1. Overview

This Privacy Policy explains how The Understory App (“we,” “us,” or “our”), part of The Understory brand, collects, uses, and protects information when you use our web application (the “App”). We are committed to being transparent about our data practices.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide

When you use the App, you may provide:

• Email address — for beta access, notifications, or account-related communications
• Property address or location — entered by you to generate site analysis reports

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you use the App, certain information may be collected automatically:

• Browser type, device type, and general location (country/region) via standard web server logs
• Usage data such as pages visited and features used
• Data stored in your browser’s localStorage (address and location data between pages) — this data stays on your device and is not transmitted to our servers

2.3 Payment Information

Payments are processed by Stripe, Inc. We do not collect, store, or have access to your credit card number, bank account details, or other sensitive payment information. Stripe’s privacy policy governs the handling of your payment data and is available at stripe.com/privacy.

2.4 Third-Party APIs

To provide site analysis features, the App sends your entered address or location data to the following third-party services:

• Google Maps, Google Places, Google Solar API — address lookup and solar analysis
• Open-Meteo — weather and air quality data
• iNaturalist — native species data by location
• NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) — solar radiation data
• USDA / PHZM — plant hardiness zone data
• OpenStreetMap / Overpass API — geographic and infrastructure data
• HIFLD / ArcGIS — utility infrastructure data

Each of these services has its own privacy policy. We recommend reviewing their policies if you have concerns about how your location data is processed.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, operate, and improve the App
• Generate site analysis reports based on your entered location
• Communicate with you about your account, beta access, or updates
• Process payments through Stripe
• Comply with legal obligations

We do not sell your personal information to third parties.

4. Data Storage

The App is currently a static web application with no backend database. Your address and location data is stored temporarily in your browser’s localStorage to enable multi-step workflows. This data does not leave your device to our servers. Email addresses collected for beta access are stored securely and used only for the purposes described in this policy.

5. Cookies

Please see our Cookie Policy for details on how we and our third-party service providers use cookies and similar technologies.

6. Data Retention

We retain email addresses for as long as your account or beta access is active, or as needed to communicate with you. You may request deletion at any time. localStorage data is retained in your browser until you clear your browser data or we update the App.

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your information
• Opt out of non-essential communications

To exercise any of these rights, contact us at: privacy@theunderstory.com

8. Children’s Privacy

The App is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have inadvertently collected such information, please contact us and we will delete it promptly.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes by posting the new policy on this page with an updated effective date. Continued use of the App after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

10. Contact

For privacy-related questions or requests, contact us at: privacy@theunderstory.com