Terms of Service
These terms govern your access to and use of the NearLink platform. By creating an account, booking a stay, or listing a property, you agree to be legally bound by these rules.
1. Agreement to Terms
These Terms of Service constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("User", "Guest", or "Host") and NearLink Inc. ("we", "us"). You confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these Terms, our Privacy Policy, and our Trust & Safety policies.
Important: You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of legal majority in your jurisdiction) to use the Platform. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not use NearLink.
2. Definitions
3. Platform Overview & Role
NearLink is a technology platform that connects Hosts and Guests. It is important to understand our role:
- We do not own, lease, manage, or operate any properties.
- We are not a real estate broker, travel agency, or insurer.
- We act solely as an intermediary facilitating bookings and payments.
4. User Accounts
By creating an account, you agree that:
- All information provided is accurate and up to date.
- You are responsible for all activity under your account.
5. Verification & Eligibility
NearLink may require identity, phone, email, or property verification to maintain trust and safety.
We reserve the right to restrict or deny access if verification fails or if we detect abuse.
6. Bookings & Payments
6.1 Booking Process
A booking is confirmed only after successful payment and host acceptance (where applicable).
6.2 Payments
All payments are processed via secure third-party providers (including M-Pesa, Stripe, and Flutterwave). NearLink does not store full payment card details.
NearLink acts as the limited payment collection agent for the Host. Paying NearLink is considered the same as paying the Host directly.
6.3 Service Fees & Taxes
NearLink charges service fees to Guests and/or Hosts. Fees are disclosed before checkout and are generally non-refundable. Hosts are responsible for their own tax obligations.
7. Cancellations & Refunds
Cancellation policies are set by the Host. NearLink facilitates refunds according to these policies but may override them in exceptional circumstances (e.g., Force Majeure).
Flexible
Full refund 24h prior.
Moderate
Full refund 5 days prior.
Strict
50% refund up to 7 days prior.
8-9. User Obligations
Host Obligations
- Provide accurate listing info.
- Ensure properties are safe & clean.
- Comply with local zoning laws.
- Maintain insurance coverage.
Guest Obligations
- Respect host rules & property.
- Use listings for lawful purposes.
- Avoid unauthorized guests.
- Report damages immediately.
10. Property Damage & Disputes
Guests are responsible for damages caused during a stay. Hosts must provide evidence for claims.
12. Prohibited Activities
- Engaging in fraud, scams, or impersonation.
- Circumventing platform fees (booking off-platform).
- Using the Platform for illegal activities (e.g., drug manufacturing).
- Interfering with platform security or scraping data.
16-17. Disclaimers & Liability
The Platform is provided "as is". NearLink does not guarantee the accuracy of listings or quality of accommodations.
Limitation of Liability: To the maximum extent permitted by law, NearLink shall not be liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages. Our total liability shall not exceed the fees paid by you to NearLink in the six (6) months preceding the claim.
Questions about these Terms?
Our legal team is available to clarify any points.