1. Overview
This document describes how Ground Control IP LLC collects express consent from callers before sending SMS or MMS text messages. Ground Control operates branded vanity toll-free numbers (such as 866-SEALCOAT, 877-MULCHMAN, and similar numbers) that connect homeowners with licensed local contractors.
This policy is designed to comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), CTIA Messaging Principles and Best Practices, and carrier requirements for toll-free messaging verification.
2. How We Collect Consent (Opt-In)
2a. Verbal Consent During AI Voice Call
When a caller interacts with our AI voice agent, the agent will verbally disclose that a text message will be sent and request the caller's consent before sending any SMS or MMS message.
The caller must affirmatively agree (e.g., "yes," "sure," "go ahead") before any text message is sent. If the caller declines or does not respond, no message is sent.
2b. Web Form Consent (Where Applicable)
When a caller or prospect submits their phone number through a web form operated by Ground Control or a contractor partner, the form includes the following disclosure adjacent to the phone number field:
The checkbox is unchecked by default and requires the user to take an affirmative action to opt in. The form will not submit a consent record unless the checkbox is checked.
3. Consent Requirements
All consent collected by Ground Control meets the following standards:
Consent is never a condition of purchasing any goods or services. Callers may decline to receive text messages and still complete their inquiry and be connected to a contractor.
The caller is told who will send the message, what kind of messages they will receive, that standard rates may apply, and how to opt out.
Consent is collected for a specific purpose related to the caller's project inquiry, not for general marketing. Separate express written consent is obtained for any promotional messages.
The caller can revoke consent at any time by replying STOP to any message. Opt-in data is never sold, shared, or transferred to any third party for their own use.
4. Consent Record Keeping
Ground Control maintains records of each consent event, including:
- The caller's phone number
- The date and time consent was given
- The method of consent (verbal during AI call, or web form submission)
- The call recording or form submission record as evidence of consent
- The specific disclosure provided at the time of consent
These records are retained for a minimum of five (5) years and are available to Twilio or carriers upon request for verification purposes.
5. Opt-Out (Revocation of Consent)
Recipients can opt out at any time by replying with any of the following keywords: STOP, STOPALL, UNSUBSCRIBE, CANCEL, END, or QUIT.
Upon receiving an opt-out keyword, the system will send one final confirmation message and will not send any further messages to that number unless the recipient re-consents. Opt-out requests are processed immediately and automatically through our messaging platform (Twilio).
6. Help and Support
Recipients may reply HELP to any message to receive the following response:
7. Sample Messages
The following are examples of messages sent by Ground Control on behalf of local contractors:
| Message Type | Sample Content |
|---|---|
| Photo Request | Hi [Name], this is [Contractor Name] via 866-SEALCOAT. Please reply with photos of your driveway or project area so we can prepare an accurate estimate. Reply STOP to opt out. |
| Estimate Confirmation | Hi [Name], your free estimate with [Contractor Name] is confirmed for [Date/Time] at [Address]. Reply STOP to opt out of messages. |
| Follow-Up | Hi [Name], thanks for calling 866-SEALCOAT. Your local contractor [Contractor Name] will be in touch shortly about your project. Reply STOP to opt out. |
8. Approved Use Cases
Messages sent from toll-free numbers operated by Ground Control fall under the following use case categories:
- Customer Care — responding to inbound inquiries about home services
- Delivery Notifications — estimate and appointment confirmations
- Account Notifications — service-related updates to callers who have opted in
Contact
Ground Control IP LLC · support@groundcontrolip.com