Dispute Resolution.

1. Overview

Dottegigs is committed to fair outcomes for both clients and freelancers. This page explains how disputes are raised, reviewed, and resolved on our platform.

We encourage all parties to attempt direct resolution first. Most disagreements can be settled through clear communication. When that isn't possible, Dottegigs' support team will step in to mediate.

2. When You Can File a Dispute

A dispute can be filed when:

• Delivered work does not match the agreed-upon requirements
• A freelancer fails to deliver within the agreed timeline
• A client refuses to approve satisfactory work without valid reason
• There is a disagreement about project scope or deliverables
• Payment was charged but the service was not rendered

Disputes must be filed within 14 days of the event in question.

3. How to File a Dispute

To file a dispute, contact our support team with the following information:

• Your account email and username
• The gig title and ID (found on your gig details page)
• A clear description of the issue
• Any supporting evidence (screenshots, messages, files)
• The outcome you are seeking

4. Resolution Process

Step 1: Acknowledgement

We acknowledge all dispute submissions within 48 hours. You will receive a confirmation email with a case reference number.

Step 2: Investigation

Our team reviews the gig details, payment records, messages between parties, and any submitted evidence. Both the client and freelancer will be contacted for their account of the situation.

Step 3: Mediation

Where possible, we facilitate a resolution that both parties agree to. This may include partial refunds, revised deliverables, or extended deadlines.

Step 4: Decision

If mediation does not resolve the dispute, Dottegigs will make a final decision based on the evidence provided. Decisions are typically made within 7 business days of investigation start.

5. Possible Outcomes

Depending on the circumstances, dispute outcomes may include:

• Full refund to the client if work was not delivered or was materially deficient
• Partial refund if some deliverables were completed satisfactorily
• Full payment to the freelancer if work met the agreed requirements
• Revised scope with a new deadline for the freelancer to address issues
• Account action against a party found to be acting in bad faith

6. What We Consider

When making a decision, our team considers:

• The original gig description and requirements
• Communication history between client and freelancer
• Delivered work versus agreed scope
• Payment and transaction records
• Whether either party violated our Terms of Service
• Good faith efforts made by both parties

7. Appeals

If you disagree with a dispute decision, you may submit an appeal within 7 days of the decision. Appeals must include new evidence or information not previously considered. Appeal decisions are final.

8. Preventing Disputes

To minimise the risk of disputes, we recommend:

• Clearly define requirements and deliverables before starting work
• Communicate regularly through the platform's messaging system
• Use milestone-based payments for larger projects
• Review deliverables promptly and provide clear feedback
• Keep all agreements and changes documented on the platform

9. Contact

For questions about our dispute process: