Privacy Policy
Smart Home Buddy ("we," "us," or "our") is a home automation consulting and setup service operated by Jake Hodges, serving Oklahoma City and the surrounding metro area. We are committed to protecting the privacy and security of the personal information entrusted to us by our clients. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and how we protect it.
1. Information We Collect
a) Information You Provide Directly
- Name, address, city, zip code
- Phone number and email address
- Description of services requested
- How you heard about us
- Smart home device details (brands, models, platforms)
- Login credentials for smart home platforms and devices (stored securely and only with your explicit consent — see Section 4)
b) Information Collected Automatically
- Basic website usage data (pages visited, time on site)
- Device type and browser information
- IP address
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your information solely to provide and improve our services:
- To contact you regarding your consultation request or service appointment
- To understand your smart home setup and provide accurate assistance
- To store your device and account information so we can service your home efficiently on future visits
- To send appointment reminders or follow-up communications
- To improve our services based on feedback
We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes — ever.
3. Payment Information
Online payments are processed through Stripe, a third-party payment processor. Smart Home Buddy does not store your credit card number, CVV, or full payment details on our systems. All payment data is encrypted and handled directly by Stripe in accordance with PCI-DSS compliance standards. By making a payment through our website, you agree to Stripe's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
4. Client Credential Storage
As part of our service, we may — with your explicit consent — store login credentials for your smart home platforms and devices (such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Ring, Rachio, etc.) in our secure client management system. This allows us to assist you efficiently during service visits without requiring you to locate passwords each time.
Important protections regarding your stored credentials:
- All credentials are encrypted at rest using industry-standard encryption (AES-256 or equivalent)
- Access is restricted exclusively to authorized Smart Home Buddy team members
- Credentials are never shared with any third party
- You may request deletion of your stored credentials at any time by contacting us
- Credentials are used solely to service your home automation systems
5. Data Security
We take reasonable and appropriate measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. These measures include:
- Encrypted storage of sensitive client data
- Password-protected access to our internal systems
- Role-based access controls limiting who can view sensitive data
- Secure, reputable third-party infrastructure providers
No method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. While we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your information, we cannot guarantee absolute security.
6. Data Retention
We retain your personal information for as long as you are an active client or as needed to provide services. You may request that we delete your information at any time. We will honor deletion requests within 30 days, except where retention is required by law.
7. Your Rights
- Access the personal information we hold about you
- Request correction of inaccurate information
- Request deletion of your information
- Withdraw consent for credential storage at any time
- Opt out of non-essential communications
To exercise any of these rights, contact us at: Jakeallenhodges@gmail.com
8. Children's Privacy
Our services are directed at homeowners and adults. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13. If you believe a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us and we will promptly delete it.
9. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will update the effective date at the top of this document. Continued use of our services after any changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated policy.
10. Contact Us
Smart Home Buddy
Jake Hodges, Owner
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Email: Jakeallenhodges@gmail.com