Terms and Conditions for Pond Cleaning Services

   IOW Aquatic Services – Terms & Conditions

Pond Cleaning, Pond Maintenance, Aquarium Cleaning & Aquarium Maintenance

Last updated: 13/01/2026

These Terms & Conditions apply to all services provided by IOW Aquatic Services. By booking or accepting any service, the client agrees to the following terms.

1. Scope of Work

IOW Aquatic Services will carry out the services agreed upon, which may include:

• Pond cleaning, debris removal, sludge removal, water treatment, filter cleaning, and UV replacement
• Aquarium cleaning, water changes, substrate cleaning, algae removal, filter servicing, and equipment checks

Any additional or specialist services must be agreed upon before work begins.

2. Livestock Handling & Health Disclaimer

We take all reasonable care when handling fish, amphibians, invertebrates, corals, and aquatic plants. However, we cannot accept liability for stress, injury, or mortality that may occur during or after service due to:

• Pre‑existing illness or weakened livestock
• Poor water quality prior to our arrival
• Sensitivity to water changes or treatments
• Natural reactions to environmental adjustments
• Hidden conditions or sudden livestock decline

Aquatic life is inherently sensitive, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

3. Client Responsibilities

The client agrees to:

• Provide safe, unobstructed access to ponds or aquariums
• Keep pets and children away from the work area
• Move fragile or valuable items away from indoor aquariums
• Inform us of any rare, delicate, or high‑value species
• Provide access to electricity and water where required

Failure to meet these responsibilities may limit the services we can provide.

4. Indoor Property Protection (Aquariums)

Aquarium maintenance takes place inside the client’s home or business. While care is taken to avoid spills, minor water splashes may occur.
IOW Aquatic Services is not liable for damage to flooring, furniture, décor, or electrical items unless caused by negligence.

Clients are responsible for protecting sensitive surfaces before service begins.

5. Equipment Testing & Electrical Safety

Maintenance may require unplugging, testing, or adjusting equipment such as filters, pumps, heaters, lighting, UV units, or CO₂ systems.
IOW Aquatic Services is not responsible for:

• Failure of old, faulty, or poorly installed equipment
• Damage caused by equipment the client refuses to replace
• Electrical issues arising from unsafe or pre‑existing wiring

Unsafe equipment may be disconnected for safety reasons.

6. Water Quality & Environmental Factors

Water quality may fluctuate during and after cleaning. The client acknowledges that:

• Temporary cloudiness or parameter shifts may occur
• Treatments may be required to stabilise water quality
• Improvements may take time, especially in neglected systems
• Outdoor ponds may be affected by weather, temperature, or natural imbalances

IOW Aquatic Services is not liable for livestock loss resulting from natural fluctuations or necessary water corrections.

7. Marine Aquarium Disclaimer (If Applicable)

Marine systems are highly sensitive. We cannot guarantee the survival or condition of:

• Corals
• Anemones
• Invertebrates
• Delicate marine fish

We are not responsible for coral bleaching, pest outbreaks, or parameter‑related losses.

8. Regular Maintenance Agreements

For clients on recurring service plans:

• Appointments may be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
• Missed appointments without 48 hours’ notice may incur a fee
• Access must be arranged if the client is not present
• Prices may be reviewed annually

9. Emergency Call‑Outs

Emergency visits may incur a higher call‑out fee.
IOW Aquatic Services cannot guarantee the survival of livestock during emergency interventions.

10. Pre‑Existing Conditions & Structural Issues

We are not liable for damage or failure caused by:

• Cracked or weakened tanks
• Faulty stands or cabinets
• Leaking pond liners or seals
• Rusted or corroded equipment
• DIY plumbing or unsafe installations
• Customer‑installed equipment failure

Any such issues will be documented and reported to the client.

11. On‑Site Safety & Trip Hazards

During service, hoses, cables, buckets, and tools may be placed around the work area.
The client accepts responsibility for ensuring no unauthorized persons, pets, or children enter the workspace.

IOW Aquatic Services is not liable for injuries or damage resulting from entry into the work zone.

12. Payment Terms

Payment is due upon completion unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Late payments may incur a 10% fee after 30 days.

13. Cancellations & Weather Delays

• Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance
• Severe weather or unsafe outdoor conditions may require rescheduling
• If access is not possible upon arrival, a call‑out fee may apply

14. Indemnity

The client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless IOW Aquatic Services from any claims, damages, or losses arising from:

• Failure to follow aftercare advice
• Pre‑existing livestock or equipment issues
• Interference with the work area
• Failure to meet client responsibilities

15. Agreement & Acceptance

By booking or accepting services, the client confirms they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms & Conditions.