

6. Escrow Payments

All transactions on the Platform are processed through our escrow system:

• Payment is collected from the Buyer at the time of order.
• Funds are held securely by Craft Connect until the Buyer confirms delivery.
• Upon delivery confirmation, funds are released to the Artisan (minus applicable fees).
• If a dispute arises, funds remain held until the dispute is resolved.
• Craft Connect charges a service fee on each completed transaction, disclosed at checkout.

7. Shipping & Delivery

Artisans are responsible for setting their own shipping policies and rates. Buyers should review the artisan's delivery policy before purchasing. Craft Connect is not liable for shipping delays, lost parcels, or damages incurred during transit.

8. Returns & Refunds

Artisans set their own return and refund policies. In the absence of a stated policy, Buyers may request a refund through the dispute resolution process within 14 days of delivery if the product is materially different from its listing or arrives damaged.

9. Dispute Resolution

Disputes between Buyers and Artisans should first be resolved directly. If no resolution is reached within 7 days, either party may escalate to Craft Connect's admin team. The admin team will review evidence from both sides and make a final determination. Both parties agree to abide by the outcome.

10. Prohibited Conduct

You may not:

• List counterfeit, illegal, or prohibited items.
• Use the Platform for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose.
• Interfere with the Platform's security or functionality.
• Harass, abuse, or defraud other users.
• Attempt to transact outside the Platform's escrow system.

11. Limitation of Liability

Craft Connect acts as a marketplace intermediary and is not a party to transactions between Buyers and Artisans. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Craft Connect disclaims all liability for any losses or damages arising from your use of the Platform or from transactions between users.

12. Termination

Craft Connect reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these Terms or engage in prohibited conduct. Users may terminate their account at any time by contacting support.

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Users will be notified of material changes via email or platform notice. Continued use after changes take effect constitutes acceptance.

14. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any disputes arising from these Terms shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of South Africa.

15. Contact

For questions or concerns regarding these Terms, please contact us at support@craftconnect.net.za.