Terms of Service

Last updated: 2026.Q2

These terms govern your use of TheFatBook, including the cost index, calculators, estimate-analysis tools, guides, embedded widgets, and related pages. By using the site, you agree to these terms.

Citation & Reuse

TheFatBook cost data may be cited with attribution (for example, "Source: TheFatBook cost index, thefatbook.com"). You may not scrape, bulk-download, resell, or redistribute the database or tools, or republish substantial portions, without written permission. Linking to pages and using official embed code is allowed.

No Professional Advice

Cost estimates, fair-price ranges, savings estimates, financing calculations, and calculator outputs are for informational and educational purposes only. They are not quotes, bids, appraisals, legal advice, tax advice, financial advice, construction advice, or guarantees. Actual costs vary based on project specifics, contractor availability, materials, local codes, site conditions, timing, and market demand.

Contractor Decisions

TheFatBook does not endorse, license, supervise, or verify individual contractors. A fair-price result does not mean a contractor is qualified, insured, bonded, properly licensed, or safe to hire. Always verify licensing, insurance, references, permits, scope, warranty terms, payment schedule, and written contract terms before committing to work.

Data Accuracy

We update cost data periodically using sources such as BLS, FRED, Craftsman, permit-fee data, and industry references. Data may lag current market conditions. Regional adjustments are approximations based on metro-level inputs and may not reflect neighborhood-level pricing, contractor backlog, unusual site conditions, supply shortages, storm demand, or specialty materials.

Intellectual Property

TheFatBook site design, calculators, copy, cost-index presentation, analysis logic, and data compilation are proprietary. You may not reverse engineer protected tools or misrepresent the source of the data.

Limitation of Liability

TheFatBook is provided "as is" and "as available" without warranties of any kind. To the maximum extent permitted by law, we are not liable for decisions, losses, contractor disputes, project overruns, financing costs, failed negotiations, lost savings, property damage, or other damages arising from use of our data, tools, uploads, or content.

Changes to These Terms

We may update these terms as the service changes. Continued use of the site after updated terms are posted means you accept the revised terms.