Privacy Policy

We use your details to communicate about your project, send proposals, create contracts, and deliver the architectural services you're paying us for. That's the main thing.

Sometimes we'll send updates about our firm - new projects we're proud of, sustainability initiatives, or changes to our services. Don't worry, we're not gonna spam you daily. You can opt out anytime.

We keep project records for legal and professional obligations. In Ontario, we're required to maintain certain documentation for specific periods. It's part of being a licensed practice.

If your project turns out amazing (and they usually do), we might ask to feature it in our portfolio. We'll always get your permission first though.

Your info stays with our team at Ember Halora. That includes our architects, designers, and administrative staff who need access to do their jobs.

Sometimes we work with consultants - structural engineers, sustainability specialists, contractors - who need project details. They're bound by their own professional standards and confidentiality agreements.

We use cloud-based tools for project management and communication. These providers (like email services, file storage) have their own security measures in place. We pick reputable ones that comply with Canadian privacy laws.

We won't sell your information to third parties. That's not our business model and honestly seems kinda sleazy.

We take reasonable precautions to keep your information secure. Our systems use encryption, secure servers, and access controls. Only team members who need specific information can access it.

Physical documents are stored in locked cabinets at our Toronto office. Digital files are backed up regularly and protected with passwords.

That said, no system is 100% bulletproof. We do our best, but we can't guarantee absolute security. If there's ever a breach that affects your data, we'll let you know promptly.

You've got rights when it comes to your personal information. You can ask to see what we have on file, request corrections if something's wrong, or ask us to delete your data (with some legal limitations).

Want to opt out of marketing emails? There's an unsubscribe link in every message, or just shoot us an email. We won't take it personally.

If you've got concerns about how we're handling your information, talk to us first. We're reasonable people and we'll work it out. If you're still not satisfied, you can file a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.

Our website uses cookies - those little files that remember if you've visited before. We use them for basic stuff like keeping the site functioning properly and understanding which pages people visit.

We use Google Analytics to see general traffic patterns. It's anonymized data that helps us understand if our content is actually useful or if we need to rethink our approach.

Your browser settings can block cookies if you want. Some parts of the site might not work perfectly, but you'll still be able to browse and contact us.

Ember Halora Architecture operates under the regulations of the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA). We're licensed professionals, which means we're bound by their code of conduct and ethical standards.

Part of that includes maintaining confidentiality about client projects and information. It's not just good practice - it's a professional requirement.

We comply with Canada's Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and Ontario's privacy legislation. These laws govern how businesses handle personal information, and we take them seriously.

Our practice maintains professional liability insurance, which also requires us to follow specific data management and privacy protocols.

We keep project records for as long as legally required - typically 7 to 10 years after project completion. This is mandated by professional regulations and is standard practice in architecture.

Why so long? Buildings last a long time, and sometimes questions come up years later. Having proper documentation protects both you and us.

Marketing contact information is kept until you ask us to remove it or until it's clear you're no longer interested (usually after a couple years of no interaction).

When we do dispose of information, we do it securely - shredding physical documents and permanently deleting digital files.

Our website might link to other sites - maybe a material supplier, a sustainability organization, or a project we collaborated on. Once you click those links, you're on their turf and their privacy policies apply.

We try to link to reputable sites, but we can't control their practices. It's worth checking their privacy policies if you're concerned.

Privacy laws and best practices evolve, and so might this policy. If we make significant changes, we'll update the date at the top and let current clients know.

For major changes that affect how we handle your data, we'll reach out directly to get your updated consent if needed.

It's worth checking back occasionally, though let's be honest - privacy policies aren't exactly thrilling reading material.