By accessing or using the HeyChef mobile application ("App," "Service," "we," "us," or "our"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, do not use the App.
Important: Please read these terms carefully before using HeyChef. These terms contain important information about your legal rights, including mandatory arbitration and class action waiver provisions.
1. Description of Service
HeyChef is a marketplace platform that connects users seeking personal chef services ("Users" or "Clients") with professional chefs ("Chefs" or "Service Providers"). We facilitate bookings, communications, and payments but do not provide chef services directly.
Key Point: HeyChef is a technology platform only. We are not responsible for the actual chef services provided.
2. Eligibility
To use HeyChef, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts
- Not be prohibited from using the Service under applicable laws
- Provide accurate and complete registration information
3. User Accounts
3.1 Account Creation
- You must create an account to access most features
- You are responsible for maintaining account security
- You must provide accurate, current information
- One person or entity may not maintain multiple accounts
3.2 Account Types
- User/Client Account: For booking chef services
- Chef Account: For offering chef services (requires additional verification)
3.3 Account Security
- Keep your password confidential
- Notify us immediately of unauthorized access
- You are responsible for all activities under your account
Security Notice: Never share your account credentials. You are liable for all activities performed using your account.
4. Chef Services
4.1 For Chefs
As a Chef on HeyChef, you agree to:
- Provide accurate information about your services, qualifications, and availability
- Maintain appropriate licenses, permits, and insurance required in your jurisdiction
- Deliver services professionally and as described
- Comply with all food safety and health regulations
- Respond promptly to booking requests and messages
- Honor confirmed bookings or provide reasonable notice of cancellation
4.2 Chef Independence
Chefs are independent contractors, not employees of HeyChef. We do not control how chefs provide their services. Chefs set their own pricing, availability, and service terms.
6. Cancellation and Refund Policy
6.1 User Cancellations
- More than 48 hours before service: Full refund
- 24-48 hours before service: 50% refund
- Less than 24 hours before service: No refund
6.2 Chef Cancellations
- Chefs should provide reasonable notice
- Late cancellations by Chefs result in full user refund
- Repeated cancellations may result in account suspension
Disputes: Contact support@heychef.com for cancellation disputes. We will review on a case-by-case basis.
7. User Conduct
You agree NOT to:
- Violate any laws or regulations
- Infringe on others' intellectual property rights
- Harass, abuse, or harm other users
- Post false, misleading, or defamatory content
- Attempt to bypass payment systems or fees
- Use the Service for any illegal purpose
- Share your account credentials
- Scrape or harvest data from the Service
- Upload viruses or malicious code
- Impersonate others or misrepresent affiliations
- Attempt to circumvent the platform to transact directly
Violation Warning: Violating these conduct rules may result in immediate account suspension or termination.
10. Disclaimers
10.1 Service "AS IS"
The Service is provided "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE". We make no warranties about reliability, accuracy, or availability. Your use of the Service is at your own risk.
10.2 No Guarantee of Quality
- We do not guarantee the quality, safety, or legality of chef services
- We do not guarantee the accuracy of chef profiles or listings
- Users interact with Chefs at their own risk
Disclaimer: Any background checks or verifications are for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee chef qualifications, safety, or suitability.
11. Limitation of Liability
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW:
- HeyChef is not liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages
- Our total liability shall not exceed the fees you paid to us in the past 12 months
- We are not responsible for disputes between Users and Chefs
- We are not liable for any injury, illness, or damage resulting from chef services
12. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless HeyChef, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, losses, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising from:
- Your use of the Service
- Your violation of these Terms
- Your violation of any rights of another person or entity
- Your content or actions on the platform
13. Dispute Resolution
13.1 Informal Resolution
Contact us first at support@heychef.com. We will attempt to resolve disputes informally.
13.2 Arbitration
- Any disputes will be resolved through binding arbitration
- You waive your right to a jury trial
- Class action lawsuits are not permitted
14. Food Safety and Liability
14.1 Chef Responsibilities
Chefs are solely responsible for:
- Food safety and hygiene practices
- Compliance with health codes and regulations
- Proper food handling and storage
- Allergen disclosure and management
- Obtaining necessary permits and insurance
14.2 User Responsibilities
Users are responsible for:
- Disclosing dietary restrictions and allergies
- Ensuring safe and clean workspace for Chefs
- Verifying Chef credentials and reviews
14.3 HeyChef's Role
Important: We are a technology platform only. We do not inspect, supervise, or control chef services. We are not responsible for food-borne illness or allergic reactions. Users and Chefs assume all risks of food service transactions.
By using HeyChef, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.
