Terms of Service
A-du Terms of Service
Table of Contents
1. Scope and Application
These Terms of Service ("Terms") constitute a binding legal agreement between you and A-du, LLC ("A-du," "we," "us," or "our") governing your access to and use of the A-du website, mobile applications, and related technology services (collectively, the "A-du Platform").
The A-du Platform is a technology-enabled online marketplace and venue that connects independent landlords and managers ("Landlords") with individuals seeking mid-to-long-term rental accommodations ("Tenants") for stays of thirty-one (31) days or longer within A-du's supported markets (currently Los Angeles County, San Diego County and San Francisco, California, and New York City, New York). A-du provides technology infrastructure, software tools, and platform services enabling Landlords and Tenants to find each other, communicate directly, negotiate rental terms, and arrange rentals.
By accessing or using the A-du Platform, creating an account, listing a property, or booking accommodations, you agree to be bound by these Terms and all incorporated policies. These Terms apply to all Members regardless of whether you are a Landlord or Tenant.
Critical Legal Framework: A-du's Limited Role
A-du operates exclusively as a technology platform and neutral online marketplace. A-du is NOT:
- A party to any rental agreement, lease, or contract between Landlords and Tenants
- A real estate broker, agent, or salesperson under California Business & Professions Code § 10131
- A property manager under California Business & Professions Code § 10131.6
- A landlord, lessor, sublessor, or rental housing provider
- An employer, agent, representative, or fiduciary for any Member
- A co-host, property management company, or vacation rental operator
- A travel agency, booking agent, or accommodation provider
All rental contracts, negotiations, and relationships are formed directly and exclusively between Landlords and Tenants as independent parties. A-du provides technology tools enabling Members to connect and transact independently. When Landlords and Tenants make or accept booking requests, they are entering into contracts directly with each other, not with A-du.
A-du's role is strictly limited to: (a) providing software and technology infrastructure, (b) facilitating connections between independent users, (c) orchestrating payment instructions to Stripe, Inc. as the third-party payment facilitator (A-du does not itself collect, hold, or disburse rental funds), and (d) offering platform services to both Landlords and Tenants as separate customer groups.
Why A-du is a Technology Platform, Not a Broker
California law requires real estate broker licensing for those who, for compensation, act "for another or others" in soliciting tenants, obtaining listings, negotiating leases, or collecting rents (Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 10131). A-du avoids broker classification because:
- A-du serves both sides as customers - We provide technology services to Landlords and Tenants equally, not representing either party's interests
- Members act independently - Landlords create their own listings, set their own prices, select their own tenants, and negotiate their own terms without A-du direction or control
- Direct party negotiations - Landlords and Tenants communicate and negotiate directly with each other through A-du's messaging tools
- Platform fees, not commissions - A-du charges technology service fees to both customer groups for software access, not brokerage commissions for representing parties
- No rent collection by A-du - All money movement on the A-du Platform is performed by Stripe, Inc., a licensed payment facilitator, which settles rental funds directly into the Landlord's own Stripe Connected Account. A-du does not itself take custody of rental funds and does not act as the Landlord's collection agent, escrow holder, or money transmitter
31+ Day Minimum and California Landlord-Tenant Law
All rentals facilitated through the A-du Platform must have a minimum duration of thirty-one (31) consecutive days. At 31+ days, the transaction is a residential tenancy governed by California landlord-tenant law rather than a short-term or transient occupancy. Landlords using the A-du Platform are responsible for complying with all applicable California and local landlord-tenant requirements, including (where applicable) the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), just-cause eviction rules, local rent-control ordinances, source-of-income protections, and fair housing laws.
A-du, LLC is a software platform and is not a California real estate broker or salesperson. A-du does not represent Landlords in the rental of real property, does not solicit or negotiate rental transactions on behalf of Landlords, does not collect compensation contingent on the formation of a tenancy, and does not engage in any activity that requires a real estate license under the California Real Estate Law (California Business & Professions Code §§ 10000 et seq.). Landlords, not A-du, are responsible for determining whether their own activities on or off the A-du Platform require a license or registration.
Acceptance of Terms
By clicking "I Accept," creating an account, accessing the platform, listing a property, or submitting a booking request, you acknowledge that you have read these Terms, understand them, and agree to be legally bound by them. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not use the A-du Platform.
IMPORTANT: These Terms establish that you are using a technology platform where you enter into agreements directly with other independent users. A-du is not your agent, broker, property manager, or landlord. You are solely responsible for your rental activities, legal compliance, and interactions with other Members.
2. Definitions
The following terms have the meanings set forth below when used in these Terms. Defined terms may be used in singular or plural form.
means the A-du websites (including www.a-du.homes and any subdomains), mobile applications, software, technology infrastructure, features, tools, and services, collectively. The A-du Platform is a technology service provided by A-du, LLC.
means a Tenant's request to rent a Property for specific dates and terms, submitted through the A-du Platform. A Booking Request is an offer to enter into a rental agreement and does not create any binding obligation until accepted by the Landlord.
means a Booking Request that has been accepted by a Landlord through the Landlord's independent decision-making, resulting in a binding Rental Agreement formed directly between Landlord and Tenant. A-du is not a party to Confirmed Bookings.
means text, graphics, images, photographs, videos, audio, software, data, information, listings, reviews, messages, or other materials posted, uploaded, published, submitted, or transmitted through the A-du Platform by Members or A-du.
means the rental contract formed directly between Landlord and Tenant for rentals of 31+ days. Landlords and Tenants may optionally use A-du's lease-generation software, which assembles a lease document from fillable fields the parties themselves supply and from generic California residential lease language. The software is a recordkeeping and document-assembly tool only; it does not draft custom lease terms, advise on negotiation, review the resulting document for legal sufficiency, or form an attorney-client relationship with any Member. A-du is not a party to Lease Agreements, is not a law firm, and is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed California attorney. Use of the lease-generation software is optional; Landlords and Tenants may instead upload or sign their own lease documents.
means a Landlord's rental property advertisement and information posted on the A-du Platform. Listings are created, controlled, and maintained by Landlords for their own account and benefit. A-du does not create, modify, or control Listing content.
means any person or entity with an A-du account, whether Landlord or Tenant. Members are independent users of the A-du Platform and are not employees, agents, or representatives of A-du.
means the technology service fee charged to Members for access to and use of the A-du Platform's features, tools, and services. Platform Services Fees are NOT commissions, brokerage fees, or compensation for agency services. Platform Services Fees are compensation for technology infrastructure and software services provided by A-du. Tenants pay a Platform Services Fee of 3% for ACH bank transfers or 6.25% for card payments. There is no Platform Services Fee for Landlords at this time.
means the rental accommodation (apartment, house, room, or other residential unit) listed by a Landlord on the A-du Platform and located within one of A-du's supported markets (currently Los Angeles County, San Diego County and San Francisco, California, and New York City, New York).
means an independent Member who lists rental Properties on the A-du Platform for the Landlord's own account and benefit. Landlords include individual landlords, professional property managers, and property management companies. Landlords are not employees or agents of A-du and operate independently.
means the complete contractual relationship formed directly between Landlord and Tenant, including the Lease Agreement, house rules, policies, and any additional terms agreed between the parties. A-du is not a party to Rental Agreements.
means refundable funds required by Landlord for reservations of sixty-two (62) days or longer, paid by Tenant at booking confirmation through Stripe and deposited immediately and directly to the Landlord's Stripe Connected Account. The Security Deposit is the payment that confirms and secures the Tenant's reservation. The Security Deposit is received, held, and controlled by the Landlord, not by A-du. Landlords may maintain Security Deposit funds in their Stripe Connected Account or transfer to their bank account at their discretion. Landlords are solely responsible for holding and returning Security Deposits in compliance with California Civil Code § 1950.5 as amended by AB 12 (effective July 1, 2024), which caps Security Deposits at one (1) month's rent for all residential tenancies, subject to a narrow small-landlord exception permitting up to two (2) months' rent where the Landlord is a natural person (or an LLC in which all members are natural persons) owning no more than two residential rental properties with no more than four dwelling units total, and excluding service member tenants under Civil Code § 400. See the A-du Payment Terms for the full AB 12 framework. Landlords remain responsible for return obligations (21 days after tenancy termination with itemized deductions) under § 1950.5. A-du has no involvement in Security Deposit returns or disputes. Security Deposit returns are handled directly between Landlord and Tenant outside the A-du Platform. For reservations of sixty-one (61) days or less, no separate Security Deposit is collected; instead, Tenants pay the full reservation amount upfront to confirm the booking.
means any independent individual or business entity listing property-related services (such as cleaning, maintenance, repairs, landscaping) in the Services Marketplace directory feature. Service Providers are not employees, agents, or contractors of A-du.
means the optional informational directory feature within the A-du Platform where Service Providers may list contact information for property-related services. The Services Marketplace is purely informational; A-du does not facilitate, process, or participate in any service transactions.
means an independent Member seeking to rent residential accommodations through the A-du Platform for stays of 31+ days. Tenants are not employees or agents of A-du and act for their own account and benefit.
means these Terms of Service and all policies, guidelines, and supplemental terms incorporated by reference, including but not limited to the Privacy Policy, Community Standards, and Payment Terms.
means a Member who has completed A-du's identity verification and background screening processes through Stripe Identity and third-party verification providers. "Verified" status indicates only that certain identification steps were completed and does not constitute endorsement, warranty, or guarantee by A-du regarding Member identity, background, character, or conduct.
Key Terminology Distinctions
A-du charges "Platform Services Fees" for technology access and software tools, NOT "commissions" for brokerage services. This terminology distinction reflects that A-du provides technology infrastructure, not real estate brokerage representation.
Landlords and Tenants are "Members" who use the platform independently, NOT "clients" or "principals" whom A-du represents. This distinction emphasizes the absence of agency relationships.
Rental Agreements are formed "directly between Landlord and Tenant," with A-du explicitly not a party. This reinforces that A-du facilitates connections but does not enter into rental contracts.
A-du is consistently referred to as a "technology platform," "online marketplace," or "venue" rather than "rental service," "booking service," or "property management service." This framing emphasizes the technology infrastructure role.
Note on Defined Terms: Throughout these Terms, capitalized terms have the specific meanings defined in this Section 2. When interpreting these Terms, defined terms should be understood according to these definitions, which have been carefully crafted to reflect A-du's technology platform business model and legal status.
3. A-du Platform and Services
3.1 Technology Platform Services and Dual-Customer Model
A-du operates as a neutral technology platform and online venue serving two distinct customer groups: Landlords and Tenants. A-du provides technology services, software tools, and infrastructure enabling both customer groups to independently use the platform for their respective purposes.
Services Provided to Landlords:
- • Property listing creation and management tools
- • Tenant application review and screening access
- • Communication and messaging platform
- • Payment collection facilitation via Stripe
- • Lease template generation tools (optional)
- • Maintenance request management system
- • Document storage and reporting tools
- • Marketplace visibility and search optimization
- • Background check and verification services
- • Customer support for platform features
Services Provided to Tenants:
- • Property search and discovery tools
- • Identity verification and background checks
- • Application submission system
- • Secure payment processing
- • Lease documentation access and signing
- • Communication platform with Landlords
- • Maintenance request submission tools
- • Document storage and payment tracking
- • Dispute resolution support access
- • Customer support for platform features
Critical: A-du serves both Landlords and Tenants as independent customers, not as an agent or representative for either party. All decisions regarding listings, pricing, tenant selection, rental terms, property search, and application submissions are made independently and exclusively by Members. A-du does not direct, control, influence, or participate in these decisions.
3.2 Comprehensive Service Limitations and Disclaimers
A-du is not a party to rental agreements formed between Landlords and Tenants. A-du does NOT:
Own, control, manage, or operate any Properties listed on the platform
Act as a real estate broker, agent, or salesperson under California Business & Professions Code § 10131
Act as a property manager under California Business & Professions Code § 10131.6
Represent, advocate for, or act on behalf of any Member in any capacity — A-du orchestrates payment instructions to Stripe as a software platform and does not act as a collection agent, broker, or fiduciary for any Member (see Section 8.3)
Solicit prospective Tenants for Landlords or solicit Properties for Tenants
Negotiate or attempt to negotiate rental terms, prices, or conditions for any party
Advertise or market specific Properties as agent for Landlords - Landlords create their own Listings for their own benefit
Make recommendations, provide advice, or offer guidance regarding property selection, tenant selection, pricing, or rental terms
Exercise discretion, judgment, or decision-making authority on behalf of Members
Provide legal, real estate, financial, tax, insurance, or other professional advice
Draft custom lease agreements or legal documents for Members - A-du provides optional standardized templates only
Guarantee, warrant, verify, or endorse the accuracy, completeness, safety, legality, or quality of Listings, Members, or Properties
Inspect, approve, or certify property conditions, habitability, or legal compliance
Assume responsibility for Member conduct, rental performance, or Owner-Tenant relationships
Provide insurance against property damage, personal injury, or financial loss
Control Member behavior, business decisions, or actions outside the platform
Collect rent as agent for Landlords — all money movement is performed by Stripe, Inc. as the payment facilitator; A-du does not take custody of rental funds (Section 8.3)
Hold funds in trust accounts or act as trustee, escrow agent, or fiduciary
Act as landlord, tenant, lessor, lessee, or party to any Rental Agreement
Guarantee successful bookings, rental outcomes, or Member satisfaction
Earn commissions or brokerage fees - A-du earns technology Platform Services Fees from both customer groups
Have financial incentive to favor one party over another - both Landlords and Tenants pay for distinct services
Member Autonomy and Independent Control
Landlords maintain exclusive control over all Listing decisions, pricing, availability, tenant selection criteria, acceptance or rejection of Booking Requests, rental terms, and property management. Tenants maintain exclusive control over property search, application decisions, lease negotiations, and all rental commitments. A-du's role is strictly limited to providing neutral technology infrastructure enabling these independent Member actions.
3.3 Member Relationship with A-du
Your relationship with A-du, LLC is that of an independent customer using software services. A-du is not your employee, agent, joint venturer, partner, broker, property manager, collection agent, or fiduciary. All payment flows on the A-du Platform are conducted by Stripe, Inc. as the payment facilitator (see Section 8.3).
For Landlords: A-du does not direct or control your rental services, property management, or rental decisions, and you understand that you have complete discretion whether and when to rent your Property, to whom you rent, at what price, and on what terms you offer your Property for rent. You are solely responsible for creating your Listings, setting pricing, determining availability, establishing house rules, selecting Tenants, negotiating lease terms, and managing your Properties.
For Tenants: A-du does not direct or control your property search, application decisions, or rental commitments, and you understand that you have complete discretion regarding which Properties to view, which applications to submit, what rental terms to accept, and whether to enter into Rental Agreements. You are solely responsible for evaluating Properties, verifying information, negotiating terms, and making all rental decisions.
3.4 Geographic Scope
A-du's rental, leasing, build, and permitting services are currently available in Los Angeles County, San Diego County and San Francisco, California and New York City, New York. All Properties must be located within one of A-du's supported markets. Members must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances applicable to their locations and activities.
3.5 Minimum Rental Duration Requirement
All rentals facilitated through the A-du Platform must have a minimum duration of thirty-one (31) consecutive days. Properties may not be listed for rentals shorter than 31 days.
This minimum duration requirement is significant because California Business & Professions Code § 10131.01's exemption for transient occupancies of 30 days or less does not apply to A-du rentals. All rentals facilitated through A-du are subject to California landlord-tenant laws governing residential tenancies of 31+ days, including but not limited to the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), rent control provisions, security deposit regulations, habitability requirements, and just cause eviction protections where applicable.
3.6 Platform Availability and Modifications
A-du may modify, update, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the A-du Platform at any time with or without notice. A-du may impose limits on certain features or restrict access to parts or all of the platform. A-du is not liable for any modification, suspension, or discontinuation of the platform or any features.
Summary: What A-du Does vs. What Members Do
A-du Provides (Technology):
- ✓ Software platform and infrastructure
- ✓ Messaging and communication tools
- ✓ Payment processing facilitation
- ✓ Template generation tools
- ✓ Search and filtering features
- ✓ Document storage systems
- ✓ Identity verification services
- ✓ Customer support for platform issues
Members Control (Business Decisions):
- ✓ All listing content and pricing
- ✓ All tenant selection decisions
- ✓ All property search decisions
- ✓ All rental term negotiations
- ✓ All acceptance/rejection decisions
- ✓ All lease terms and conditions
- ✓ All property management activities
- ✓ All legal compliance obligations
4. Member Accounts and Profiles
4.1 Account Registration and Independent Status
To access most A-du Platform features, you must create a Member account. By creating an account, you become a Member of the A-du Platform as an independent user, not as an employee, agent, joint venturer, or partner of A-du.
Critical: Your Independent Relationship with A-du
Your relationship with A-du, LLC is that of an independent customer using software services. You are not an employee, agent, representative, joint venturer, broker, property manager, or partner of A-du, LLC. A-du, LLC does not act as your payment collection agent, escrow holder, or money transmitter; all money movement on the A-du Platform is conducted by Stripe, Inc. as the payment facilitator (see Section 8.3).
A-du does not direct or control your rental activities, property management, property search, or rental decisions. You have complete discretion over all aspects of your use of the platform and your rental transactions with other Members.
4.2 Registration Requirements
To create a Member account, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Provide accurate, current, and complete information including full legal name, email address, and phone number
- Create a secure password
- Agree to these Terms and all incorporated policies
- Complete identity verification when required (Section 5)
- Have legal capacity to enter into binding contracts under applicable law
You may not create an account if you have been previously suspended or removed from the A-du Platform, or if you are prohibited from using the platform under applicable law.
4.3 Account Information and Accuracy
You are responsible for maintaining accurate and current account information. You must promptly update your account information if it changes. Providing false, inaccurate, or misleading information may result in account suspension or termination and may violate applicable laws.
You are responsible for all activities that occur under your account and must keep your login credentials confidential. You must immediately notify A-du of any unauthorized access to your account or any other security breach.
4.4 Account Types and Member Roles
Landlord Accounts
Landlord accounts enable Members to list Properties, review Tenant applications, accept or reject Booking Requests, and manage rental relationships. Landlords include:
- • Individual landlords and landlords
- • Professional property managers
- • Property management companies
- • Real estate investors with rental properties
Landlords are independent business operators, not employees or agents of A-du. Landlords maintain exclusive control over all aspects of their Properties and rental decisions.
Tenant Accounts
Tenant accounts enable Members to search Properties, submit Booking Requests, communicate with Landlords, and enter into Rental Agreements. Tenants may be:
- • Individuals seeking personal housing
- • Professionals on temporary assignments
- • Students in academic programs
- • Families in transition or relocation
Tenants are independent consumers, not clients or principals represented by A-du. Tenants maintain exclusive control over property search, application decisions, and rental commitments.
Members may maintain both Landlord and Tenant capabilities in a single account, enabling them to both list Properties and search for accommodations. Each role operates independently with distinct rights and obligations.
4.5 Profile Information and Member Content
Members may create profiles containing biographical information, photos, verified credentials, reviews, and other content. Profile information helps other Members evaluate whether to enter into rental relationships. You are solely responsible for the accuracy, legality, and appropriateness of all profile content you post.
A-du may display profile information to other Members and may use profile information to improve platform services, prevent fraud, and verify identity. You grant A-du a license to use, display, and distribute your profile content as necessary to operate the platform.
4.6 Business Accounts and Entity Registration
Property management companies, real estate investment firms, and other business entities may create business accounts. Business accounts must identify the legal entity name, business structure, authorized representatives, and EIN or other tax identification.
The individual creating a business account represents and warrants that they have authority to bind the business entity to these Terms and to conduct transactions on the entity's behalf. The business entity is responsible for all activities under the business account.
4.7 Account Limitations and Prohibited Accounts
You may not:
- Create multiple accounts to circumvent restrictions or bans
- Share account access with others or allow others to use your account
- Create accounts using false or misleading information
- Create accounts for the purpose of violating these Terms or applicable laws
- Purchase, sell, rent, or trade account access
- Use automated tools to create accounts or harvest account information
4.8 No Agency or Employment Relationship
Creating a Member account does NOT establish any employment, agency, partnership, joint venture, or franchisee-franchisor relationship between you and A-du.
You are solely responsible for your own taxes, insurance, licenses, permits, and compliance with all applicable laws. A-du does not withhold taxes, provide benefits, or maintain workers' compensation insurance for Members. You are not entitled to employee benefits, unemployment insurance, workers' compensation, or other employment-related protections.
5. Identity Verification and Background Checks
5.1 Verification Requirements and Process
A-du requires Members to complete identity verification and background screening before certain platform features become available, including submitting Booking Requests (for Tenants) and accepting Booking Requests (for Landlords). Verification is conducted through third-party providers including Stripe Identity and background check services.
Verification Components May Include:
- • Government-issued photo identification verification
- • Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number verification
- • Criminal background checks (felony and misdemeanor records)
- • Sex offender registry checks
- • Eviction history reports (for Tenants)
- • Credit reports (for Tenants, with consent)
- • Watch list screening (OFAC, terrorist databases)
- • Phone number and email verification
5.2 Critical Disclaimers: Verification Does NOT Constitute Endorsement
IMPORTANT: "Verified" Status Limitations
A "Verified Member" badge or status indicates ONLY that a Member has completed certain identification and screening steps through third-party verification providers. Verification does NOT mean and should NOT be interpreted to mean that A-du:
- ✗ Endorses, recommends, or vouches for any Member
- ✗ Guarantees any Member's identity, background, character, or conduct
- ✗ Warrants that any Member is trustworthy, safe, or reliable
- ✗ Assumes any liability for Member actions or omissions
- ✗ Conducts ongoing monitoring of Member behavior
- ✗ Verifies all aspects of a Member's background or history
- ✗ Guarantees that verification information is current, accurate, or complete
- ✗ Prevents fraud, misconduct, or criminal activity
Background checks have inherent limitations and may not reveal all past conduct or predict future behavior. Criminal records may be incomplete, inaccurate, or outdated. Identity verification does not guarantee that a person is who they claim to be.
5.3 Independent Due Diligence Required
YOU ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING YOUR OWN DUE DILIGENCE AND TAKING APPROPRIATE PRECAUTIONS WHEN INTERACTING WITH OTHER MEMBERS.
You should independently verify information about other Members, Properties, and rental terms. You should meet prospective landlords or tenants, inspect Properties in person when possible, verify identity through additional means, check references, and take any other steps you deem appropriate to protect your safety and interests. Do not rely on A-du's verification processes as your sole basis for making rental decisions.
5.4 Verification as Service to Both Sides
A-du provides identity verification and background screening services to both Landlords and Tenants as separate customer groups. Landlords benefit from Tenant screening information to assist in their independent tenant selection decisions. Tenants benefit from identity verification to build trust and credibility with Landlords.
A-du does not make tenant selection recommendations or decisions. Landlords independently evaluate verification results and make all tenant selection decisions using their own judgment and criteria. A-du does not advise Landlords whether to accept or reject any Tenant or Booking Request.
5.5 Fair Housing Compliance and Non-Discrimination
All Members must comply with fair housing laws including the federal Fair Housing Act, California Fair Employment and Housing Act, and all applicable local ordinances. Landlords may not discriminate against Tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, familial status, marital status, disability, genetic information, source of income, or other protected characteristics.
Landlords must base tenant selection decisions on legitimate, non-discriminatory criteria such as ability to pay rent, rental history, credit history, and criminal background relevant to tenancy. A-du provides verification information as a neutral tool; Landlords are solely responsible for using this information in compliance with fair housing laws.
6. Listing Requirements and Standards
6.1 Landlord Control Over Listings
Landlords create, control, and are solely responsible for all Listing content, pricing, availability, house rules, rental terms, and policies.
A-du provides tools, templates, and prompts to assist Landlords in creating Listings, but A-du does not create, modify, or control Listing content. Landlords independently decide what information to include, what photos to post, what prices to charge, what rules to establish, and what terms to offer. Landlords may edit, update, or remove their Listings at any time.
Landlords are the authors and publishers of their Listings. Landlords are solely responsible for ensuring that all Listing information is accurate, complete, current, and complies with all applicable laws and these Terms.
6.2 Required Listing Information
Landlords must provide the following minimum information in all Listings:
Property Details:
- • Accurate property address within one of A-du's supported markets, provided to A-du (the public sees an approximate area only; see Section 6.5)
- • Property type (apartment, house, room, etc.)
- • Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- • Square footage (approximate)
- • Furnishing status (furnished/unfurnished)
- • Amenities included
- • Parking availability and type
- • Pet policy
Rental Terms:
- • Monthly rent amount
- • Security deposit amount (for 62+ day rentals)
- • Minimum rental duration (31+ days)
- • Maximum rental duration (if any)
- • Utilities included/excluded
- • Move-in costs and fees
- • House rules and restrictions
- • Cancellation policy
6.3 Listing Accuracy and Honesty Requirements
Landlords must provide accurate, honest, and complete information in all Listings. You may not:
- • Post false, misleading, or deceptive information
- • Use photos that do not accurately represent the Property
- • Misrepresent property location, size, amenities, or condition
- • Omit material defects, hazards, or property conditions
- • Advertise properties you do not have legal right to rent
- • Conceal rent control status or other legal restrictions
- • Make false claims about property features or neighborhood
6.4 Fair Housing Compliance in Listings
All Listings must comply with fair housing laws. Landlords may not include language in Listings that discriminates based on protected characteristics or expresses preferences or limitations based on protected characteristics.
Acceptable tenant criteria may include: income requirements (e.g., "3x monthly rent income required"), credit score minimums, rental history requirements, no smoking policies, and other legitimate, non-discriminatory business criteria. Landlords are responsible for ensuring their tenant selection criteria comply with all fair housing laws.
6.5 Location Privacy and Staged Disclosure
6.5.1 What the public sees. A-du displays each Listing's city, ZIP code, and an approximate map area (a circle about one mile across that contains the Property) to the public. The exact street address, unit designator, precise map location, and building permit number are not published. How a Listing's location is shown is a setting of the Landlord's Listing, which A-du applies.
6.5.2 Requests and automatic disclosure. A signed-in Member with a verified email address may request a Listing's exact location. The Landlord may approve or decline the request, or may choose to share the location automatically with Members who have verified their email address. The exact location is also disclosed automatically when the Landlord accepts a tour, requests tenant screening for the Member, confirms a reservation, or the Member accepts the Landlord's invitation, and it is always disclosed before a lease is signed or any screening fee is charged. A request that is not answered within 72 hours expires; the Member may ask again. A declined request stands for 30 days.
6.5.3 Fair housing in location requests. Landlords must apply the same criteria to every location request. A decline must use one of the reasons A-du provides and may not be based on any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local fair housing law, including source of income. A Landlord may not decline a request for a reasonable accommodation. A-du records requests and decisions, may review them for fair housing compliance, may disclose the location to a requester when it determines a decline was improper, and may restrict or remove a Landlord's use of this feature.
6.5.4 Limited profiles before a lease. Before a lease is signed, Landlords see a limited profile of a requesting or applying Member: first name and last initial, verification status, and the Member's answers about the rental. The full profile is shown once a lease is signed.
6.5.5 Use of a disclosed location. A Member who receives a Listing's exact location may use it only to evaluate, tour, apply for, or rent that Listing, and may not publish, share, sell, or otherwise disclose it.
6.5.6 Limits. A property's address may be discoverable from public records and other sources outside A-du. A-du limits what it publishes and does not guarantee that a Property's location cannot be found by other means.
7. Booking Process and Lease Agreements
7.1 How Booking Requests Work
Tenants may submit Booking Requests to Landlords for Properties listed on the A-du Platform. A Booking Request is an offer by the Tenant to enter into a rental agreement on the specified terms.
Critical: Direct Contract Formation
When a Landlord accepts a Booking Request, a binding Rental Agreement is formed directly and exclusively between the Landlord and Tenant. A-du is not and does not become a party to this Rental Agreement.
The Rental Agreement is a contract between Landlord and Tenant, not between either party and A-du. Landlords and Tenants are solely responsible for fulfilling all obligations under their Rental Agreements.
7.2 Landlord Discretion in Accepting or Rejecting Requests
Landlords have complete discretion to accept or reject any Booking Request for any reason that does not violate fair housing laws.
A-du does not make recommendations about which Tenants Landlords should accept or reject. A-du does not advocate for, represent, or favor any party. Landlords make all tenant selection decisions independently.
7.3 Booking Confirmation and Payment
For Reservations of 61 Days or Less:
Tenant pays the full reservation amount (total rent for entire stay + Platform Services Fee) upfront at booking confirmation. First month's rent is disbursed to Landlord immediately. Remaining rent is held and disbursed monthly.
For Reservations of 62 Days or Longer:
Tenant pays Security Deposit + First Month's Rent + Platform Services Fees at booking confirmation. Security Deposit is deposited immediately and directly into Landlord's Stripe Connected Account. Subsequent monthly rent payments are automatically charged and disbursed monthly.
7.4 Security Deposits: Landlord Control and Obligations
Critical: Landlord Security Deposit Responsibilities
Landlords are solely responsible for handling Security Deposits in compliance with California Civil Code § 1950.5 as amended by AB 12 (effective July 1, 2024), including the AB 12 maximum limits (one month's rent for all tenancies, with a narrow small-landlord exception of up to two months' rent for natural-person landlords — or LLCs composed solely of natural persons — who own no more than two residential rental properties totaling no more than four dwelling units; the small-landlord exception does not apply to service member tenants under Civil Code § 400, and the prior three-month cap for furnished units has been eliminated), itemized statements within 21 days, and permissible deductions.
A-du has no involvement in Security Deposit returns, disputes, or compliance. Security Deposit returns are handled directly between Landlord and Tenant outside the A-du Platform.
8. Payment Processing and Platform Services Fees
8.1 Dual-Customer Fee Structure Overview
A-du charges a Platform Services Fee to Tenants for access to the platform's technology services. There is no Platform Services Fee for Landlords at this time.
Platform Services Fee Structure
Landlord: No Platform Services Fee
There is no Platform Services Fee for Landlords at this time. Landlords receive 100% of the agreed rental amount, less any applicable Stripe payment processing fees.
Services Provided at No Charge:
- • Listing tools and management
- • Tenant screening access
- • Payment collection via Stripe
- • Lease templates and documents
- • Maintenance management system
- • Analytics and reporting
Tenant: Platform Services Fee
3% for ACH bank transfers, or 6.25% for card payments. Charged on the rental amount. Paid at booking confirmation and with each recurring payment.
Services Provided:
- • Property search and filtering
- • Identity verification
- • Application system
- • Secure payment processing
- • Lease documentation access
- • Maintenance request system
Platform Services Fees are compensation for technology services and software infrastructure. Platform Services Fees are NOT commissions, brokerage fees, or compensation for agency services.
8.2 Payment Processing via Stripe
All payments are processed through Stripe, Inc. Landlords must create Stripe Connected Accounts. Rent payments are deposited into Landlord's Stripe account and can be transferred to their bank account.
8.3 A-du as Software Platform; Stripe as Payment Facilitator
No Agency, Brokerage, or Fiduciary Relationship with A-du
A-du, LLC operates a software platform. A-du, LLC does not hold, receive, or disburse rental funds and does not act as the Landlord's or the Tenant's agent, broker, collection agent, escrow holder, money transmitter, or fiduciary. All money movement on the A-du Platform is conducted by Stripe, Inc., a licensed third-party payment facilitator, under Stripe's own agreements with each Landlord (the Stripe Connected Account Agreement) and each Tenant (Stripe's terms for payers).
How the Payment Flow Actually Works:
- • Stripe debits the Tenant's payment method and settles rental funds directly into the Landlord's Stripe Connected Account.
- • On the same transaction, Stripe remits A-du's Platform Services Fee to A-du through Stripe's application-fee mechanism.
- • Tenant's payment obligation under the Rental Agreement is satisfied when Stripe successfully settles the applicable rental payment to the Landlord's Stripe Connected Account for that period. A reversed, refunded, or charged-back settlement does not satisfy that obligation.
- • At no point does A-du, LLC take custody of Tenant or Landlord funds or operate a trust, escrow, or pooled client-fund account.
What A-du Is NOT:
- • A California real estate broker, salesperson, property manager, or rental agent
- • A payment collection agent, limited collection agent, escrow holder, or money transmitter
- • A party to any Rental Agreement between Landlord and Tenant
- • Responsible for collecting delinquent rent, enforcing late fees, or taking collection actions
- • Responsible for the Landlord's acts, omissions, lease enforcement, or property management
Stripe is the regulated entity responsible for payment processing and money movement on the A-du Platform. A-du's role is limited to software: orchestrating payment instructions through Stripe's API and providing the user interface through which Members interact with those instructions.
8.4 Platform Services Fees Are Not Commissions
Platform Services Fees are compensation for technology infrastructure and platform access provided to both customer groups. Platform Services Fees are NOT brokerage commissions, compensation for representing parties' interests, or compensation for property management services.
The dual-sided fee structure reinforces that A-du serves both customer groups independently rather than representing either party's interests.
9. Member Conduct and Community Standards
A-du maintains community standards to ensure safe, respectful, and lawful use of the platform. All Members must comply with these standards and applicable laws.
Prohibited Activities
Members may not:
- • Discriminate against anyone based on protected characteristics
- • Post false, misleading, or fraudulent listings or information
- • Engage in harassment, threats, or abusive behavior
- • List or rent properties for illegal purposes
- • Attempt to circumvent platform fees or payment systems
- • Create fake accounts, reviews, or manipulate ratings
- • Spam, phish, or send unsolicited commercial messages
- • Violate intellectual property rights
- • Interfere with platform operations or security
- • Scrape, harvest, or use automated means to collect Listing locations or Member information
- • Publish, share, sell, or misuse a Listing's exact location obtained through A-du (see Section 6.5.5)
- • Request a Listing's exact location for any purpose other than genuinely considering renting it
- • Violate any applicable laws or regulations
Violations may result in content removal, account suspension, account termination, and referral to law enforcement. Members should report violations through the platform's reporting tools.
10. Platform Responsibilities and Limitations
Platform Provided "As Is" Without Warranties
THE A-DU PLATFORM AND ALL CONTENT, SERVICES, AND FEATURES ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. A-du disclaims all warranties including:
- • Implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement
- • Warranties that the platform will be uninterrupted, secure, or error-free
- • Warranties regarding accuracy or reliability of content
- • Warranties regarding Member conduct or Property quality
Limitation of Liability
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, A-DU SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, OR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS, REVENUE, DATA, OR USE.
A-du's total liability shall not exceed the greater of (a) Platform Services Fees paid by you in the 12 months preceding the claim, or (b) $500.
Members assume all risks associated with rental transactions, interactions with other Members, and Property conditions. A-du strongly recommends obtaining appropriate insurance coverage.
11. Dispute Resolution
11.1 Types of Disputes
Platform Disputes
Disputes between Members and A-du regarding platform access, account actions, fees, or Terms interpretation. Subject to binding arbitration under Section 16.
Landlord-Tenant Disputes
Disputes between Landlords and Tenants regarding rental agreements, property conditions, or security deposits. A-du is not a party to these disputes and cannot resolve them.
11.2 Landlord-Tenant Dispute Resolution
For disputes between Landlords and Tenants, A-du may provide messaging platform and information about mediation resources, but A-du does not mediate, arbitrate, or adjudicate landlord-tenant disputes.
Members should seek resolution through direct negotiation, mediation services, small claims court, or legal consultation as appropriate.
12. Privacy and Data Protection
A-du collects, uses, and protects Member information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference. By using the A-du Platform, you consent to our data practices as described in the Privacy Policy.
California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)
California residents have specific rights regarding their personal information under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), including rights to know, delete, correct, and opt-out of sale/sharing of personal information. For complete details and to exercise these rights, please review our Privacy Policy or contact legal@a-du.homes.
13. Compliance with Laws
Member Compliance Obligations
Landlords and Tenants are solely responsible for understanding and complying with all applicable laws. This includes but is not limited to:
Landlord Obligations:
- • Fair housing laws
- • Landlord-tenant laws and rent control
- • Property licensing and permitting
- • Building codes and habitability
- • Tax reporting and payment
- • Insurance requirements
- • HOA rules and restrictions
Tenant Obligations:
- • Lease agreement compliance
- • Rent payment obligations
- • Property care and maintenance
- • Noise ordinances
- • Subletting restrictions
- • Occupancy limits
- • Insurance recommendations
A-du does not verify legal compliance and assumes no responsibility for Members' compliance or non-compliance. Information provided by A-du is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Members should consult qualified professionals regarding their obligations.
14. Termination and Account Suspension
A-du may suspend or terminate Member accounts at any time for violations of these Terms, community standards, applicable laws, or for any other reason at A-du's discretion. Grounds include:
- • Violations of Terms or policies
- • Fraudulent or deceptive conduct
- • Discrimination or fair housing violations
- • Payment failures or fraud
- • Threats, harassment, or unsafe behavior
- • Criminal activity or law violations
- • Excessive disputes or complaints
- • Attempting to circumvent platform systems
Effect of Termination: Upon termination, you lose platform access. Existing confirmed bookings may proceed or be cancelled depending on circumstances. Termination does not relieve obligations under existing Rental Agreements or payment obligations.
Members may terminate accounts at any time by contacting A-du support, subject to fulfillment of outstanding obligations.
15. Build Marketplace and Design Services
The A-du Build Marketplace is a platform feature where licensed design professionals ("Vendors") list pre-approved ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) designs and offer permitting services to landlords within A-du's supported markets (currently Los Angeles County, San Diego County and San Francisco, California, and New York City, New York).
15.1 Vendor Qualifications
Licensed Professional Requirement
All vendors offering permitting services on the A-du Build Marketplace must:
- • Hold a valid California Architect or Engineer license
- • Maintain professional liability insurance with minimum $1,000,000 coverage
- • Name A-du as additional insured on general liability policies
- • Display license numbers on all listings and documents
- • Agree to stamp and sign all permit-ready construction documents
Vendors are independent contractors, not employees or agents of A-du. Vendors maintain exclusive control over their design work, pricing, permitting services, and client relationships.
15.2 Pre-Approved Designs
Designs marked as "Pre-Approved" have been approved by the indicated jurisdictions as part of their standard plan programs. Pre-approval:
- • Applies to the conceptual design only
- • Does not guarantee approval of site-specific plans
- • May be revoked by jurisdictions at any time
- • Still requires site-specific modifications and permit review
Pre-approved designs typically receive permits faster than custom designs, but landlords remain responsible for all site-specific requirements and final permit approval.
15.3 A-du's Limited Role
A-du provides:
- • Technology platform for design discovery and transactions between homeowners and Vendors
- • Payment-orchestration software (Stripe is the payment facilitator as described in Section 8.3)
- • A marketplace listing format that allows a Vendor, who is a licensed design professional, to offer a preliminary feasibility / "test fit" analysis of a homeowner's lot as part of that Vendor's services
- • Administrative project coordination
- • Document storage and template generation tools
A-du does NOT:
- • Perform, supervise, stamp, seal, or review architectural, engineering, or test-fit work. All such work is performed by the licensed design professional (the Vendor) retained by the homeowner
- • Prepare or review construction documents
- • Supervise or guarantee Vendor work product
- • Act as the homeowner's or the Vendor's agent, broker, or representative
- • Assume responsibility for design errors, plan defects, or permit denial
15.4 Test Fit Analysis Disclaimer
Preliminary Analysis by the Vendor, Not by A-du
When a Vendor offers a "test fit" or preliminary feasibility analysis through the A-du Build Marketplace, that analysis is performed by the Vendor — a licensed design professional retained by the homeowner and licensed in the jurisdiction where the Property is located — under the Vendor's own license, professional-liability insurance, and standard of care. A-du does not perform test fits, does not supervise or review them, and does not employ the design professionals that do. The analysis:
- • Is a preliminary, informational feasibility study by the Vendor
- • Is NOT a substitute for professional surveying, geotechnical investigation, or comprehensive site analysis
- • Does NOT verify utility locations, easements, soils, or site conditions
- • Does NOT constitute preparation of construction documents
- • Does NOT create a design-professional-client relationship between the homeowner and A-du; any professional relationship runs between the homeowner and the Vendor under the Vendor's own engagement terms
Vendors or landlords remain solely responsible for all permit-ready construction documents, site-specific modifications, and compliance with applicable codes. Landlord should verify all requirements with local jurisdiction and retain licensed professionals for final design and engineering.
15.5 Vendor Services and Liability
Vendors are independent contractors responsible for:
- • All design work and construction documents
- • Site-specific plan modifications
- • Stamp and signature on permit documents
- • Compliance with building codes and regulations
- • Professional liability for design errors or omissions
- • Communication with landlords and jurisdictions
- • Coordination with building departments
A-du is not liable for vendor services, delays, errors, or failure to obtain permits. Landlords enter into direct agreements with vendors for design and permitting services.
15.6 Platform Fees
A-du charges vendors a platform fee for marketplace infrastructure, including payment processing, document storage, project management tools, and customer support. This fee applies to transactions processed through the platform regardless of project outcome.
Platform fees are compensation for technology services, not brokerage commissions or agency fees. Vendors agree to platform fee structure in their Vendor Agreement.
15.7 Build Concierge Service
A-du may offer contractor matching services ("Build Concierge") to landlords with permitted plans. This service includes:
- • Curating 3-5 qualified contractors from our Preferred Network
- • Verifying contractor licenses and insurance
- • Coordinating bid distribution and collection
- • Providing bid comparison assistance
Landlords understand:
- • Contractors are independent businesses, not A-du employees or agents
- • Landlord enters into direct contract with selected contractor
- • A-du does not supervise, guarantee, or warrant contractor work
- • A-du is not liable for construction defects, delays, or cost overruns
- • Contractors have no obligation to submit bids
Critical Build Marketplace Disclaimers
Landlords assume all risks associated with design purchases, permitting services, and construction projects. A-du strongly recommends:
- • Independently verifying vendor credentials and references
- • Reviewing all design documents with qualified professionals
- • Obtaining appropriate insurance coverage
- • Consulting with legal and financial advisors
- • Verifying all local zoning and permitting requirements
Build projects involve significant financial investment and legal obligations. Make informed decisions and seek professional guidance throughout the process.
15.8 Municipality-Sourced Listings (Public Plan Directory)
15.8.0 Nature of the Public Plan Directory
A-du Build operates a free, non-commercial public directory of pre-approved accessory dwelling unit plans that have been submitted by licensed design professionals to municipal pre-approval programs, including but not limited to the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) Standard Plan Program and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works Pre-Approved ADU Standard Plans Program (the “Public Plan Directory”). The purpose of the Directory is to help Los Angeles County property owners discover pre-approved plans available for their jurisdiction and to connect them with the design professionals who own those plans, consistent with each jurisdiction’s public guidance directing interested property owners to contact plan owners directly.
No Fees, No Advertising, No Monetization of Unclaimed Listings
A-du does not charge access fees for the Public Plan Directory, does not display advertising against Directory Listings, and does not receive any financial benefit attributable to any unclaimed Directory Listing. Revenue is earned solely from claimed listings, and only after the associated design professional has voluntarily registered with A-du, completed identity verification through our payment processor (Stripe, Inc.), and affirmatively claimed ownership of the listing. Design professionals retain 100% of any transaction revenue, less standard payment processing fees and the disclosed A-du platform service fee on claimed listings.
Claim or Remove — Free and Immediate
Any design professional whose pre-approved plan appears in the Public Plan Directory may, at any time and at no cost: (a) verify their identity and claim the listing to customize, update, or monetize it through A-du; or (b) request removal of the listing, with no DMCA notice required. Verified removal requests submitted via the “Request Takedown” button on the listing, or to build@a-du.homes, will be honored within three (3) business days, and the associated plan identifier will be added to a permanent no-republish list so that the plan is not re-ingested by A-du’s automated sourcing process. Copyright owners who prefer the formal statutory procedure under 17 U.S.C. § 512(c) may instead follow § 15.8.5 below.
15.8.1 Overview
A-du displays a curated directory of pre-approved ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) plans that are automatically sourced from publicly available municipal pre-approved ADU plan databases operated by local governments (such as the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety or the New York City Department of Buildings). These "Municipality-Sourced Listings" are unclaimed listings in a directory format.
Key Point: A-du does not own, design, or claim intellectual property rights over any municipality-sourced plans. The purpose of displaying these listings is to provide a centralized, searchable directory of publicly available pre-approved plans as a service to homeowners and design professionals.
15.8.2 What A-du Displays
A-du displays the following information about municipality-sourced plans:
- Factual Metadata: Plan IDs, plan names, architect/firm names, unit dimensions, approval status, and municipal government source URLs
- Promotional Materials: Renderings and images that the design architect voluntarily published on the municipal government website for public viewing. These are marketing materials created for public promotion, not actual construction plan sets (which are the purchasable product)
- Contact Information: Publicly listed architect contact information as provided in the municipal government database
Clarification: Full construction document sets (technical plans, specifications, engineering calculations) are never displayed on A-du. These proprietary documents are only available for purchase directly from the designer after claiming the listing.
15.8.3 Limitations
- No Purchase Until Claimed: Homes cannot purchase plans through A-du until the plan's designer has claimed the listing and verified professional credentials
- No Endorsement: A-du does not endorse, recommend, or warrant the accuracy, suitability, or regulatory approval status of any municipality-sourced listing
- No Liability for Accuracy: A-du makes no representations regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of information sourced from municipal databases. Municipal authorities are the authoritative sources for all plan information
15.8.4 Vendor Claim Process
Architects and design professionals may claim ownership of a municipality-sourced listing to enable commercial transactions and gain editing privileges. The claim process follows a four-step workflow:
- Step 1 – Register as Vendor: Complete A-du vendor registration and onboarding
- Step 2 – Navigate to Vendor Dashboard: Access the vendor dashboard and locate the unclaimed municipality-sourced listing
- Step 3 – Submit Claim Request: Submit proof of professional license verification (architect license, business registration, or equivalent credentials)
- Step 4 – Admin Review and Approval: A-du admin reviews claim documentation and confirms professional credentials match the municipality records
- Step 5 – Grant of Express IP License: As a condition of claim approval, the claiming Vendor expressly grants A-du, LLC a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, sublicensable license to host, display, reproduce, and distribute the claimed listing's promotional materials (renderings, images, plan names, factual metadata, and Vendor-supplied descriptive content) on and through the A-du Platform for the purpose of marketing the Vendor's plans and services to users of the A-du Platform. The license continues for as long as the listing remains active on the Platform and survives for archival and legal-compliance purposes after removal. The Vendor represents and warrants that the Vendor owns, or has obtained all rights necessary to license, the materials submitted. This express grant supplements — and does not replace — the separate user-content license in Section 13, and its acceptance is logged at the time of claim approval as a click-through acknowledgment.
Upon approval, vendors gain full edit access to the listing and may offer plans for purchase through the A-du Platform.
15.8.5 DMCA Takedown Procedure and Designated Agent (17 U.S.C. § 512(c))
A-du, LLC hosts user-submitted content (including Build Marketplace plan listings and municipality-sourced listings) subject to the safe-harbor provisions of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, 17 U.S.C. § 512(c). A-du responds to properly submitted takedown notices from copyright owners (or their authorized agents) and implements a Repeat Infringer Policy as described below.
A. Contents of a DMCA Takedown Notice (17 U.S.C. § 512(c)(3))
To be effective, a takedown notice must be a written communication, signed electronically or physically by the copyright owner or a person authorized to act on the owner's behalf, that includes each of the following:
- 1. Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed (or, if multiple works, a representative list);
- 2. Identification of the allegedly infringing material (including the URL or sufficient information to enable A-du to locate it on the Platform);
- 3. The submitting party's contact information (name, address, telephone, email);
- 4. A statement that the submitting party has a good-faith belief that the use complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law;
- 5. A statement, under penalty of perjury, that the information in the notice is accurate and that the submitting party is authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner; and
- 6. A physical or electronic signature of the copyright owner or authorized representative.
B. Where to Send a Takedown Notice — Designated Agent
A-du, LLC has designated the following agent to receive notifications of claimed infringement under 17 U.S.C. § 512(c)(2). The designation is on file with the U.S. Copyright Office and searchable at https://dmca.copyright.gov.
Designated DMCA Agent: Christopher Frederick Koss
USCO Registration Number: DMCA-1071739
Mailing Address: 453 S Spring St. Ste. 400 #100, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Telephone: (325) 518-8918
Email: dmca@a-du.homes
Web form: /legal/dmca.html
The authoritative agent record is on file with the U.S. Copyright Office and searchable at https://dmca.copyright.gov under registration number DMCA-1071739. Questions regarding intellectual property on the Build Marketplace may also be directed to build@a-du.homes; copyright claims should use the DMCA channels above.
C. A-du's Response to a Valid Takedown Notice
- 1. Upon receipt of a notice that substantially complies with 17 U.S.C. § 512(c)(3), A-du will expeditiously remove or disable access to the identified material.
- 2. A-du will take reasonable steps to promptly notify the Vendor or user who posted the material that the material has been removed or disabled.
- 3. If the Vendor or user submits a counter-notice meeting the requirements of 17 U.S.C. § 512(g)(3) (including consent to federal court jurisdiction and a statement under penalty of perjury that the material was removed as a result of mistake or misidentification), A-du may restore the material between 10 and 14 business days after receiving the counter-notice unless the original complainant files suit.
- 4. A-du will retain records of notices, counter-notices, and takedown decisions as required to preserve its safe-harbor eligibility.
D. Repeat Infringer Policy
Consistent with 17 U.S.C. § 512(i), A-du terminates, in appropriate circumstances, the accounts of users, Vendors, or subscribers who are repeat infringers. A-du's Repeat Infringer Policy is published at /legal/Repeat-Infringer-Policy.html and is incorporated into these Terms by reference.
E. Non-DMCA Removal Requests
Any party may also request removal of a municipality-sourced listing for non-copyright reasons (e.g., factual correction, municipal source withdrawal) by emailing build@a-du.homes or by using the "Request Removal" link displayed on any municipality-sourced listing page. Non-DMCA removals are handled editorially by A-du and are not governed by §§ 15.8.5(A)–(D) above. Listings removed under this paragraph will not be re-listed without explicit written authorization.
Caution — false notices. Under 17 U.S.C. § 512(f), any party who knowingly materially misrepresents that material is infringing (or was removed or disabled by mistake) may be liable to the other party and to A-du for damages and attorney's fees.
15.8.6 Intellectual Property
A-du respects architect and design firm intellectual property rights.
- Public Information: Factual information (plan IDs, dimensions, approval status) sourced from publicly available municipal government databases is not subject to copyright protection under Feist v. Rural Telephone Service Co., Inc., 499 U.S. 340 (1991)
- Promotional Images Attribution: Renderings and promotional images displayed on A-du are attributed to the originating municipal source and the design architect
- Construction Documents: Full construction document sets (technical plans, specifications, engineering data) are never displayed or distributed by A-du without explicit authorization. These are proprietary deliverables exclusively offered by the designer
- Immediate Takedown: Upon receiving a valid takedown request, all images, descriptions, and data related to the listed plan are immediately removed from the A-du Platform
15.8.7 Municipality-Sourced Listings Disclaimers
AS-IS AND AS-AVAILABLE DISCLAIMER:
Municipality-sourced listing information is provided "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE." A-du makes no warranties, express or implied, regarding:
- • Accuracy or completeness of plan information or metadata
- • Suitability of plans for any particular project or jurisdiction
- • Regulatory approval status or applicability of plans to your location
- • Current validity of plans or compliance with local building codes
- • Availability or legitimacy of design professionals listed
A-du is not a party to any transaction between homeowners and design professionals. Homeowners assume full responsibility for independently verifying all plan information with the municipal authority and consulting with qualified professionals before purchasing or implementing any plan.
16. Services Marketplace
The Services Marketplace is an optional informational directory feature where Service Providers (cleaning, handyman, landscaping services, etc.) may list contact information and service descriptions. The Services Marketplace is purely informational.
Critical Services Marketplace Disclaimers
A-du does NOT:
- • Facilitate, process, or participate in any service transactions
- • Charge fees or collect payments related to service transactions
- • Verify credentials, licenses, or qualifications of Service Providers
- • Conduct background checks on Service Providers
- • Endorse, recommend, or warrant any Service Provider
- • Assume any liability for service quality, safety, or performance
- • Act as agent, broker, or intermediary for service transactions
- • Monitor or oversee service transactions
All service transactions occur directly between Landlords (or Tenants) and Service Providers, completely outside the A-du Platform. Members assume all risks and should conduct appropriate due diligence, verify licenses and insurance, check references, and obtain written contracts.
The Services Marketplace is analogous to a bulletin board or directory listing. A-du's role is strictly limited to providing space for Service Providers to post contact information. A-du earns no revenue from service transactions and has no involvement in or knowledge of any services performed.
17. Legal Terms
17.1 Binding Arbitration and Class Action Waiver
PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY. IT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS.
You and A-du agree that any dispute, claim, or controversy between you and A-du arising out of or relating to these Terms or use of the A-du Platform (excluding landlord-tenant disputes between Members) shall be resolved through binding individual arbitration rather than in court.
Arbitration shall be administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) under its Consumer Arbitration Rules. The arbitration shall take place in Los Angeles County, California, unless otherwise agreed. You and A-du each agree to waive the right to a trial by jury and to participate in class actions, class arbitrations, or other representative proceedings.
Exception: Either party may bring an individual action in small claims court for disputes within that court's jurisdiction. Either party may also seek injunctive relief in court for violations of intellectual property rights.
17.2 Governing Law
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to conflicts of law principles. Exclusive venue for any disputes not subject to arbitration shall be the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California.
17.3 No Agency
Nothing in these Terms creates any agency, partnership, joint venture, employment, broker-principal, fiduciary, or franchisee-franchisor relationship between A-du, LLC and any Member. A-du, LLC does not act as a payment collection agent, escrow holder, or money transmitter for any Member; Stripe, Inc. is the payment facilitator for all transactions on the A-du Platform, as described in Section 8.3.
17.4 Indemnification
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless A-du, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from: (a) your use of the A-du Platform; (b) your violation of these Terms; (c) your violation of any rights of another; (d) your Listings, Content, or rental activities; (e) your tax obligations; or (f) your rental transactions with other Members.
17.5 Modifications to Terms
A-du may modify these Terms at any time by posting revised Terms on the platform. Material changes will be communicated to Members via email or platform notification. Continued use of the platform after changes become effective constitutes acceptance of modified Terms. If you do not agree to modified Terms, you must stop using the platform and may terminate your account.
17.6 Severability
If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. Invalid provisions shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make them valid and enforceable while preserving their intent.
17.7 Entire Agreement
These Terms, together with the Privacy Policy and all incorporated policies, constitute the entire agreement between you and A-du regarding use of the A-du Platform and supersede all prior agreements, understandings, and communications.
17.8 Contact Information
For questions about these Terms, contact A-du at:
A-du, LLC
Email: legal@a-du.homes
Address: [Your Business Address], Los Angeles, CA
18. Tenant Screening Services
18.1 Screening Process
A-du provides tools that enable Landlords to request tenant screening reports from third-party consumer reporting agencies. By authorizing a screening request, you:
- Authorize the Landlord and A-du to obtain consumer reports about you
- Acknowledge receipt of the FCRA Pre-Authorization Disclosure
- Acknowledge receipt of the Summary of Your Rights Under the FCRA
- For California residents: Acknowledge the ICRAA notice
- Understand that, where a tenant-paid screening fee applies, California Civil Code § 1950.6(f) (AB 2493) requires refund of any portion not actually spent on your consumer report, and that A-du's Portable Screening Profile flow is landlord-funded and carries no tenant charge
All screening-related legal documents are available at: /legal
18.2 Screening Fees
Where a Landlord elects to charge a Tenant a screening fee under California Civil Code § 1950.6, the fee is limited to the Landlord's actual out-of-pocket costs for obtaining a consumer report about that applicant and may not exceed the CPI-adjusted statutory cap published by the California Apartment Association (the 2026 cap is $65.86; A-du updates this figure when the following year's cap is published). If the Landlord does not actually obtain a consumer report, or the amount charged exceeds actual out-of-pocket costs, the Tenant is entitled to a refund under § 1950.6(f).
Under A-du's Portable Screening Profile flow (§ 18.3 below), the Landlord — not the Tenant — funds the underlying consumer report, and no screening fee is charged to the Tenant.
18.3 Portable Screening Profiles
A-du offers a Portable Screening Profile that a Tenant may reuse across multiple A-du Landlords during its 30-day validity period. On the A-du Platform, Landlords — not Tenants — pay A-du to commission the underlying consumer report.
- Cost to the Tenant: No charge to the Tenant to create, maintain, or share a Portable Screening Profile
- Valid for: 30 days from the date the consumer report is prepared
- Can be shared with: Unlimited Landlords on the A-du Platform within the validity window
- Under AB 2493, a Landlord who requires a Portable Screening Profile must accept a profile less than 30 days old without charging the Tenant an additional screening fee for the same property
18.4 A-du's Role in Screening
A-du provides technology tools for screening but does not make housing decisions.
Landlords are solely responsible for:
- Setting tenant selection criteria
- Reviewing screening reports
- Making approval/denial decisions
- Complying with FCRA adverse action requirements
- Complying with fair housing laws
18.5 Consumer Reporting Agencies
A-du may obtain consumer reports from the following consumer reporting agencies:
The consumer reporting agency does not make approval or denial decisions. The agency only provides information to Landlords, who make the final decision.
18.6 Your Rights Under FCRA
You have specific rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act:
- The right to receive a Summary of Your Rights Under the FCRA
- The right to receive a copy of any consumer report obtained about you
- The right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information
- The right to receive written notice if denied based on a consumer report
- The right to a reasonable waiting period (5 business days) before final action
For more information: FCRA Summary of Rights (PDF)
18.7 Dispute Rights
If you believe information in a screening report is inaccurate, you have the right to:
- Dispute the information directly with the consumer reporting agency
- Request a copy of the report within 60 days at no charge
- Add a statement of dispute to your file
- Request reinvestigation of disputed information
To dispute information, contact the consumer reporting agency directly. A-du does not have the ability to modify or correct information in consumer reports.
18.8 California ICRAA Rights
California residents have additional rights under the Investigative Consumer Reporting Agencies Act (ICRAA):
- Right to request disclosure of the nature and scope of any investigation
- Right to receive a copy of any investigative consumer report within 3 business days
- Right to request names and addresses of all sources contacted
To request information, contact A-du Support at support@a-du.homes with subject line "ICRAA Report Request".
18.9 Fair Housing Compliance
A-du is committed to fair housing compliance.
All screening must comply with federal Fair Housing Act, California FEHA, and local fair housing laws. Landlords must:
- Apply tenant selection criteria consistently to all applicants
- Use individualized assessment for criminal background checks
- Accept all lawful sources of income (including Section 8 vouchers)
- Not discriminate based on protected characteristics
Learn more: Fair Housing Policy
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Last Updated: September 24, 2026
By using the A-du Platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service and all incorporated policies.