Desktop Engineering Review — Terms of Engagement

Seth Jamison Kitchen, P.E. · Professional Engineering Services — Missouri · Version 2026-10-05

1. Parties and agreement

These terms are an agreement between you ("Client") and Seth Jamison Kitchen, P.E. ("Engineer") for a desktop engineering review ordered through ChatGPT or https://seth.kitchen. By checking the acceptance box and paying, you agree to these terms. Together with your order details, they are the written agreement for this limited engagement. An inquiry or message without payment does not create an engineer–client relationship.

2. Scope of services

Engineer will review the photos, measurements, drawings and information you provide for the project and question described in your order, and prepare a written report of findings, stated assumptions and supporting calculations or sketches as Engineer judges appropriate.

This is a desktop review: Engineer does not visit the site. Concealed, inaccessible or unreported conditions, and conditions that differ from the information provided, are outside the scope. If Engineer determines that a site visit, additional information or additional services are needed to reach a responsible conclusion, Engineer will tell you before proceeding; any added work requires your written approval and a separate quote.

The report is delivered as a printed copy mailed to the address you provide. Engineering documents are signed and sealed only when, in Engineer's professional judgment, the scope and available information support responsible charge under Missouri rules. Ordering a review does not guarantee a sealed document.

3. Licensure and project location

Engineer is licensed as a Professional Engineer in Missouri only. Project reviews are provided for projects located in Missouri.

For projects outside Missouri, Engineer offers only engagements that the project's jurisdiction permits for an engineer not licensed there, such as expert witness or litigation consulting, or general engineering information that is not specific to your project. Those engagements are not engineering design, certification or a sealed document, and are not for permit submittal or construction in that jurisdiction.

If Engineer determines that an engagement is not permitted in the project's jurisdiction, or is outside Engineer's competence, Engineer will decline it and refund the fee in full.

4. Fee and refunds

The fee for a desktop review is $750, paid in advance, and includes one printed report and standard mail delivery within the United States.

If Engineer declines the engagement after reviewing your intake (for example, the project is outside Missouri, outside the desktop-review scope, or presents a conflict of interest), you will receive a full refund. You may cancel for a full refund before Engineer begins the review. Once the review has begun, fees are non-refundable except as required by law.

One revision is included if field measurements or conditions you report differ from the original intake information within 30 days of delivery. Further revisions or additional scope are quoted separately.

5. Client responsibilities and reliance on information

You will provide complete and accurate information, including dimensions, photos, existing drawings and any permit or utility requirements known to you. Engineer is entitled to rely on the information you and your representatives provide without independent verification, and is not responsible for errors or omissions resulting from inaccurate or incomplete information.

You are responsible for obtaining permits and for the selection and supervision of contractors. Engineer does not supervise construction and is not responsible for construction means, methods, techniques, sequences, safety or the contractor's work.

6. Standard of care and disclaimer of warranties

Engineer will perform the services consistent with the degree of care and skill ordinarily exercised by members of the same profession currently practicing under similar circumstances in the same locality (the "Standard of Care").

No other warranty, express or implied, is made or intended. ENGINEER DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Engineer does not guarantee that any authority having jurisdiction, lender, insurer or other party will accept or approve the report, or any particular outcome.

7. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the total liability of Engineer to Client for all claims, losses, damages and expenses arising out of or relating to this engagement, from any cause, including negligence, errors, omissions, strict liability or breach of contract, shall not exceed the total fee paid for the services ($750).

Neither party is liable to the other for indirect, incidental, special or consequential damages, including lost profits, loss of use or delay, however arising.

8. Use of the report

The report is prepared solely for Client and the specific project, location and conditions described. No third party may rely on it without Engineer's written consent. Any reuse, modification or reliance beyond the original purpose is at the user's sole risk. Engineer retains ownership of and copyright in its documents; Client may copy them for the project's permitting and construction.

9. Confidential and sensitive information

Do not send privileged, financial or other sensitive information unless Engineer requests it. Engineer keeps project materials confidential except as required by law or professional rules, or as needed to perform the services.

10. Disputes and governing law

These terms are governed by the laws of the State of Missouri. The parties agree to attempt in good faith to resolve any dispute through direct discussion and then non-binding mediation before starting litigation. Any action shall be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of Missouri.

11. General

Either party may terminate this engagement on written notice; Client then pays for services performed to the termination date, with any unearned fee refunded. If any provision is unenforceable, the remainder stays in effect. These terms, with your order details, are the entire agreement for this engagement and may only be changed in writing.

Questions: contact@seth.kitchen · (314) 916-6010