Terms of Service
Last Updated: 28th of April 2026
1. Introduction
Welcome to Apaté ("Platform", "we", "us", or "our").
Apaté is a digital marketplace that connects property owners and managers ("Hosts") with individuals seeking short-term accommodation ("Guests").
By accessing or using the Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree, you must not use the Platform.
2. Eligibility
To use Apaté, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract under Nigerian law
- Provide accurate and complete information during registration
We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these requirements.
3. Nature of the Platform
Apaté:
- Does not own, manage, or control listed properties
- Acts solely as an intermediary platform between Hosts and Guests
All bookings constitute a direct contract between Host and Guest.
4. Account Registration
Users must:
- Create an account with valid information
- Maintain the confidentiality of login credentials
- Notify Apaté of any unauthorized use
You are responsible for all activities under your account.
5. Listings and Booking
5.1 Host Responsibilities
Hosts agree to:
- Provide accurate property descriptions and images
- Renew property pictures every 3 months
- Ensure the property is safe, habitable, and compliant with applicable laws
- Honour confirmed bookings
5.2 Guest Responsibilities
Guests agree to:
- Provide accurate booking information
- Respect house rules
- Avoid damage, illegal activity, or disturbance
6. Pricing and Payments
- All prices are listed in Nigerian Naira (₦)
- Apaté charges hosts a 12% commission and guests a 5% service fee per booking
- Payments are processed via third-party providers
Apaté is not responsible for bank charges, payment processing delays, or currency conversion issues.
7. Cancellations and Refunds
Cancellation policies may vary by listing. General rules:
- Guests may cancel subject to the Host's cancellation policy
- Refunds (if applicable) are processed within a reasonable timeframe
Apaté reserves the right to mediate disputes and issue refunds in cases of fraud, misrepresentation, or service failure.
8. Verification and Trust
Apaté may verify user identities, inspect properties, and assign "Verified" badges. However, verification is not a guarantee of safety or quality. Users remain responsible for their decisions.
9. Prohibited Activities
Users must not:
- Post false or misleading listings
- Engage in fraud or scams
- Use the Platform for illegal activities
- Circumvent the Platform (e.g., taking bookings off-platform)
- Damage property or violate house rules
Violation may result in immediate suspension, termination, or legal action.
10. Fees and Taxes
- Hosts are responsible for all applicable taxes (including VAT, income tax)
- Apaté may deduct fees before remitting payments to Hosts
11. Damage, Liability, and Disputes
11.1 Property Damage
Guests are responsible for any damage caused during their stay. Hosts may request compensation directly from the Guest.
11.2 Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted under Nigerian law, Apaté shall not be liable for property damage, theft or loss, personal injury, or disputes between Hosts and Guests.
11.3 Indemnification
You agree to indemnify and hold Apaté harmless from claims arising from your use of the Platform, breach of these Terms, or violation of any law or third-party rights.
12. Platform Availability
We do not guarantee continuous or uninterrupted access, or error-free operation. We may suspend or modify the Platform at any time.
13. Intellectual Property
All content on the Platform (excluding user-generated content) is owned by Apaté. You may not copy, reproduce, or distribute Platform content without permission.
14. Termination
We may suspend or terminate your account if you violate these Terms or engage in fraudulent or harmful conduct. You may stop using the Platform at any time.
15. Privacy
Your use of the Platform is subject to the Apaté Privacy Policy.
16. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
These Terms are governed by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Parties shall first attempt amicable resolution. Unresolved disputes shall be submitted to arbitration in Nigeria or competent courts within Nigeria.
17. Force Majeure
Apaté shall not be liable for failure or delay caused by acts of God, government actions, power outages, internet disruptions, or civil unrest.
18. Changes to Terms
We may update these Terms at any time. Continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms.