Private Chef & Private Cook Addendum

FlexiEats - Effective December 16, 2025

1. Nature of the Transaction

When you order from a seller categorized as "Private Chef," "Private Cook," or "Catering (Home-Based)," you are purchasing personalized culinary services from an independent contractor — not purchasing food as a retail product from a restaurant or licensed food facility.

2. Permitted Service Methods

The seller may provide services through one of these methods (chosen by the seller):

  • In-Home Cooking: Cook in your home or event location
  • Delivery: Prepare the meal in the seller's private residence and deliver it to you
  • Pickup: Prepare the meal in the seller's private residence for you to pick up

⚠️ 3. Your Explicit Acknowledgments & Agreements

By placing this order and checking "I Agree," you acknowledge and agree that:

  • The food is prepared in the seller's private home kitchen (unless in-home cooking is selected) which is not a commercially licensed or routinely inspected food facility.
  • You assume all risks related to food safety, allergies, refrigeration, and storage.
  • You will not resell or redistribute the food.
  • You release FlexiEats, its officers, employees, and affiliates from any liability arising from the preparation, delivery, or consumption of the meal, including foodborne illness or property damage.

4. Platform Role

FlexiEats is only a technology marketplace connecting you with independent service providers. We do not:

  • Prepare, inspect, store, or transport food for these orders
  • Employ or supervise private chefs or private cooks
  • Inspect seller kitchens or food preparation methods
  • Verify compliance with local cottage food laws

5. Seller Verification

Private chefs and private cooks on FlexiEats are required to:

  • Upload a valid ServSafe Food Handler or ServSafe Manager certificate
  • Sign a compliance affirmation confirming adherence to all applicable state and local laws
  • Self-report general liability insurance coverage

Note: FlexiEats performs document review but does not guarantee seller compliance with all applicable laws.

6. Food Safety & Allergies

You are responsible for:

  • Communicating all allergies and dietary restrictions to the seller
  • Verifying ingredients and preparation methods directly with the seller
  • Inspecting food upon receipt for freshness and proper temperature
  • Proper refrigeration and storage of perishable items

⚠️ FlexiEats is not responsible for foodborne illness, allergic reactions, or food quality issues.

7. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless FlexiEats from any claims, fines, lawsuits, or regulatory actions arising from this transaction, including but not limited to:

  • Foodborne illness claims
  • Allergic reactions
  • Health department violations
  • Property damage
  • Violations of local cottage food or home kitchen laws

8. State & Local Laws

Cottage food laws vary significantly by state and locality. Some jurisdictions:

  • Prohibit home-based food sales entirely
  • Limit sales amounts (e.g., $50,000/year)
  • Restrict certain food types (e.g., no dairy, meat, or canned goods)
  • Require special labeling or permits

By placing this order, you acknowledge that you are aware of and accept the risks associated with ordering from a home-based food provider.

9. No Warranties

PRIVATE CHEF AND PRIVATE COOK SERVICES ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.FlexiEats makes no warranties regarding food quality, safety, taste, or fitness for a particular purpose.

10. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from private chef or private cook orders must be resolved directly between you and the seller. FlexiEats may facilitate communication but is not a party to such disputes.

11. Governing Law

This Addendum is governed by the laws of the State of Delaware and is supplemental to theFlexiEats Terms of Use.

12. Acceptance Required

By proceeding with a private chef or private cook order, you confirm that:

  • You are 18 years of age or older
  • You have read and understood this Addendum
  • You accept all terms and risks outlined above

🚨 IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE

This is a legally binding agreement. By checking the "I Agree" box at checkout, you are entering into a contract and waiving certain legal rights. If you do not understand or agree to these terms, do not place an order from private chefs or private cooks. For restaurant orders, this addendum does not apply.

← Back to FlexiEats