Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Hitchin Motorcare Ltd (“we”, “us”, “our”), trading as HMC Cars, is committed to protecting your privacy in line with UK GDPR. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and share personal data when you visit our website or contact us.
 

2. Data Controller

Hitchin Motorcare Ltd
1–3 Wallace Way, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 0SE
Phone: 01462 441122 · Email: hitchinmotorcare@hotmail.com
Trading since 1990 as local car specialists for MOTs, servicing, repairs, and car sales.

3. Personal Data We Collect

• Contact form submissions: name, email, phone, vehicle registration, enquiry details

• Communications: information shared via phone or email about MOTs, servicing, repairs, tyre/wheel balance, air-con, purchases

• Website analytics: IP address, device/browser type, pages visited, session duration recorded using essential and performance cookies; no profiling or advertising cookies used
  hmccars.co.uk

4. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

• Respond to enquiries and schedule bookings (MOTs, servicing, repairs, diagnostics, tyres, wheel alignment, air-con recharge, used car sales)

• Provide quotes, appointment confirmations, and service updates

• Improve our website and services through anonymised analytics

• Fulfil legal, financial, warranty, and dealership compliance requirements

5. Legal Basis for Processing

• Contractual necessity: to fulfil your service or purchase requests

• Legitimate interests: to operate, manage, and enhance our business and website

• Consent: where you opt in for follow-up communications or marketing

• Legal obligation: for record-keeping, accounting, and compliance

6. Data Sharing

We do not sell or rent personal data. It may be shared with:

• Service providers (e.g., web hosting, email systems, analytics) acting as processors

• Insurers or warranty providers, if your service requires it

• Regulatory/legal authorities, when lawfully required

7. Cookies & Tracking

• Essential cookies: enable forms and basic site functionality

• Performance cookies (e.g. Google Analytics): collect anonymous usage data
  No advertising, profiling, or third-party tracking cookies are used
   

8. Data Retention

• Service, booking, and sales records: retained for up to 7 years for legal, warranty, and compliance purposes

• Analytics data: session logs deleted after 24 months; aggregated analytics retained as needed

9. Your Rights

Under the UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access, correct, delete, or restrict your personal data

• Withdraw consent or object to processing

• Request portability of your data
  Please contact us via phone or website to exercise these rights. You may also lodge a complaint with the ICO.

10. Security

Your data is safeguarded using SSL encryption, secure hosting, firewalls, and staff training. No system is invulnerable, but we follow industry best practices.

11. International Transfers

All data is stored and processed within the UK—no transfers outside the UK/EEA.

12. Policy Changes

We may update this policy periodically. The “Effective Date” will reflect the latest revision. Continued use of our site signals acceptance of any changes.