Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using CourtSwap, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our platform.

2. Description of Service

CourtSwap is an online marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of padel equipment in Portugal and Spain. We provide a platform for users to list, discover, and purchase second-hand and new padel gear.

3. User Accounts

To use certain features of CourtSwap, you must create an account. You agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete information
• Maintain the security of your account credentials
• Notify us immediately of any unauthorized access
• Be responsible for all activities under your account

4. Listing and Selling

When listing items for sale, you agree to:

• Provide accurate descriptions and images of your items
• Set fair and honest prices
• Only list items you have the right to sell
• Ship items promptly after receiving payment
• Respond to buyer inquiries in a timely manner

5. Buying

When purchasing items, you agree to:

• Complete payment for items you commit to purchase
• Provide accurate shipping information
• Confirm receipt of items in a timely manner
• Report any issues with items through proper channels

6. Fees and Payments

CourtSwap charges a platform fee on successful transactions. All payments are processed securely through Stripe. Sellers receive their funds after the buyer confirms delivery or after the protection period expires.

7. Prohibited Items and Conduct

The following are prohibited on CourtSwap:

• Counterfeit or replica items
• Stolen merchandise
• Items that infringe on intellectual property rights
• Fraudulent listings or misrepresentation
• Harassment or abusive behavior towards other users
• Attempting to circumvent platform fees

8. Buyer Protection

We offer buyer protection on eligible purchases. If an item is significantly different from its description or doesn't arrive, buyers may be eligible for a refund. Claims must be submitted within the protection period (3 days after delivery confirmation).

9. Seller Protection

Sellers are also protected on courtswaps:

• Using tracked shipping serves as proof of delivery and protects against false non-delivery claims
• Buyers who repeatedly file false or abusive disputes receive strikes and may be suspended or banned
• Sellers have 3 days to respond to any dispute with evidence and their side of the story

10. Payment Escrow

All payments are held in escrow until the transaction is completed. For shipping orders, funds are automatically released 3 days after delivery confirmation. For in-person transactions, sellers must confirm delivery with proof, and funds are released 3 days after the buyer has had opportunity to verify the item. Buyers can confirm receipt early or open a dispute if there are issues.

11. Returns and Refunds

Our returns policy is designed to be fair to both buyers and sellers:

• Under EU consumer law, you have 14 days to withdraw from a purchase for any reason (right of withdrawal)
• Items must be returned in the same condition as received. Worn or used items may not be eligible for a full refund
• Return shipping costs are paid by the buyer unless the item was significantly not as described

12. Disputes and Resolution

If there is a problem with your purchase, the following dispute process applies:

10.1 Dispute Process

• Buyers can open a dispute after delivery is confirmed if the item is significantly different from the description, damaged, or not as agreed
• The seller has 3 days to respond to the dispute with their side and evidence
• Our team reviews both sides and makes a decision
• If the buyer wins, they receive a full refund. If the seller wins, the funds are released to them

10.2 Strike System for Abusive Disputes

To maintain a fair marketplace and prevent dispute abuse, the following strike system applies to buyers who lose disputes:

• First lost dispute: Warning only
• Second lost dispute: First strike + 7-day purchasing suspension
• Third lost dispute: Second strike + 7-day purchasing suspension
• Fourth lost dispute: Third strike + permanent account ban

During suspensions, users can still browse and manage their listings but cannot make purchases. Strikes are cumulative and do not expire.

13. Limitation of Liability

courtswaps is a platform that facilitates transactions between users. We are not responsible for the quality, safety, or legality of items listed. We are not liable for any damages arising from transactions between users.

14. Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms. Users may also delete their accounts at any time through their account settings.

15. Changes to Terms

We may update these terms from time to time. We will notify users of significant changes via email or through the platform. Continued use of courtswaps after changes constitutes acceptance of the new terms.

16. Governing Law

These Terms of Service are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Portugal. Any disputes arising from these terms or your use of courtswaps shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Lisbon, Portugal. Users must be at least 18 years old to use our platform.

17. Contact

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us at [email protected]