MEP Central Terms and Conditions

Effective Date: 1/1/2025
Last Updated: 10/25/2025

1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to MEP Central, a multi-vendor marketplace for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing supplies operated by UniverseIT ("we," "us," "our," or "MEP Central").

These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("you," "your," or "User") and MEP Central governing your access to and use of the MEP Central website, mobile applications, and all related services (collectively, the "Platform").

By accessing or using the Platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and all applicable laws and regulations. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not access or use the Platform.

2. Definitions

"Buyer" means any individual or business entity that purchases products through the Platform
"Seller" or "Supplier" means any independent merchant, vendor, or supplier that lists and sells products through the Platform
"User" means any person or entity that accesses or uses the Platform, including both Buyers and Sellers
"Content" means text, images, photos, audio, video, location data, and all other forms of data or communication
"Product" means any item, good, or service listed for sale on the Platform by a Seller
"Order" means a confirmed purchase transaction between a Buyer and a Seller through the Platform
"Featured Vendor" means a Seller who has entered into a premium partnership agreement with MEP Central

3. Platform Description and Role

3.1 Marketplace Platform

MEP Central operates as an online marketplace that connects independent Sellers of MEP supplies with Buyers. MEP Central provides the technology infrastructure, payment processing, and administrative tools to facilitate transactions between Buyers and Sellers.

3.2 Independent Seller Relationship

MEP Central is NOT the seller of products listed on the Platform. Each product is offered for sale by an independent third-party Seller. The contract for sale of any product is directly between the Buyer and the Seller. MEP Central is not a party to that transaction.

3.3 Platform Services

MEP Central provides:

Technology platform for product listings and transactions
Payment processing services
Communication tools between Buyers and Sellers
Order management and tracking systems
Marketing and promotional services
Customer support coordination
Integration with business management systems

3.4 Limitations of Platform Role

MEP Central does NOT:

Take possession of products sold through the Platform
Provide warranties for products (unless explicitly stated)
Control product pricing, availability, or shipping
Guarantee Seller performance or product quality
Assume liability for Seller actions or product defects

4. Eligibility and Account Registration

4.1 Eligibility Requirements

To use the Platform, you must:

Be at least 18 years of age
Have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts
Not be prohibited from using the Platform under applicable law
Provide accurate and complete registration information

4.2 Business Accounts

Business entities may register for commercial accounts and must:

Have authority to bind the business to these Terms
Provide valid business information and tax identification
Maintain accurate business credentials
Comply with all applicable commercial regulations

4.3 Account Registration

To create an account, you must:

Provide accurate, current, and complete information
Maintain and update your information to keep it accurate
Maintain the security of your account credentials
Accept responsibility for all activities under your account
Notify MEP Central immediately of any unauthorized access

4.4 Account Termination

MEP Central reserves the right to suspend or terminate your account at any time for:

Violation of these Terms
Fraudulent or illegal activity
Providing false or misleading information
Abuse of Platform services
Excessive chargebacks or payment disputes
Any conduct harmful to MEP Central or other Users

5. Buyer Terms and Obligations

5.1 Product Purchases

When placing an order, Buyers:

Enter into a direct contract with the Seller
Agree to pay the listed price plus applicable taxes and shipping
Acknowledge that product availability is subject to Seller confirmation
Accept responsibility for verifying product specifications and compatibility
Understand that MEP Central facilitates but is not party to the transaction

5.2 Order Confirmation

Orders are not confirmed until accepted by the Seller
Sellers reserve the right to cancel orders due to pricing errors, stock availability, or other reasons
Buyers will receive order confirmation via email when Sellers accept the order
Order acceptance constitutes a binding contract between Buyer and Seller

5.3 Payment Authorization

By providing payment information, you:

Authorize MEP Central to charge your payment method for orders
Confirm you are authorized to use the payment method provided
Agree to pay all applicable taxes and fees
Acknowledge payment is processed on behalf of the Seller

5.4 Pricing and Availability

All prices are in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated
Prices are subject to change without notice
Sellers control product pricing
Prices may include or exclude taxes and shipping as indicated
Price errors may result in order cancellation

5.5 Sales Tax

Applicable sales tax will be calculated and collected at checkout
Tax rates vary by jurisdiction and product type
Buyers are responsible for any use tax obligations
Tax-exempt entities must provide valid exemption certificates

5.6 Professional Use Acknowledgment

Many products sold on the Platform are intended for professional use and installation by licensed contractors. Buyers acknowledge:

They are responsible for determining if professional installation is required
Products may require specialized knowledge, tools, or licensing to install
MEP Central and Sellers are not responsible for improper installation or use
Local codes and regulations must be followed

6. Seller Terms and Obligations

6.1 Seller Registration

To sell on the Platform, Sellers must:

Complete the Seller registration process
Provide accurate business and tax information
Agree to the Seller Agreement and these Terms
Maintain required business licenses and insurance
Comply with Featured Vendor program requirements if applicable

6.2 Product Listings

Sellers are solely responsible for:

Creating accurate and complete product descriptions
Setting competitive and accurate pricing
Maintaining adequate inventory levels
Updating product availability in real-time
Providing accurate images and specifications
Ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
Classifying products in appropriate categories

6.3 Prohibited Products

Sellers may not list:

Counterfeit, stolen, or illegal products
Products that violate intellectual property rights
Hazardous materials requiring special licensing (beyond standard MEP supplies)
Products banned by local, state, or federal law
Recalled or unsafe products
Products misrepresented as certified or approved when not

6.4 Order Fulfillment

Sellers must:

Confirm or cancel orders within 24 hours
Ship orders within stated timeframes
Provide accurate tracking information
Package products securely to prevent damage
Honor the Platform's return policy standards
Maintain professional communication with Buyers

6.5 Customer Service

Sellers are responsible for:

Responding to customer inquiries within 2 business days
Processing returns according to the Return Policy
Handling product defects and warranty claims
Resolving customer disputes professionally
Maintaining a minimum customer satisfaction rating

6.6 Seller Fees and Commissions

Sellers pay a platform commission on each completed sale (rate specified in Seller Agreement)
Payment processing fees apply as outlined in the Seller Agreement
Featured Vendor program members receive referral rebates as specified
Fees are automatically deducted from seller payouts
Fee structures may be modified with 30 days notice

6.7 Seller Payouts

Payouts are processed according to the schedule in the Seller Agreement
Funds are held for a specified period to accommodate returns and chargebacks
Sellers must maintain valid banking information for ACH transfers
MEP Central may withhold payouts for policy violations or pending disputes

7. Payment Terms

7.1 Accepted Payment Methods

MEP Central accepts:

Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
Debit cards
ACH bank transfers (for business accounts)
Net terms for approved commercial accounts
Other payment methods as may be offered

7.2 Payment Processing

Payments are processed securely through third-party payment processors
Payment information is encrypted and stored according to PCI-DSS standards
MEP Central does not store complete credit card numbers
Payment is collected at time of order placement

7.3 Authorization Holds

Payment authorization may be placed at time of order
Actual charge occurs when order ships
Authorization holds may expire if order is not fulfilled within specified timeframe

7.4 Commercial Credit Terms

Approved business accounts may receive net payment terms:

Credit applications must be completed and approved
Credit limits and terms are determined by creditworthiness
Late payment fees apply to past-due balances
MEP Central may suspend credit privileges for late payment
Personal guarantees may be required

7.5 Failed Payments

If payment fails or is declined:

Order may be automatically cancelled
Account privileges may be suspended
Collection efforts may be initiated for unpaid balances
Legal action may be taken for fraudulent transactions

8. Shipping and Delivery

8.1 Shipping Responsibility

Sellers are responsible for shipping products to Buyers
Shipping methods, costs, and timeframes are determined by Sellers
Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on Seller policies
Free shipping promotions are offered at Seller discretion

8.2 Delivery Timeframes

Estimated delivery dates are provided by Sellers and are not guaranteed
Delays may occur due to weather, carrier issues, or other circumstances
MEP Central is not liable for shipping delays

8.3 Shipping Addresses

Buyers must provide accurate and complete shipping addresses
Buyers are responsible for costs associated with address correction or reshipment
Residential vs. commercial designation affects shipping costs and requirements

8.4 Delivery Issues

For damaged, lost, or missing shipments:

Contact the Seller immediately
Document damage with photographs
File claims according to carrier and Seller policies
MEP Central may assist in coordinating resolution

8.5 Freight Shipments

Large or heavy equipment may require:

Freight carrier delivery
Commercial address or liftgate service
Appointment scheduling
Additional fees and delivery time
Buyer assistance with unloading

9. Returns and Refunds

All returns are subject to the MEP Central Return Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference. Key points:

Returns must be initiated within 30 days of delivery
Products must be in original, unopened packaging
Each Seller is responsible for processing their own returns
Restocking fees may apply (typically 15-25%)
Many items are non-returnable (chemicals, cut materials, special orders, etc.)
Defective products and shipping errors are handled separately

Full details are available in the complete Return Policy document.

10. Product Information and Accuracy

10.1 Product Descriptions

Sellers provide all product information, images, and specifications
MEP Central does not independently verify product information
Buyers should review specifications carefully before purchase
Technical specifications are sourced from manufacturers when possible

10.2 Pricing Errors

Obvious pricing errors may result in order cancellation
Sellers reserve the right to correct pricing errors before confirming orders
MEP Central is not liable for pricing mistakes

10.3 Product Images

Images are representative and may not reflect exact appearance
Actual products may vary in color, finish, or minor details
Package contents may vary; refer to specifications for details

10.4 Compatibility and Suitability

Buyers are responsible for ensuring product compatibility with their application
Consult with licensed professionals for system design and equipment selection
Local code requirements must be verified by the Buyer
Returns are not accepted for incompatibility or incorrect product selection

11. Intellectual Property Rights

11.1 Platform Ownership

MEP Central owns or licenses all intellectual property rights in the Platform, including:

Website design, layout, and functionality
Software, source code, and algorithms
Trademarks, logos, and branding
Content created by MEP Central
Compilation of product listings and data

11.2 Seller Content License

By listing products, Sellers grant MEP Central a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license to:

Display product information and images
Use Seller branding in connection with product listings
Promote products through marketing and advertising
Create derivative works for Platform functionality

11.3 User Content

By submitting content (reviews, questions, photos, etc.), you grant MEP Central:

A perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free license to use, modify, and display the content
The right to use your name or username in connection with the content
You represent that you own or have rights to the content submitted

11.4 Trademark Notice

"MEP Central" and associated logos are trademarks of UniverseIT. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

11.5 Copyright Infringement

MEP Central respects intellectual property rights. If you believe content infringes your copyright:

Submit a DMCA notice to our designated agent
Include identification of the copyrighted work
Identify the infringing material and its location
Provide your contact information and a good faith statement
Include a physical or electronic signature

11.6 Restrictions on Use

You may not:

Copy, modify, or create derivative works from the Platform
Reverse engineer or decompile Platform software
Use automated tools to access or scrape the Platform
Frame or mirror any Platform content
Remove copyright or proprietary notices

12. User Conduct and Prohibited Activities

12.1 Acceptable Use

Users agree to use the Platform only for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms.

12.2 Prohibited Conduct

You may not:

Violate any applicable laws or regulations
Infringe on intellectual property rights of others
Transmit viruses, malware, or harmful code
Attempt to gain unauthorized access to systems or accounts
Interfere with or disrupt Platform operations
Impersonate any person or entity
Harass, threaten, or abuse other Users
Post false, misleading, or fraudulent content
Manipulate reviews, ratings, or feedback
Engage in price manipulation or collusion
Use the Platform to spam or advertise competing services

12.3 Fraudulent Activity

Engaging in fraudulent activity will result in:

Immediate account termination
Forfeiture of any outstanding payments or refunds
Reporting to law enforcement authorities
Legal action for damages

12.4 Reviews and Ratings

When posting reviews, you must:

Base reviews on actual experience with the product
Provide honest and accurate feedback
Not post fake, misleading, or incentivized reviews
Avoid profanity, discriminatory language, or personal attacks
Comply with FTC guidelines for endorsements and testimonials

13. Disclaimers and Warranties

13.1 Platform Disclaimer

THE PLATFORM IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

Warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose
Warranties of title or non-infringement
Warranties regarding accuracy, reliability, or completeness of content
Warranties of uninterrupted or error-free operation

13.2 No Warranty for Products

MEP CENTRAL MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES REGARDING:

Product quality, safety, or legality
Product descriptions or specifications provided by Sellers
Seller performance or reliability
Product compatibility with any specific application
Compliance with applicable codes or regulations

13.3 Third-Party Content

The Platform may contain links to third-party websites or services. MEP Central:

Does not endorse or control third-party content
Is not responsible for third-party websites or services
Makes no warranties regarding third-party content

13.4 Professional Advice Disclaimer

Content on the Platform is for general information only and does not constitute:

Professional engineering or design advice
Code compliance consultation
Installation instructions (except where provided by manufacturers)
Warranty or guarantee of product performance

Always consult licensed professionals for system design, equipment selection, and installation.

14. Limitation of Liability

14.1 General Limitation

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, MEP CENTRAL AND ITS AFFILIATES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, AND LICENSORS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR:

Indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages
Loss of profits, revenue, data, or business opportunities
Loss of use or loss of goodwill
Business interruption or system failures
Cost of substitute goods or services
Personal injury or property damage arising from Platform use
Damages arising from Seller conduct or product defects

14.2 Maximum Liability Cap

IN NO EVENT SHALL MEP CENTRAL'S TOTAL LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ALL CLAIMS RELATED TO THE PLATFORM EXCEED THE GREATER OF:

$100 (One Hundred Dollars), OR
The total amount you paid to MEP Central in the 12 months preceding the claim

14.3 Exceptions

Some jurisdictions do not allow limitation of liability for certain damages. In such jurisdictions, liability is limited to the fullest extent permitted by law.

14.4 Seller Liability

Sellers are solely liable for:

Product defects and safety issues
Breach of contract with Buyers
Misrepresentation of products
Failure to fulfill orders
Violation of applicable laws

15. Indemnification

15.1 User Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless MEP Central, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and licensors from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from:

Your use or misuse of the Platform
Your violation of these Terms
Your violation of any rights of third parties
Your violation of applicable laws or regulations
Content you submit to the Platform
Your interactions with other Users

15.2 Seller Additional Indemnification

Sellers additionally agree to indemnify MEP Central for claims arising from:

Products sold through the Platform
Product descriptions and representations
Failure to fulfill orders or process returns
Infringement of intellectual property rights
Breach of warranties or guarantees

15.3 Defense and Settlement

MEP Central reserves the right to assume exclusive defense and control of any matter subject to indemnification, and you agree to cooperate with our defense of such claims.

16. Privacy and Data Protection

16.1 Privacy Policy

Your use of the Platform is subject to our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference. The Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

16.2 Data Collection

By using the Platform, you consent to:

Collection of information as described in the Privacy Policy
Use of cookies and similar tracking technologies
Processing of payment information by third-party processors
Sharing information with Sellers for order fulfillment

16.3 Communications

By creating an account, you consent to receive:

Transactional emails regarding your orders and account
Marketing communications (which you may opt out of)
Service announcements and updates
Communications from Sellers regarding your orders

17. Dispute Resolution

17.1 Informal Resolution

Before filing a claim, you agree to contact MEP Central Support to attempt informal resolution of disputes.

17.2 Binding Arbitration

YOU AND MEP CENTRAL AGREE THAT ANY DISPUTE ARISING FROM OR RELATING TO THESE TERMS OR THE PLATFORM SHALL BE RESOLVED BY BINDING ARBITRATION on an individual basis, rather than in court, except:

Small claims court actions
Claims for injunctive relief
Claims related to intellectual property

17.3 Arbitration Procedures

Arbitration will be conducted by the American Arbitration Association (AAA)
Arbitration will be held in Houston, Texas or another mutually agreed location
The arbitrator's decision is final and binding
Each party bears its own costs unless otherwise awarded
Discovery and procedures are limited to ensure efficient resolution

17.4 Class Action Waiver

YOU AGREE THAT CLAIMS MUST BE BROUGHT INDIVIDUALLY AND NOT AS PART OF ANY CLASS, CONSOLIDATED, OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION. Class arbitrations, class actions, private attorney general actions, and consolidation are not permitted.

17.5 Opt-Out Right

You may opt out of the arbitration agreement by sending written notice within 30 days of first accepting these Terms to: MEP Central Legal Department [Address] Houston, TX [Zip Code]

17.6 Disputes Between Users

Disputes between Buyers and Sellers should be resolved directly. MEP Central may facilitate communication but is not obligated to resolve User disputes.

18. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

18.1 Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of law principles.

18.2 Venue

For any disputes not subject to arbitration, you agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in Harris County, Texas.

18.3 Compliance with Laws

Users are responsible for compliance with all applicable local, state, federal, and international laws and regulations.

19. Modifications to Terms

19.1 Right to Modify

MEP Central reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective upon posting to the Platform with an updated "Last Updated" date.

19.2 Notice of Changes

For material changes, we will provide notice through:

Email notification to registered Users
Prominent notice on the Platform
Pop-up notification upon next login

19.3 Acceptance of Changes

Continued use of the Platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms. If you do not agree to the changes, you must discontinue use of the Platform.

20. General Provisions

20.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with the Privacy Policy, Return Policy, and any Seller Agreements, constitute the entire agreement between you and MEP Central regarding use of the Platform.

20.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, that provision shall be limited or eliminated to the minimum extent necessary, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

20.3 Waiver

Failure by MEP Central to enforce any provision of these Terms does not waive our right to enforce that provision or any other provision in the future.

20.4 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer these Terms or your account without MEP Central's prior written consent. MEP Central may assign these Terms without restriction.

20.5 Force Majeure

MEP Central is not liable for failure or delay in performance due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including acts of God, natural disasters, war, terrorism, labor disputes, or government actions.

20.6 Survival

Provisions that by their nature should survive termination shall survive, including warranties, disclaimers, limitations of liability, indemnification, and dispute resolution provisions.

20.7 Headings

Section headings are for convenience only and do not affect interpretation of these Terms.

20.8 Electronic Communications

You consent to receive communications from us electronically, and you agree that electronic communications satisfy any legal requirement that communications be in writing.

21. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact:

MEP Central Legal Department
Email: legal@mepcentral.com
Phone: 409-225-2020
Website: www.mepcentral.com

Customer Support:
Email: support@mepcentral.com
Phone: 409-225-2020
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Central Time

Acknowledgment

BY CLICKING "I AGREE," CREATING AN ACCOUNT, OR USING THE PLATFORM, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, UNDERSTAND THEM, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM.

IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS, DO NOT USE THE PLATFORM.

Last Updated: 10/25/2025
Version: 1.0