1. Introduction and Framework
1.1 These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern access to and use of the BlockStorage website and platform (the “Platform”), through which users may search for, reserve and contract storage spaces (“Units”) provided by third parties (“Operators”) or by BBKW, Lda., operating under the BlockStorage brand.
1.2 By accessing and using the Platform, the user declares that they have read, understood and fully accept these Terms.
1.3 BBKW reserves the right to update or amend these Terms at any time. Changes shall take effect upon publication on the Platform.
2. Nature of the Platform
2.1 BlockStorage primarily acts as a digital intermediary between Operators and Users, providing a marketplace platform where Operators may list their Units and Users may reserve them.
2.2 When a reservation is made, a direct contractual relationship is established between the User and the Operator, and the specific terms of use, pricing and policies of that Operator shall apply.
2.3 Where BlockStorage acts as an Operator (i.e. where the Unit is owned and managed directly by BBKW), the provisions relating to direct storage services described in this document (see Sections 6 to 9) shall also apply.
2.4 BlockStorage is not a party to contracts between the User and the Operator, unless expressly stated otherwise.
3. Use of the Platform
3.1 The User undertakes to use the Platform solely for lawful purposes and shall refrain from engaging in unlawful, fraudulent or disruptive conduct.
3.2 The automated use of systems (bots, crawlers, scripts) that interfere with the service is prohibited.
3.3 BlockStorage may suspend or terminate access for any User who breaches these Terms.
4. Booking and Payment Processes
4.1 The User may reserve a Unit through the Platform upon payment of the indicated amount.
4.2 Payment is processed securely by BBKW or by partner payment service providers.
4.3 Where BlockStorage acts solely as an intermediary, the amount paid shall be transferred to the Operator, less the agreed commission.
4.4 Cancellation and refund policies are those defined by the Operator, unless otherwise stated by BBKW.
4.5 BBKW reserves the right to suspend bookings or payments where there are indications of fraud, contractual breach or misuse.
5. Liability and Limitations
5.1 BBKW/BlockStorage shall not be liable for the performance or quality of storage services provided by Operators, nor for the custody, security or integrity of goods stored in third-party Units.
5.2 The User acknowledges that the storage contract is entered into directly with the Operator, who shall be solely responsible for the stored goods.
5.3 Where BBKW/BlockStorage acts as the Operator (i.e. directly provides the Unit), the following specific conditions apply:
- The Client is solely responsible for the stored goods and assumes all risk relating to their storage and use;
- BBKW/BlockStorage shall not be liable for loss, theft, damage or deterioration, except in cases of wilful misconduct or gross negligence;
- The storage of high-value items (cash, jewellery, art, securities) or illegal, flammable, toxic or perishable goods is prohibited.
5.4 The User/Client agrees to indemnify BBKW and the Operators against any damages, claims or costs arising from improper use of the services.
6. Storage Service Conditions (where BBKW/BlockStorage acts as Operator)
6.1 The Client may use the Unit to store movable goods for the agreed period, subject to advance payment of the stated price.
6.2 The Client is responsible for accessing, handling and placing goods within the Unit.
6.3 The Client must keep the Unit clean and secure and return it in good condition at the end of the contract.
6.4 The use of the Unit is prohibited for:
- Residential purposes, office use, registered address or business address;
- Commercial or industrial activities without authorisation;
- Storage of hazardous, perishable, animal or unlawful goods.
6.5 BBKW may, for technical or safety reasons, temporarily relocate the Client’s contents, notifying the Client whenever possible.
6.6 The Client is responsible for any damage caused to facilities, equipment or common areas.
7. Payments and Default
7.1 Payment is made in advance at the start of each contractual period (monthly, unless otherwise agreed).
7.2 Payment may be made by credit card, direct debit, bank transfer or other methods approved by BBKW.
7.3 Payment delays exceeding 5 days will result in suspension of access to the Unit and the application of an administrative fee (minimum €20).
7.4 If payment is not regularised within 7 days of notification, the contract shall be automatically terminated, and the Client must vacate the Unit within a maximum of 7 days.
7.5 If the Client fails to remove their goods, BBKW may:
- Access the Unit, remove the goods and transfer them to temporary storage;
- Sell, donate or dispose of the goods after 15 days, applying any proceeds to settle the outstanding debt;
- Charge minimum collection, cleaning and disposal costs (€300 + VAT).
7.6 BBKW may record the Client’s details in default registers and take appropriate legal action to recover outstanding amounts.
8. Insurance
8.1 Insurance may be mandatory for use of the Unit, as specified in the Particular Conditions.
8.2 The Client acknowledges that, even with insurance, primary responsibility for the goods remains with them.
8.3 Where no insurance is taken out, the Client declares that they assume full risk of loss or damage.
9. Duration, Renewal and Termination
9.1 The contract has a minimum duration of 15 days (or 30 days for Units larger than 20 m²) and renews automatically on a monthly basis.
9.2 Either party may terminate the contract by written notice:
- 15 days’ notice (Units up to 20 m²);
- 30 days’ notice (larger Units).
9.3 The Client must leave the Unit empty, clean and ready for reuse; otherwise, an additional fee may be applied.
9.4 Failure to provide the required notice will result in payment of the fee corresponding to the renewal period.
10. Data Protection
10.1 BBKW, as the entity responsible for the BlockStorage brand, processes personal data in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR) and applicable national legislation.
10.2 The Client may exercise their rights of access, rectification, objection and erasure via the email address provided in the Platform’s contact section.
10.3 Data may be shared with Operators and service providers strictly necessary for the performance of contracts and payments.
11. Intellectual Property
11.1 All Platform content (texts, logos, trademarks, code and design) is the exclusive property of BBKW or licensed third parties.
11.2 Reproduction, modification or commercial use without prior authorisation is prohibited.
12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
12.1 These Terms are governed by Portuguese law.
12.2 In the event of a dispute, the parties agree to submit to the courts of the Lisbon District, unless otherwise required by mandatory law.