Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 2 October 2025

These Terms & Conditions set out the agreement between My German Origin (“we”, “us”, “our”) and the client (“you”, “your”) regarding the provision of genealogical and historical research services. By commissioning work, you agree to the following terms.

Key Points at a Glance

  • Clear Agreement First – Before I begin, we will agree on the project scope and hours.
  • Payment Upfront – All clients must pre-pay before research begins.
  • What You’re Paying For – Research time includes searching records, analysis, writing reports, and communication.
  • No Guaranteed Results – Records may not always exist or be found, but even “negative” searches help rule out options.
  • Refund of Unused Hours – If you book more time than needed, any unused prepaid hours will be refunded.
  • Costs & Expenses – Extra costs (certificates, archive fees, travel) are charged at cost, agreed upon in advance.
  • Confidentiality – Your information stays private and secure.
  • Copyright – Reports and research remain the intellectual property of My German Origin and cannot be published or reproduced without consent.

For the full details, please read the Terms & Conditions below.

1. Terms of Engagement

1.1 Project Confirmation

Before beginning any work, My German Origin will confirm our understanding of the project with you and seek your agreement before commencing research.

1.2 Previous Research

It is your responsibility to provide details of any previous research to avoid duplication of work.

1.3 Commissioned Time

We will not exceed the time initially commissioned without your prior agreement.

1.4 Reporting of Findings

Findings will be reported with detailed references to the sources consulted. Where research does not produce the desired results, we will provide an account of the avenues explored.

1.5 Paid Research Time

Paid time includes research, analysis, identifying and consulting records, report preparation and writing, and communication with the client (e.g. by email, telephone, or video call).

1.6 Unused Research Hours

If research requires less time than anticipated, you will only be invoiced for the time used. Where hours have been pre-paid, unused research hours will be refunded.

2. Payment Terms and Fees

2.1 Pre-Payment

For all clients, pre-payment is required before research begins. An invoice will be issued via email, and work will commence once payment is received.

2.2 Project Agreement

Each project will be agreed upon in writing before work starts. Payment must be made in advance as per the issued invoice.

2.3 Fee Basis

Fees are charged for time spent on research, analysis, record identification, consultation of records, report writing, and client communication.

2.4 Travel

Travel, if required, must be agreed upon in advance and will be charged at an hourly rate plus expenses.

2.5 Additional Costs

Additional costs (e.g. certificates, archive fees, postage) are charged at cost price.

2.6 Currency and Payment Methods

All prices are quoted in EUR (Euros). Payment is accepted via bank transfer (preferred), PayPal (subject to additional fees), or credit card (fees may apply). Full payment details are provided on the invoice.

3. Likelihood of Success

3.1 No Guarantees

Genealogical research does not guarantee specific results. Records may be incomplete, lost, or inaccessible. Research time includes time spent on searches that may not yield positive results. Excluding incorrect avenues can still be considered valuable progress.

3.2 Payment for Services

Payments are for the time and expertise spent on research, regardless of whether the outcome meets client expectations. The process often requires incremental steps and may take longer than anticipated.

4. General Provisions

4.1 Right to Decline

We reserve the right to decline projects where the likelihood of success is considered low.

4.2 Use of Specialists

Research is conducted by My German Origin. Where specialist input or local researchers are required (e.g. in archives), this will be discussed with you beforehand. Your personal details will not be shared with third parties without prior consent.

4.3 Communication

Regular communication between client and researcher will be maintained to ensure smooth progress.

4.4 Confidentiality

All information provided by the client will be treated confidentially.

4.5 Copyright

Reports provided by My German Origin remain the intellectual property of the researcher. They may not be reproduced, published, or amended (including online) without prior written consent.

5. Governing Law

These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of Germany. Any disputes shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of Berlin, unless otherwise required by applicable consumer law.