Client Agreement
This agreement outlines the working relationship between Heritage and Lineage and clients who commission genealogy research and narrative family history writing services.
By commissioning a project with Heritage and Lineage, clients acknowledge and agree to the following terms.
1. Nature of the Service
Heritage and Lineage provides bespoke genealogy research and narrative family history writing. Each project is individually researched and written by a dedicated genealogist.
Every commission is unique and tailored to the client’s family history. The work involves historical research, interpretation of archival records, and narrative writing designed to preserve family heritage.
2. Commissioning a Project
A project is considered commissioned once:
• An initial consultation has taken place
• The scope of the project has been agreed
• A deposit has been received
Once a project is commissioned, a place is reserved within the research schedule.
3. Research Process
Genealogical research is carried out using a range of historical sources, which may include:
• Civil registration records
• Census records
• Parish registers
• Military records
• Immigration records
• Local archives and historical collections
The depth and availability of records varies between regions and time periods. Research outcomes depend on the survival and accessibility of historical documentation.
4. Timescales
Family history research requires careful investigation and verification.
Most commissions take between six months and one year depending on:
• The number of family lines being researched
• The availability of records
• The complexity of the project
• Archival access requirements
Estimated timescales are provided as guidance and may change where additional research is required.
5. Client Participation
Clients are welcome to contribute information that may assist with the research process. This may include:
• Family stories
• Photographs or documents
• Names, dates, and locations
• Interviews with relatives
Where possible, information supplied by clients will be cross-referenced with historical records.
6. Fees and Payment
Fees are agreed prior to the start of the project.
Unless otherwise agreed, payment is structured in three stages:
• A deposit before research begins
• A second payment following completion of the research phase
• A final payment upon delivery of the finished work
Work will not begin until the deposit has been received.
7. Refunds and Cancellations
Due to the bespoke nature of genealogy research and writing, refunds are limited.
If it becomes clear during an initial assessment period of up to fourteen days that the family history cannot be traced sufficiently to produce a meaningful project, the deposit will be refunded in full.
Once substantive research has begun, payments already made are non-refundable.
8. Research Limitations
Genealogical research depends on historical records which may be incomplete, damaged, or unavailable.
Heritage and Lineage cannot guarantee that:
• A specific ancestor will be identified
• A fixed number of generations will be traced
• All historical records will be accessible
All findings represent the best interpretation of available evidence.
9. Confidentiality
All information provided by clients is treated with strict confidentiality.
Family documents, personal information, and research findings are handled with care and discretion and are not shared with third parties unless required for research purposes or with the client’s consent.
10. Intellectual Property
All written material produced by Heritage and Lineage remains the intellectual property of Heritage and Lineage until full payment has been received.
Upon completion and payment in full, the client receives the completed work for personal and family use.
11. Data Protection
Heritage and Lineage handles personal information in accordance with UK GDPR and applicable data protection laws.
Further information is available in the Privacy Policy and GDPR Notice on this website.
12. Communication
Clients are encouraged to maintain communication throughout the project. Updates may be provided at key stages of research and writing.
Where clarification or additional information is required, Heritage and Lineage may contact the client during the project.
13. Governing Law
This agreement is governed by the laws of England and Wales.
14. Contact
For questions relating to this agreement or ongoing commissions, please contact:
Heritage and Lineage
enquiries@heritageandlineage.com