Terms of Service

Effective Date: January 1, 2024

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of the services provided by Cates Clock Repair ("Company," "we," "our," or "us") and your access to our website catesclkrepair.com. By using our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. Services Description

Cates Clock Repair provides professional clock repair, restoration, and maintenance services including:

• Antique clock restoration and preservation
• Mechanical movement repair and adjustment
• Wall and table clock repair services
• Quartz movement replacement
• Clock appraisal and consultation services
• Emergency repair services

All services are provided by qualified technicians using professional-grade equipment and techniques.

2. Service Process

Evaluation and Estimates

We provide free initial evaluations for all timepieces. Detailed repair estimates will be provided before beginning any work. Estimates are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

Authorization and Payment

Work will not commence until you provide written or verbal authorization. Payment is due upon completion of services unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

Shipping and Handling

For customers using our nationwide shipping service, all shipping costs and insurance are the responsibility of the customer unless otherwise agreed upon.

3. Pricing and Payment

Service pricing is based on the complexity of work required, parts needed, and time invested. Payment terms include:

• Payment is due in full upon completion of services
• We accept cash, check, and major credit cards
• For services exceeding $500, a 50% deposit may be required
• Emergency service requests may incur additional fees
• Returned check fees apply as permitted by state law

4. Warranty and Service Coverage

Service Warranty

We provide a 90-day warranty on our repair services under normal use conditions. This warranty covers:

• Workmanship and repair quality
• Replacement parts installed during service
• Proper functioning of repaired mechanisms

Warranty Exclusions

The warranty does not cover:

• Damage due to misuse, abuse, or accidents
• Normal wear and tear of mechanical components
• Damage from environmental factors (moisture, temperature extremes)
• Modifications made by other parties after our service
• Battery-operated movements (covered by manufacturer warranty)

5. Customer Responsibilities

Customers are responsible for:

• Providing accurate information about the timepiece and its condition
• Proper packaging for shipped items following our guidelines
• Prompt payment upon completion of services
• Retrieving completed items within 60 days of notification
• Following provided care and maintenance instructions

6. Storage and Unclaimed Property

Items left at our facility for more than 60 days after completion notification will be subject to storage fees of $5 per day. Items not claimed within 180 days may be disposed of according to state abandoned property laws after appropriate notice.

7. Limitation of Liability

Our liability is limited to the actual value of services provided. We are not liable for:

• Consequential or incidental damages
• Loss of use or sentimental value
• Damage to items with pre-existing conditions not disclosed
• Items damaged during shipping (covered by shipping insurance)
• Antique items that may not withstand repair processes

In no event shall our total liability exceed the amount paid for services.

8. Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays or inability to perform services due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, government regulations, or supply chain disruptions.

9. Intellectual Property

All content on our website, including text, images, logos, and designs, is the property of Cates Clock Repair and is protected by copyright and trademark laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use our content without written permission.

10. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. By using our services, you consent to the practices described in our Privacy Policy.

11. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from these Terms or our services will be resolved through:

• Good faith negotiation between parties
• Mediation if negotiation is unsuccessful
• Binding arbitration as a final resort

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota.

12. Modifications to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective upon posting to our website. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

13. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

14. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms of Service or our services, please contact us:

15. Acknowledgment

By using our services or website, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our services.