Many people are confused about the difference between and the significance of website terms of use and terms and conditions of service or sale of goods.
The two are often thought of as being one and the same but, in fact, they are properly to be treated as distinct legal agreements used by businesses operating in the UK to define their contractual relationship with 1. their customers; and 2. their website users, who may also be or become their customers.
Website terms of use are a set of rules and guidelines that govern how a website can be used by visitors. These terms will cover required information about the website's owner, website access, user content, linking to the website, links to other websites, viruses and malware, liability, acceptable use policies, intellectual property, disclaimers of liability, privacy policies, and other legal notices.
Terms and conditions of service or the supply of goods, on the other hand, are specific to a particular product or service that a business offers to its customers. These terms cover the terms of the supply and use of the product or service, payment terms, delivery terms, and other important details that govern the relationship between the business and its customers. Terms and conditions are an integral part of a binding contract that is formed between the business and its customers.
In summary, website terms of use apply to the use of a website as a whole, while terms and conditions apply to a particular product or service offered by a business. Both types of agreements are important for businesses operating in the UK to protect their interests and define their relationships with their customers.
Also see our related article on The small print.
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