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TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Introduction

These Terms & Conditions govern the provision of genealogical research services by Stories in the Branches, operated by Sharon Gwatkin.

By commissioning any services, you agree to be bound by the terms set out below.

2. Services Offered

2.1 Free Initial Consultation

A free 15-minute consultation is offered to discuss your research goals and assess the availability of relevant records.

This consultation is limited to general advice and feasibility assessment. No detailed research, document retrieval, or analysis will be conducted during this time.

2.2 Scope of Research

Research conducted by Stories in the Branches is primarily focused on United Kingdom records, including England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Research into emigration, immigration, and overseas records may also be undertaken where records are accessible and reliable sources are available. However, availability and depth of such records may vary significantly depending on the country and time period.

2.3 Starter Research Package

A fixed-fee Starter Research Package is available (see Services & Pricing), which includes:

  • Up to 5 hours of genealogical research

  • A summary report outlining findings

  • A basic family tree (where records allow)

  • Digital copies of records obtained (where permitted)

This package is intended as an introductory service. Further research may be commissioned upon completion.

Please note: External costs are not included in this package (see Section 5).

2.4 Quick Record Lookup Service

A Quick Record Lookup service is available (see Services & Pricing). This service includes:

  • A targeted search for a specific record (e.g. census entry, birth/marriage/death index, parish register)

This service is strictly limited to a single record search based on the information provided. It does not include extended research, multiple searches, or detailed analysis.

2.5 Additional Research Services

Additional research beyond the Starter Package is charged on an hourly or agreed fixed-fee basis. A time estimate will be provided in advance where possible.

3. Fees and Payment

  • All fees will be agreed prior to the commencement of work

  • Payment may be required in advance, particularly for fixed-fee services

  • For ongoing research, staged payments or deposits may be required

  • Final deliverables may be withheld until full payment is received

Invoices are payable within 7–14 days, unless otherwise agreed.

4. Time Limits and Work Approval

Research will be conducted within the agreed time limit (e.g. 5 hours for the Starter Package).

If additional time is required:

  • Work will pause at the agreed limit

  • Further research will only proceed with client approval

This ensures transparency and cost control.

5. Expenses and Additional Costs

All research fees are exclusive of external expenses. Clients are responsible for all additional costs incurred during research, including but not limited to:

  • Travel costs (charged at £0.45 per mile unless otherwise agreed)

  • Parking and public transport costs

  • Archive entry fees

  • Photocopies, scans, and digital images

  • Birth, marriage, and death certificates

  • Fees charged by third-party researchers or archivists

Where appropriate, advance payment for anticipated expenses may be required.

No single expense above an agreed threshold will be incurred without client consent.

6. Travel Policy

Where research requires travel to archives or record offices:

  • Travel time may be chargeable (if agreed in advance)

  • Mileage is charged at the standard rate stated above

  • Longer journeys or overnight stays will be discussed and approved in advance

7. No Guarantee of Results

Genealogical research is dependent on the survival, accessibility, and accuracy of historical records.

While every effort is made to locate relevant information, no guarantee can be made that records will be found.

Fees are charged for time spent, expertise applied, and resources consulted, regardless of the outcome.

8. Deliverables

Clients will receive:

  • A written report (where applicable)

  • Copies of relevant documents (subject to archive restrictions)

  • A family tree summary (where included in the service)

All deliverables are provided digitally unless otherwise agreed.

9. Cancellations and Refunds

  • Work may be cancelled by the client at any time

  • Fees for work already completed are non-refundable

  • Any expenses already incurred must be reimbursed

  • Fixed-fee services may be partially refundable at discretion, depending on work completed

10. Confidentiality and Data Protection

All client information will be handled in accordance with applicable UK data protection laws.

  • Personal data will be used solely for the purpose of conducting genealogical research

  • Information relating to living individuals will be treated as confidential

  • Data will not be shared with third parties without consent, unless required to fulfil the research request

11. Limitations of Liability

  • No liability is accepted for errors or omissions in historical records

  • Findings are based on the best available evidence at the time of research

  • Liability is limited to the total fees paid for the services provided

12. Communication

Clients will be kept informed of progress at appropriate stages.

Communication will typically be conducted via email unless otherwise agreed. Response times may vary depending on workload but are generally within 2–3 working days.

13. Acceptance of Terms

By commissioning services, making payment, or proceeding with a consultation, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms & Conditions.

14. Amendments

These Terms & Conditions may be updated from time to time. The version in effect at the time of booking will apply to your services.

15. Contact

All enquiries should be directed to:
Stories in the Branches
Contact: Sharon

Sharon@StoriesintheBranches.co.uk

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