Effective Date: [2025/07/16]
These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern the provision of forensic fire investigation services (“Services”) by Hexagon Fire Investigation (“Hexagon”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) to the client (“Client” or “you”). By engaging our Services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.
1. Scope of Services
Hexagon provides professional forensic fire investigation services, including but not limited to on-site inspections, evidence collection, cause and origin determination, expert reports, and court testimony where applicable.
All Services will be rendered with due diligence and in accordance with industry standards, forensic principles, and applicable South African laws and regulations.
2. Client Responsibilities
- Clients must provide accurate, timely, and complete information relevant to the investigation.
- Clients are responsible for securing site access, permits, and any necessary safety clearances.
- Clients shall notify Hexagon of any third-party involvement, legal proceedings, or insurance requirements that may impact the scope or timeline of the investigation.
3. Fees and Payment
- Fees for Services will be outlined in a formal quotation or agreement and are subject to acceptance by the Client.
- A deposit or full payment may be required before work commences.
- Invoices are payable within 30 days of the invoice date unless otherwise agreed in writing.
- Late payments may be subject to interest charges of 2% per month on overdue balances.
4. Confidentiality
Hexagon respects the confidentiality of all client matters and will not disclose any information to third parties without the Client’s written consent, unless required by law or subpoena.
5. Intellectual Property
All reports, photographs, findings, and documents produced by Hexagon remain the intellectual property of Hexagon until full payment is received. Upon payment, the Client receives a non-exclusive right to use such materials for the intended legal or insurance purpose.
6. Limitation of Liability
Hexagon will not be liable for:
- Any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use or reliance on our findings.
- Delays or failures caused by circumstances beyond our control, including restricted access to sites or unavailable evidence.
- Misuse or misinterpretation of our reports by third parties.
Our total liability, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise, shall not exceed the fees paid for the specific Service rendered.
7. Warranties and Disclaimers
Hexagon does not guarantee the outcome of any investigation and provides findings based on the available evidence, scientific methodology, and professional judgment.
We do not warrant that our conclusions will always be accepted by courts, insurers, or other parties.
8. Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made in writing. The Client may be liable for any work already completed or costs incurred prior to cancellation.
9. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of South Africa.
10. Amendments
Hexagon reserves the right to amend these Terms at any time. Clients will be notified of material changes prior to engagement or continuation of Services.
11. Acceptance
By engaging Hexagon Fire Investigation for Services, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.