The Straightforward Version
I want you to be happy with your site. That's why I offer free test sites for semi-static projects. You see what you're getting before you pay. If something goes wrong with a paid project, we'll work it out. If we can't, I'll handle refunds fairly. Here's how it works.
Free Test Sites (Semi-Static Projects)
For semi-static website projects, I build a working draft for free before you pay anything. This is the best "refund policy" there is. You don't pay unless you're happy.
How Free Test Sites Work
- You fill out an onboarding form with your business details
- I build a working draft of your site on a test URL
- You review it and request changes
- We go back and forth until you're satisfied
- You only pay if you decide to launch
What If I Don't Like the Test Site?
Then you don't pay. Simple as that. No refund needed because you haven't paid anything yet.
Why Don't WordPress Sites Get Free Tests?
WordPress sites require significant setup time. This includes installing WordPress, configuring plugins, setting up e-commerce or booking systems, etc. I can't afford to do that level of work speculatively. However, I'm always transparent about what you'll get, and we'll discuss the design direction before I start.
Paid Project Refunds
Before Substantial Work Is Done
If you change your mind early in a project (before I've invested significant time), I'll refund your payment minus any hours already worked (billed at my standard hourly rate).
Example: You paid $1,500 for a WordPress site. After 5 hours of setup work, you decide to cancel. I'll refund the balance minus 5 hours of work.
After Substantial Work Is Done
Once I've put significant time into a project, refunds are evaluated case-by-case. Factors I consider:
- How much work has been completed
- Whether the issue is due to miscommunication or a mistake on my part
- Whether I can deliver what was promised
If I can't deliver what we agreed on, I'll make it right by either fixing the issues or refunding part or all of your payment.
If I Screw Up
If I fail to deliver what I promised, or if there's a major issue that's my fault, I'll either:
- Fix it at no additional cost, or
- Provide a full or partial refund, depending on the circumstances
I'm not interested in keeping money for work I didn't deliver.
Hosting & Maintenance Refunds
Monthly Billing
If you're billed monthly and cancel, you'll have service through the end of your current billing period. No refund for the current month (you've already used the service).
Annual Billing
If you paid annually and cancel mid-year, you'll receive a pro-rated refund for unused months.
Example: You paid $240 for a year of hosting (January-December). You cancel in July. You'll get a refund for the remaining 6 months (approximately $120).
No Refunds for Violations
If I terminate your hosting due to non-payment, illegal activity, or other violations of the Terms of Service, no refund is provided.
Non-Refundable Items
Some expenses can't be refunded because they're third-party costs:
- Domain registrations: If I registered a domain on your behalf, that cost is non-refundable (it's paid to the domain registrar).
- Third-party services: SSL certificates, premium plugins, stock images, or other third-party purchases made for your project are non-refundable.
- Completed work: If I completed the work we agreed on and you simply changed your mind, no refund is provided.
How to Request a Refund
If you believe you're entitled to a refund:
- Contact me directly: contact@dirtriverdesign.com or (701) 732-0799
- Explain the situation and why you're requesting a refund
- I'll review your request and respond within 5 business days
- If approved, refunds are processed within 10 business days
Stripe Payment Disputes
I use Stripe to process payments. If you initiate a chargeback or payment dispute through your bank:
- Please contact me first. Most issues can be resolved faster by talking directly.
- If you file a dispute without contacting me, I'll provide documentation to Stripe showing the work was completed as agreed.
- Chargebacks for delivered services may result in termination of hosting and future service denial.
I'd rather resolve issues directly than go through the dispute process. It's better for both of us.
Time Limits
Refund requests should be made within:
- 30 days for completed website projects
- 60 days for hosting/maintenance billing issues
After these periods, refunds are at my discretion.
Refund Method
Refunds are issued to the original payment method (typically via Stripe). If that's not possible, we'll arrange an alternative method (check, ACH, etc.).
Questions or Concerns?
If you're unhappy with your service or have concerns about billing, please reach out before requesting a refund. Most issues can be resolved with a quick conversation.
- Email: contact@dirtriverdesign.com
- Phone: (701) 732-0799 (text first)
I'm here to make sure you're satisfied with your site and service. Let's talk if something's not right.