Affiliate Guidelines and Ethical Promotion Practices

Independent Contractor Status

Referral partners, affiliate marketers, and promoters (collectively "Affiliates") are independent contractors and are not considered employees, agents, or representatives of the United Trades Association ("UTA"). Affiliates operate independently and are solely responsible for their own business operations, tax obligations, and legal compliance.

Professional Standards and Respect

Affiliates are expected to always uphold respect for our local trade workers and the skilled trades community. Your conduct, communications, and promotional activities must reflect UTA's commitment to professionalism, integrity, and the dignity of trade professionals.

Prohibited Activities and Unauthorized Dealings

At no time shall Affiliates make side deals, arrangements, or agreements using the United Trades Association name, brand, reputation, or member relationships in any aspect outside of the authorized referral program for personal gains or benefits. Specifically prohibited:

• Entering into contracts or agreements on behalf of UTA without express written authorization
• Soliciting UTA members or referred companies for personal business ventures unrelated to the referral program
• Misrepresenting affiliation with UTA or implying employment, partnership, or agency relationship
• Using UTA's name, trademarks, logos, or proprietary information for unauthorized purposes
• Offering unauthorized discounts, guarantees, or promises not explicitly approved by UTA
• Collecting payments, fees, or deposits on behalf of UTA or referred members
• Creating competing services or products using knowledge gained through the referral program

Accurate Representation Requirements

Affiliates must accurately represent UTA's services, benefits, membership requirements, and pricing. False advertising, misleading claims, deceptive marketing practices, or exaggerated promises are strictly prohibited and constitute grounds for immediate termination and potential legal action.

Intellectual Property Protection

All UTA trademarks, service marks, trade names, logos, and proprietary information remain the exclusive property of United Trades Association. Affiliates are granted limited, revocable permission to use approved marketing materials solely for authorized referral activities. Unauthorized use, modification, or reproduction is prohibited.

Indemnification and Liability

Affiliates agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless United Trades Association, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any and all claims, damages, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from: (a) Affiliate's breach of these guidelines; (b) unauthorized use of UTA's name or intellectual property; (c) misrepresentation or fraudulent conduct; (d) side deals or unauthorized agreements; or (e) violation of any applicable laws or regulations.

Termination and Remedies

UTA reserves the right to immediately terminate any Affiliate relationship, withhold unpaid commissions, and pursue all available legal remedies for violations of these guidelines, including but not limited to: breach of contract, trademark infringement, unfair competition, fraud, or tortious interference. Termination does not waive UTA's right to seek damages or injunctive relief.

Confidentiality Obligations

Affiliates must maintain strict confidentiality of all non-public information obtained through the referral program, including but not limited to: member lists, pricing structures, business strategies, and proprietary systems. Disclosure or misuse of confidential information is prohibited and may result in legal action.

Legal Compliance and Ethical Standards

Affiliates must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to: FTC advertising guidelines, anti-spam regulations (CAN-SPAM Act), data privacy laws, and consumer protection statutes. Ethical promotion practices must be maintained at all times.

Modification of Terms

UTA reserves the right to modify, amend, or update these Affiliate Guidelines at any time without prior notice. Continued participation in the referral program after modifications constitutes acceptance of the updated terms. Affiliates are responsible for regularly reviewing these guidelines.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These guidelines shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising from or relating to the referral program shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Osceola County, Florida.