Terms and Policies

Comprehensive Legal and Operational Guidelines for Lager Homes

ARTICLE 1 — DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

1.1 Core Definitions

1. Platform

The term “Platform” refers to all digital services, technology systems, and interfaces operated by Lager Digital Solutions PLC, including, but not limited to:

• The LagerHomes website and subdomains
• Mobile applications (iOS, Android, and web-based)
• Backend systems, servers, APIs, databases, and other infrastructure
• Communication tools provided to Users for interactions with the Company or other Users

The Platform provides technical facilitation only and does not itself operate the services offered by Users unless explicitly stated.

2. Services

The term “Services” collectively refers to all categories of offerings made available through the Platform. As of the present, the Platform provides four primary categories:

• a. Hospitality Booking Services — short-term accommodation booking, including hotels, guesthouses, serviced apartments, and other lodgings.
• b. Property Rental Services — short-term and long-term property rentals, including Airbnb-style arrangements, apartments, and residential houses.
• c. Real Estate Sales Services — listings and facilitation of buying and selling residential and commercial real estate.
• d. Car Rental Services — vehicle rental services, including cars, vans, or other vehicles offered by Vehicle Providers.

Services may expand over time, and all new services will be subject to these Terms unless otherwise stated.

3. User

A “User” is any individual or legal entity that accesses, registers, or uses the Platform, whether as a Guest, Host, Buyer, Seller, Vehicle Provider, or in any other capacity.

4. Guest

A Guest is a User who books, rents, or purchases Services through the Platform. Guests are responsible for compliance with all obligations under the booking or purchase, including payment, lawful conduct, and adherence to any service-specific rules.

5. Host

A Host is a User who lists or offers accommodations or properties for rental or hospitality purposes. Hosts are responsible for:

• Accuracy of property descriptions
• Compliance with Ethiopian laws and regulations
• Ensuring safety, habitability, and quality of the listed property
• Honoring confirmed bookings except under extraordinary circumstances

6. Buyer / Seller

• Buyer — a User seeking to purchase real estate properties via the Platform.
• Seller — a User offering real estate properties for sale.

The Platform acts as a facilitator; all transactions are independent contracts between Buyers and Sellers.

7. Vehicle Provider / Renter

• Vehicle Provider — a User listing vehicles for rental. Responsible for vehicle condition, registration, and lawful compliance.
• Renter — a User renting a vehicle via the Platform. Responsible for lawful use, driving license validity, and adherence to traffic laws.

8. Booking

A Booking refers to the process by which a Guest reserves a Service, resulting in a legally binding agreement once payment is confirmed, subject to Service-specific terms.

9. Listing

A Listing is any accommodation, property, or vehicle information submitted by a User for the purpose of offering it through the Platform.

10. Content

All text, images, video, audio, reviews, ratings, and other materials uploaded, submitted, or generated by Users on the Platform. Users retain ownership but grant the Company a license to use the Content as described in these Terms.

1.2 Interpretation Principles

• 1. Singular and Plural: Words in the singular include the plural and vice versa.
• 2. Headings: Headings and titles are for convenience only and do not affect interpretation.
• 3. References to Laws: References to Ethiopian law or regulations include amendments, successor legislation, and related legal instruments.
• 4. Entire Agreement: These Terms, including referenced policies (Privacy Policy, Refund Policy, etc.), constitute the entire agreement between Users and the Company regarding Platform usage.
• 5. Conflict Resolution: In case of any conflict between general definitions and service-specific rules, service-specific rules prevail for that category unless otherwise stated.

1.3 Operational Clarity

• Terms such as “Guest,” “Host,” and “Vehicle Provider” carry specific operational responsibilities defined in later articles.
• Users are expected to understand the role they assume in each service transaction.
• Each Service may impose additional obligations or rules that supplement these definitions, and Users agree to comply with all service-specific obligations.

ARTICLE 2 — PLATFORM ROLE AND LEGAL STATUS

2.1 Nature of the Platform

1. Technology-Based Intermediary

LagerHomes operates as a digital marketplace platform that connects independent Users who wish to provide or obtain Services. The Platform provides tools, infrastructure, and interfaces for:

• Listing properties and vehicles
• Searching and comparing available services
• Booking, payment, and reservation management
• Communication between Users

2. Non-Operational Role

The Company does not operate, own, or manage accommodations, properties, or vehicles listed on the Platform unless explicitly stated. All operational responsibilities for service delivery, safety, and compliance rest with the relevant Users.

3. Facilitation, Not Guarantee

The Platform facilitates transactions but does not guarantee:

• Availability of services
• Quality, safety, or suitability of accommodations, vehicles, or properties
• User compliance with obligations

2.2 Absence of Ownership or Control

1. Property and Vehicle Listings

All listings are created, maintained, and managed by independent Users (Hosts, Sellers, Vehicle Providers). The Company is not responsible for:

• Ownership disputes
• Listing accuracy
• Maintenance or operational conditions

2. Transaction Autonomy

All bookings, rentals, or sales form independent legal agreements between Users. The Company is not a party to such agreements and does not assume liability for performance, disputes, or breaches.

3. Third-Party Services

The Platform may integrate or provide access to third-party services (e.g., payment gateways, maps, verification systems). The Company is not responsible for third-party performance, errors, or disputes, except where mandated by Ethiopian law.

2.3 Legal Relationships

1. No Employment or Agency

Unless explicitly agreed in writing:

• Users are not employees of the Company
• Users are not agents or representatives of the Company
• The Company is not liable for Users’ operational decisions

2. No Partnership or Joint Venture

The use of the Platform does not create a partnership, joint venture, or profit-sharing arrangement between the Company and any User.

3. Independent Liability

Users remain solely responsible for all obligations, legal compliance, and financial responsibilities related to the Services they provide or utilize.

2.4 Limited Intermediary Liability

1. Transactional Liability

The Company does not guarantee, and shall not be liable for:

• Accuracy of listings, content, or pricing
• Cancellation or modification of Services by other Users
• Losses or damages arising from bookings, rentals, purchases, or vehicle use

2. Content Responsibility

Users are solely responsible for the content they upload or submit. The Company may moderate, remove, or restrict content but is not liable for its accuracy or legality.

3. Fraud and Misuse

The Company implements fraud prevention measures but is not responsible for fraudulent activities, misuse, or illegal acts conducted by Users. Users agree to assume full risk in such cases.

2.5 Compliance with Ethiopian Law

• 1. Local Jurisdiction: The Platform operates under Ethiopian law, including Civil Code and Commercial Code regulations. All Users agree to comply with applicable Ethiopian legal requirements when using Services.
• 2. Regulatory Responsibilities: While the Company facilitates access to Services, Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with local municipal laws, tax obligations, and licensing requirements (e.g., hospitality licenses, property sale approvals, vehicle registration).

2.6 Platform Rights and Operational Control

• 1. Right to Intervene: The Company may, at its discretion, take measures including suspending or terminating accounts, removing listings that violate laws or these Terms, and blocking transactions that appear fraudulent.
• 2. Discretionary Modifications: The Company may modify platform functionality, content display, or features to improve service, enhance security, or comply with legal requirements.
• 3. No Guarantee of Access: Access to the Platform may be temporarily unavailable due to system maintenance, technical errors, or force majeure events.

2.7 Operational Clarity for Multi-Service Platform

Given the four service categories (hospitality booking, property rentals, real estate sales, and car rentals), the Platform’s intermediary role means:

• Hospitality Booking & Rentals: The Company is not liable for guest satisfaction or property conditions. Hosts manage operations.
• Real Estate Sales: The Company facilitates discovery; legal verification, ownership transfer, and payment execution are entirely the responsibility of Buyers and Sellers.
• Car Rentals: The Company provides the interface; Vehicle Providers and Renters assume all operational and legal risks during vehicle use.

ARTICLE 3 — DETAILED SCOPE OF SERVICES

3.1 Hospitality Booking and Reservation Services

3.1.1 Service Overview

This service allows Users (“Guests”) to browse, search, and reserve short-term accommodations such as hotels, guesthouses, serviced apartments, and vacation rentals. The Platform provides digital tools for listing properties, availability management, pricing, booking, payment processing, and communication between Guests and Hosts.

3.1.2 Host Responsibilities

Hosts are solely responsible for:

• Accuracy and completeness of listings, including photos, descriptions, pricing, and availability
• Ensuring the property complies with local health, safety, and licensing regulations
• Honoring confirmed bookings except in cases of force majeure or unavoidable circumstances
• Providing clear check-in/check-out procedures and responding promptly to Guest inquiries
• Maintaining habitability, cleanliness, and security

3.1.3 Guest Responsibilities

Guests must:

• Review listing details carefully before booking
• Follow house rules and policies set by Hosts
• Pay all fees and charges promptly
• Use accommodations lawfully and avoid damage or disruption
• Communicate any issues with the Host or Platform immediately

3.1.4 Platform Limitations and Disclaimers

• The Company does not guarantee the quality, suitability, or availability of any listing
• Guests acknowledge that unforeseen circumstances (e.g., utility failure, maintenance issues) may occur
• The Platform facilitates booking but is not a party to the accommodation agreement

3.2 Property Rental Services

3.2.1 Scope of Service

This includes short-term rentals (daily/weekly leases, Airbnb-style) and long-term residential leases (monthly/yearly rentals). The Platform provides listing creation, booking facilitation, and communication channels.

3.2.2 Host Responsibilities

• Ensure legal ownership and authority to lease the property
• Maintain the property in habitable and safe condition
• Provide accurate descriptions, photos, and rental terms
• Respond promptly to rental requests and inquiries
• Abide by Ethiopian tenancy laws and municipal regulations

3.2.3 Guest Responsibilities

• Use the property lawfully and according to agreed rental terms
• Pay rent and any applicable fees promptly
• Avoid subleasing or illegal activities
• Report any damages immediately and follow dispute resolution procedures

3.2.4 Liability and Risk

The Platform does not control the property and is not liable for property conditions. Any disputes over damage, lease violations, or legal obligations are solely between the Host and Guest.

3.3 Real Estate Sales Services

3.3.1 Service Overview

The Platform facilitates the listing, discovery, and negotiation of residential and commercial real estate sales.

3.3.2 Seller Responsibilities

• Ensure they have lawful ownership and authority to sell
• Disclose all material facts, including encumbrances, liens, or legal disputes
• Provide accurate pricing, property specifications, and documentation

3.3.3 Buyer Responsibilities

• Conduct independent due diligence, including title verification and legal checks
• Engage professional advisors where necessary
• Ensure full compliance with Ethiopian property transfer laws

3.3.4 Platform Role

The Platform acts as a facilitator and listing service only. The Company is not a broker, financial advisor, or legal representative. The Platform does not guarantee the legality, completeness, or enforceability of any transaction.

3.4 Car Rental Services

3.4.1 Scope of Service

Users may rent vehicles for short-term use through listings on the Platform.

3.4.2 Vehicle Provider Responsibilities

• Ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and complies with Ethiopian vehicle regulations
• Maintain valid registration, licensing, and insurance
• Accurately describe vehicle condition, capacity, and features
• Respond promptly to rental requests and report any damage or incidents

3.4.3 Renter Responsibilities

• Possess a valid Ethiopian driver’s license
• Follow all Ethiopian traffic laws and road safety regulations
• Use the vehicle responsibly and for lawful purposes
• Immediately report accidents, theft, or damage to the Vehicle Provider and Platform

3.4.4 Risk Allocation and Liability

All risks arising from vehicle use, including accidents, fines, or damages, are the responsibility of the Renter and Vehicle Provider. The Company is not liable for any vehicle-related incidents or financial loss.

3.5 General Platform Rights and Responsibilities Across All Services

• 1. Facilitation Only: The Platform provides digital infrastructure but does not manage service operations.
• 2. User Accountability: All Users are responsible for their own compliance, accuracy, and behavior.
• 3. Moderation Rights: The Company may remove content, suspend listings, or restrict access to maintain compliance, safety, and operational integrity.
• 4. Disclaimer of Guarantees: The Company does not guarantee performance, quality, or safety of any service or transaction.

ARTICLE 4 — USER ELIGIBILITY AND VERIFICATION

4.1 General Eligibility Requirements

• Age Requirement: Users must be at least 18 years of age or of legal age to enter into contracts in Ethiopia. Minors are strictly prohibited from using the services.
• Legal Capacity: Users must have the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements under Ethiopian law.
• Compliance with Laws: Users must comply with all applicable Ethiopian laws and regulations. Non-compliance may result in immediate suspension.
• No Prohibited Status: Users may not be banned, restricted, or under investigation by authorities or regulatory bodies in Ethiopia or abroad.

4.2 Verification Requirements (KYC)

The Company may require verification of Users to ensure eligibility and platform safety. This may include:

• Identity Verification: Government-issued identification, biometric, or facial verification.
• Contact Verification: Verification of phone number, email address.
• Address Verification: Proof of residence or business address.
• Payment Method Verification: Validation of bank accounts, mobile wallets.
• Ongoing Monitoring: The Company may conduct continuous monitoring to ensure compliance.

4.3 Special Requirements Per Service

• Hospitality & Property Rentals: Hosts must provide proof of ownership or lawful authorization to list properties. Guests must provide identity verification to confirm bookings.
• Real Estate Sales: Sellers must provide legal documentation proving ownership and right to sell. Buyers may be required to complete verification for transaction security.
• Car Rentals: Vehicle Providers must submit vehicle registration, insurance, and ownership documentation. Renters must provide a valid Ethiopian driver’s license.

4.4 User Responsibilities Regarding Verification

Users must provide true, complete, and accurate information at all times. Providing false information may result in permanent account termination, restriction from platform services, and legal action.

4.5 Company Rights

The Company reserves the right to reject registration, suspend accounts temporarily pending verification, and terminate accounts for persistent failure to meet requirements. The Company shall not be liable for loss of access or damages arising from enforcement.

ARTICLE 5 — ACCOUNT REGISTRATION, SECURITY, AND CONTROL

5.1 Account Registration

• Accurate Information: Users must provide true, complete, and accurate information during registration.
• Unique Account: Each User may only register one active account per service category unless explicitly approved.
• Eligibility & Approval: Registration is subject to verification, and the Company reserves the right to approve or reject registrations.

5.2 Account Security

Users are fully responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of login credentials. Users must immediately notify the Company of unauthorized access. The Company implements reasonable security but cannot guarantee complete protection against hacking or data breaches.

5.3 Account Usage and Responsibility

Users are fully responsible for all actions performed under their accounts. Users may not misrepresent identity, use another person's account, or engage in fraudulent or illegal activity.

5.4 Company Rights and Controls

The Company may temporarily suspend or permanently terminate accounts for verification failures, security breaches, or persistent violations. The Company is not liable for any loss resulting from account suspension or termination.

5.5 Multi-Service Account Integration

Users may utilize a single account across multiple services if verified. Certain verification requirements may vary depending on the service category.

ARTICLE 6 — BOOKINGS, RESERVATIONS, AND CONTRACT FORMATION

6.1 Booking and Reservation Overview

A “Booking” is a confirmed request to reserve a Service. The Platform provides tools for searching, scheduling, payments, and communication. All Bookings create direct agreements between Users; the Company acts solely as a facilitator.

6.2 Booking Process

Users submit a request, and Providers must respond within a specified timeframe. A Booking becomes legally binding once accepted and payment is confirmed. Service-specific rules govern availability locks and binding agreements.

6.3 Payment and Contractual Effect

Payment must be completed through Platform-approved methods. Upon payment confirmation, a binding legal contract exists between Users. The Platform may charge service fees, which do not affect User-to-User obligations.

6.4 Modifications and Cancellations

Users may request changes subject to Provider approval. Service-specific cancellation rules apply regarding refunds and penalties. The Platform may cancel bookings due to fraud detection or force majeure.

6.5 Fraud Prevention and Verification

The Platform reserves the right to verify bookings to prevent fraud. Bookings may be suspended until verification is complete, without liability to the Company.

6.6 User Responsibilities and Risk Allocation

Users must honor accepted bookings, provide accurate details, and communicate promptly. Providers are responsible for fulfilling obligations, and the Company is not liable for failure to deliver services or quality issues.

ARTICLE 7 — PAYMENTS, FEES, COMMISSIONS, AND FINANCIAL PROCESSING

7.1 Payment Methods

Users must complete all transactions via Platform-approved methods (e.g., bank transfers in ETB, mobile money like Telebirr, or cards). The Platform uses secure processing but is not responsible for external bank failures.

7.2 Payment Responsibilities by Service

• Hospitality & Property Rentals: Guests pay the specified amount; Hosts ensure clear refund policies.
• Real Estate Sales: Buyers deposit necessary funds; Sellers verify receipt. The Company does not hold ownership of funds.
• Car Rentals: Renters pay rental fees and extras; Providers specify terms and penalties.

7.3 Platform Fees and Commissions

The Platform may charge service fees, automatically deducted from payouts. The Company reserves the right to modify fee structures with reasonable prior notice.

7.4 Payment Confirmation and Transfer

Bookings are not confirmed until payment is processed. Payouts are transferred according to the Platform's schedule. The Company is not liable for delays caused by external banks.

7.5 Deposits, Taxes, and Disputes

Providers may require security deposits. Users are responsible for all applicable Ethiopian taxes. Unresolved payment disputes between Users must first be attempted directly; the Company may mediate but is not financially liable.

ARTICLE 8 — CANCELLATION, REFUNDS, AND NO-SHOW POLICY

8.1 General Principles

Each Listing must clearly define its cancellation and refund policy prior to booking. These terms form part of the binding agreement between Users. Cancellation eligibility is strictly time-dependent.

8.2 Standard Cancellation Policy Categories

• Flexible Policy: Full refund if canceled within a defined timeframe.
• Moderate Policy: Partial refund depending on early cancellation.
• Strict Policy: Limited or no refund after confirmation.
• Custom Policy: Providers may define clear, lawful custom policies.

8.3 Service-Specific Rules & No-Shows

Rules vary by service (Hospitality, Long-Term Rentals, Real Estate, Car Rentals). A "No-Show" generally results in no refund, with exceptions only for verified emergencies or force majeure events.

8.4 Refund Processing & Company Role

Refunds are processed using the original method, subject to external processing times. Deductions may apply for service fees. The Company facilitates but does not guarantee refunds and bears no financial liability.

ARTICLE 9 — SECURITY DEPOSITS AND DAMAGE LIABILITY

9.1 Purpose of Security Deposits

A "Security Deposit" is a refundable amount required to cover potential damages, missing items, excessive cleaning, or rule violations. All deposits must be clearly disclosed in Listings.

9.2 Damage Responsibility and Deductions

Guests and Renters are fully responsible for any damage or misuse. Providers should document pre-use condition and report damages promptly with evidence. Deposits may be deducted if verified damage occurs.

9.3 Dispute Resolution for Damages

Users should resolve disputes directly. The Company may assist in reviewing evidence but is not obligated to make binding decisions. The Company assumes no liability for unreported damages or insufficient evidence.

ARTICLE 10 — USER CONDUCT, OBLIGATIONS, AND PLATFORM BEHAVIOR POLICY

Users must be lawful, honest, and respectful. Prohibited activities include fraudulent conduct, illegal business operations, and attempting to bypass platform payments. Users must accurately represent their identity, property, and vehicles.

10.1 Property and Vehicle Usage Rules

Users must use properties/vehicles for intended purposes only, follow house rules, and avoid unauthorized events or reckless driving.

10.2 Enforcement Actions

The Platform reserves the right to investigate, suspend accounts, and remove listings. Users are legally accountable under Ethiopian law and agree to indemnify the Platform from claims arising from their misconduct.

ARTICLE 11 — LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND PLATFORM DISCLAIMER

The Platform is provided "as-is" without warranties. The Company does not guarantee the condition of properties, vehicles, or user behavior. The Company acts as an intermediary and is not responsible for transaction failures.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Company's liability shall not exceed the total service fees paid for the specific transaction. The Company is not liable for indirect damages, technical failures, third-party errors, or force majeure events.

ARTICLE 12 — INDEMNIFICATION

Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless Lager Digital Solutions PLC from claims, losses, and legal costs arising from their breach of Terms, misuse of the Platform, legal violations, service disputes, or property damage. The Company reserves the right to assume legal defense, and costs shall be borne by the responsible User.

ARTICLE 13 — INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

All intellectual property rights related to the Platform are exclusively owned by the Company. Users are granted a limited, revocable license to access the Platform. Users retain ownership of their uploaded content but grant the Company a license to use it. Users may not infringe third-party IP rights, and the Company reserves the right to remove non-compliant content.

ARTICLE 14 — REVIEWS, RATINGS, AND CONTENT AUTHENTICITY

Only Users with verified transactions may submit reviews. Reviews must be truthful, fair, and free from offensive language. Prohibited practices include fake reviews, rating manipulation, and incentivized reviews. The Company may moderate content but does not guarantee accuracy. Users are legally liable for false statements.

ARTICLE 15 — DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND ARBITRATION

Disputes must first be addressed through good faith negotiation. The Company may optionally mediate. If unresolved, disputes shall be referred to arbitration in Ethiopia under Ethiopian law. Users waive the right to class action lawsuits against the Company. The Company is not liable for the outcome of disputes between Users.

ARTICLE 16 — TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION OF ACCOUNTS

The Company reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts for Terms violations, fraud, illegal conduct, or verification failures. Enforcement actions may lead to loss of access, active transaction cancellation, and financial impact. Users may also voluntarily close their accounts once all obligations are met.

ARTICLE 17 — FORCE MAJEURE

The Company is not liable for delays or failures caused by events beyond reasonable control (natural disasters, pandemics, government actions, infrastructure failures). In such events, services may be suspended, and standard policies may be overridden without financial liability to the Company.

ARTICLE 18 — PRIVACY AND DATA PROTECTION

18.1 Data Collection & Usage

We collect personal, transactional, and device data to provide services, verify identities, and prevent fraud. By using the Platform, Users consent to this collection. The Company does not sell data to third parties.

18.2 Storage, Security, & Rights

Data is stored securely using encryption and access controls. Data may be shared with essential third-party service providers or legal authorities. Users have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of their data subject to legal retention periods.

ARTICLE 19 — PAYMENT, REFUNDS, AND TRANSACTION POLICIES

Users must pay all amounts due using accepted methods. Payments are required at booking. Cancellations are handled per service policies, and refunds are processed minus applicable fees. Fraudulent transactions may result in immediate account termination. Users initiating baseless chargebacks will be held liable.

ARTICLE 20 — MODIFICATIONS OF TERMS AND POLICIES

The Company reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. Notice will be provided via email or Platform alerts. Continued use of the Platform implies acceptance of updated Terms. Modifications are essential for legal compliance and operational efficiency under Ethiopian law.

© Lager Homes. All Rights Reserved.