KUMMUNI Code of Conduct

Introduction

Welcome to KUMMUNI, where our mission is to create a welcoming, inclusive, and innovative housing environment for newcomers to Germany. As a leading provider in the rental housing market, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, respect, and professionalism. This Code of Conduct serves as a guide for all members of the KUMMUNI community—tenants, employees, shareholders, vendors, and partners—outlining the values, principles, and behaviors that are essential to our success.

At KUMMUNI, we believe that our success is built on a foundation of trust, transparency, and mutual respect. We are dedicated to providing a living and working environment where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered. This Code of Conduct is not just a set of rules; it is a reflection of our commitment to creating a positive impact both within our community and in the broader society. We encourage you to read it carefully, understand its importance, and commit to upholding the standards it sets forth.

Together, we can create a positive impact that extends beyond KUMMUNI, fostering a culture of excellence, respect, and integrity.

Our Mission

KUMMUNI’s mission is to be the leading housing provider for newcomers to Germany, offering a personalized, discrimination-free living experience. We are dedicated to supporting individuals who have faced barriers in the housing market, particularly those who have been subject to discrimination. Our mission is the cornerstone of every decision we make, guiding us in creating a community where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and valued. We expect all stakeholders—tenants, team members, shareholders, and partners—to align with and actively support this mission.

Our Core Values

At KUMMUNI, our core values define who we are and guide our actions. These values are:

1. Integrity: We operate with honesty and transparency in all our dealings, maintaining the highest ethical standards.
2. Respect: We treat everyone with dignity and fairness, fostering an environment of mutual respect.
3. Innovation: We embrace change and encourage creativity, continually seeking new ways to improve our services and processes.
4. Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and strive to create a community where everyone feels valued and included.
5. Responsibility: We are accountable for our actions and their impact on our community, environment, and society.

Our Responsibilities

For Team Members

Ethical Conduct and Professionalism

As a KUMMUNI team member, you are a vital part of our mission to provide exceptional service and create a positive environment. We expect you to:

• Uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all interactions, whether with colleagues, tenants, or external partners.
• Act as a role model by adhering to the ethical standards that define KUMMUNI, recognizing that your behavior directly impacts our reputation and success.

Inclusivity and Diversity

At KUMMUNI, we are committed to fostering a workplace where diversity is celebrated, and inclusivity is a priority. We expect all team members to:

• Respect and embrace the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and talents of your colleagues.
• Contribute to an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to bring their full selves to work.

Representing and Protecting the Brand

Your role as a representative of KUMMUNI is critical to our brand’s integrity. We ask that you:

• Protect and promote KUMMUNI as a trusted brand, ensuring that your actions and communications are consistent with our values and mission.
• Avoid any actions or communications that could negatively affect our reputation, image, or brand. Your conduct should always reflect positively on KUMMUNI.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

KUMMUNI’s commitment to excellence is reflected in the quality of our services and the innovative solutions we provide. As a team member, you should:

• Embrace innovation and continually seek to improve the quality of your work.
• Be open to feedback and new ideas, ensuring that we meet and exceed the needs of our tenants and fulfill our mission.

Workplace Safety and Health

The safety and well-being of our employees are of utmost importance. We expect you to:

• Follow all health and safety guidelines and contribute to maintaining a safe working environment.
• Report any unsafe conditions, incidents, or potential hazards to management immediately.

Respect for Leadership

A respectful work environment is one where everyone’s contributions are valued. We expect you to:

• Support your managers, respect their decisions, and avoid any actions that could undermine their authority or spread misinformation.
• Recognize that management roles are awarded based on qualifications and leadership abilities, and respect their guidance accordingly.

Objective Reporting

Clear and accurate communication is essential to our success. When reporting incidents or relevant events, you should:

• Provide an accurate, factual account without making personal evaluations or assumptions.
• Ensure that all issues are addressed fairly, based on verified facts.

Culture of Double-Checking

At KUMMUNI, accuracy is paramount. We encourage you to:

• Double-check all work before finalizing it, including reviewing numbers, verifying facts, and considering the potential impact of your actions.
• Maintain KUMMUNI’s high standards of quality and reliability in every task.

Accurate Records and Reports

Maintaining accurate records is crucial to our operations. We ask that all employees:

• Carefully document every verbal interaction with third parties, including tenants.
• Follow up on verbal interactions with a written protocol via email, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding.
• Remember that no deal, agreement, or arrangement is considered final without proper written documentation.

Drugs and Alcohol

To maintain a safe and productive work environment, we request that:

• Employees refrain from performing their duties under the influence of any legal or illegal substances, including prescription medications that could impair their ability to work safely.
• Alcohol consumption during casual times and after working hours on company premises is done responsibly, ensuring that it does not impair judgment, behavior, or safety.

Discounts for Managers, Team Members, and Shareholders

KUMMUNI may offer discounts on our products to our community under the following guidelines:

• Discounts must be fair and should not negatively impact the company’s profitability. They should be modest enough to ensure that KUMMUNI continues to gain sufficient profit.
• Employees are eligible for the highest level of discount as long as KUMMUNI still gains a fair profit. The discount amount may vary based on tenure and contract terms, with full-time employees potentially receiving higher discounts.
• The discount is a discretionary benefit and may be withdrawn if it is determined that continuing it would harm the company’s interests.

For Tenants

Mutual Respect and Conduct

At KUMMUNI, we are dedicated to fostering a positive and respectful living environment. We ask our tenants to:

• Treat our team members and fellow tenants with the respect and courtesy that they deserve. We value open, respectful communication and do not condone any form of disrespect or rudeness.
• Adhere to the terms of your rental agreement, as any breach of contract, particularly those that could impact our brand or community, will be addressed with appropriate seriousness.

Inclusive and Hygienic Living Environment

We are committed to providing an inclusive and hygienic environment for all tenants, especially in our co-living spaces. To maintain this standard, we encourage tenants to:

• Use shared areas and items fairly and considerately, recognizing that these spaces and items are meant to be enjoyed by everyone.
• Engage in respectful behavior towards fellow tenants. We strive to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and respected in their living space and do not condone any form of aggressive or disruptive behavior.
• Help maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of shared spaces, contributing to a comfortable living environment for everyone.

Tenant Rights and Protections

We are committed to ensuring that tenants feel secure and supported in their interactions with KUMMUNI employees. This includes:

• Protecting tenants from any form of power abuse by employees.
• Ensuring that decisions affecting tenants are made with proper consultation and senior management approval.

Engagement and Feedback

We value the input of our tenants and believe that constructive feedback is essential for continuous improvement. We encourage tenants to:

• Share your thoughts, suggestions, and concerns with us, knowing that your feedback is important and will be taken seriously.
• Participate in surveys and community meetings to help us better understand your needs and enhance our services.

For Shareholders

Expectations of Shareholders

As a shareholder in KUMMUNI, your primary role is to support the company’s financial health and long-term success. We ask that you:

• Understand that your influence is limited to financial matters and does not extend to day-to-day operations or strategic direction.
• Respect the Code of Conduct and avoid influencing management decisions in ways that contradict our mission or values.

Prohibition on Reputation Damage

Shareholders play a critical role in maintaining KUMMUNI’s reputation. We ask that you:

• Avoid any actions or decisions that could harm KUMMUNI’s reputation or the trust placed in us by our tenants, employees, and partners.
• Refrain from engaging in any behavior that could negatively impact the company’s public image or standing in the community.

Commitment to Long-Term Success

While financial returns are important, we encourage shareholders to:

• Prioritize KUMMUNI’s long-term success and reputation over short-term gains.
• Support decisions that align with our mission, even if they do not maximize immediate profits.

Transparency and Integrity

We expect shareholders to maintain the highest standards of transparency and integrity in all dealings related to KUMMUNI. This includes:

• Not using KUMMUNI as a tool to enable, empower, or start another business. The company’s resources and reputation should not be exploited for personal ventures.
• Being transparent about ownership levels when interacting with third parties, ensuring clarity about your actual percentage of ownership in KUMMUNI.

Housing Requests for Relatives and Friends

We welcome shareholder recommendations for housing for their relatives, friends, or others, but the following conditions apply:

• The recommended individual must apply for housing through the standard application process. Applications will be reviewed fairly, based on merit and availability.
• Priority will be given to earlier applicants, regardless of a shareholder’s recommendation.
• If approved, shareholders must sign a Grantor Statement, making them personally responsible for any financial concerns related to the tenancy during the individual’s stay with KUMMUNI.

For Vendors, Partners, and External Stakeholders

Alignment with Our Values

We ask vendors, partners, and external stakeholders to:

• Align with KUMMUNI’s values and adhere to the same high ethical standards we uphold.
• Respect our mission and ensure that all dealings with KUMMUNI are conducted with integrity.

Commitment to Ethical Practices

In your interactions with KUMMUNI, we expect you to:

• Engage in ethical practices and maintain transparency in all transactions.
• Uphold the highest standards of professionalism in all dealings with our company.

Support for Our Mission

We encourage all external stakeholders to:

• Support KUMMUNI’s mission by providing services and products that align with our values.
• Contribute positively to the well-being of our tenants and community, ensuring that your actions reflect our commitment to excellence.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

Privacy Commitment

At KUMMUNI, protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal and sensitive information is a top priority. We are committed to:

• Ensuring that all data is collected, stored, and used according to the highest standards of confidentiality and applicable data protection laws.
• Taking immediate action to address any data breaches and prevent future occurrences.

Zero Tolerance for Data Breaches

The security of our data is critical, and we enforce a strict policy regarding data breaches. This includes:

• Not tolerating any breach of data, in any form. Those responsible for a data breach—whether through negligence, misconduct, or deliberate actions—will face serious consequences.
• For senior employees in critical positions and shareholders, a data breach may result in immediate legal action. We treat this matter with the utmost seriousness to protect KUMMUNI’s integrity and security.

Health, Safety, and Environment

Safe Living and Working Spaces

KUMMUNI is committed to providing and maintaining safe, secure, and healthy environments for our tenants and employees. We aim to:

• Adhere to all relevant health and safety regulations and exceed industry standards wherever possible.
• Encourage all employees, contractors, and tenants to follow safety protocols and take proactive steps to prevent accidents and injuries.

Environmental Responsibility

We recognize our responsibility to minimize our environmental impact. KUMMUNI is dedicated to:

• Reducing our carbon footprint, conserving resources, and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
• Implementing energy-efficient technologies and encouraging sustainable practices within our properties and communities.

Abuse of Power

Professional Conduct and Decision-Making

We ask that no individual at KUMMUNI uses their position of authority for personal gain. We expect all employees to:

• Perform their duties impartially and with integrity, ensuring decisions are made in consultation with senior management.
• Avoid any actions that could be perceived as favoritism or undue influence over others.

Expectations for Staff

Employees should understand that their role does not grant them the right to make unilateral decisions that could negatively impact others. We encourage you to:

• Consult senior management on significant decisions, particularly those affecting tenants.
• Act in the best interests of KUMMUNI and its community at all times.

Tenant Rights and Protections

We are committed to ensuring that tenants feel secure in their interactions with KUMMUNI employees. This includes:

• Protecting tenants from any form of power abuse by employees.
• Ensuring that decisions affecting tenants are made with proper consultation and senior management approval.

Conflict of Interest

Avoidance and Disclosure

KUMMUNI is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity. A conflict of interest arises when personal interests interfere with the company’s interests. We expect all employees, contractors, partners, shareholders, senior and junior managers, and other employees to avoid such situations and to disclose any potential conflicts immediately.

Hiring Policy and Recommendations

We welcome recommendations from our shareholders, senior and junior managers, and other employees, including those for family members, friends, or former colleagues. However, all hiring decisions are based strictly on the candidate’s qualifications, skills, and fit for the role. This ensures that our hiring process remains fair and focused on merit.

Maintaining Professionalism in Personal Relationships

We value professionalism at all times, particularly when personal relationships are involved. Family members or individuals in romantic relationships who work at KUMMUNI must keep their personal connections separate from their professional roles to avoid any perceptions of favoritism.

Family Members, Friends, and Relatives in the Workplace

Family members, friends, and relatives are welcome to work at KUMMUNI as long as they bring value to the business. Employment decisions are based on merit and the ability to contribute positively to our goals, ensuring a fair and transparent work environment.

Partnerships with Family-Owned Businesses

We maintain strict policies to prevent conflicts of interest. While family members may own equity in KUMMUNI, we do not engage in supplier or service agreements with companies owned by family members of stakeholders. This policy protects the integrity of our business and ensures that all decisions are made impartially.

Professional Integrity

We ask that everyone at KUMMUNI ensures that their relationships do not disrupt the workplace or interfere with their work or judgment. It is important that:

• No one at KUMMUNI uses their position to obtain benefits for themselves, family members, or others with whom they have a personal relationship.
• Decisions should always be made in the best interest of the company and not influenced by personal connections.

Identifying and Managing Conflicts

If you believe you might be in a situation that could involve a conflict of interest, it’s important to disclose this to your supervisor or HR immediately. Full transparency is key to managing and resolving any potential issues.

Social Media and Communication Policy

Responsible Use of Social Media

Social media plays a significant role in how KUMMUNI is perceived by the public. We ask that employees and stakeholders:

• Use social media responsibly, ensuring that their online presence does not conflict with KUMMUNI’s values or harm our reputation.
• Avoid sharing proprietary or confidential information on public platforms.
• Represent KUMMUNI positively online, in a manner consistent with our brand and values.

Confidential Communication

All communications related to KUMMUNI should be conducted with professionalism and confidentiality. We expect that:

• Employees will maintain discretion in all forms of communication, both online and offline.
• Sensitive information is shared only with authorized individuals and within secure channels.

Anti-Harassment and Anti-Bullying Policy

Commitment to a Respectful Workplace

KUMMUNI is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and bullying. We ask that all employees:

• Treat each other with respect, fostering an environment where everyone feels safe and valued.
• Refrain from any behavior that could be considered harassment or bullying, including unwelcome advances, discriminatory remarks, or any form of intimidation.

Reporting and Addressing Harassment

If you experience or witness harassment or bullying, we encourage you to:

• Report the incident to HR or management as soon as possible.
• Be assured that all reports will be taken seriously and handled with confidentiality.
• Understand that retaliation against anyone who reports harassment or bullying is strictly prohibited.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Zero Discrimination Policy

Our Zero Discrimination Policy is at the heart of our commitment to corporate social responsibility. We are dedicated to:

• Ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, receives equal treatment and opportunities within our community.
• Building an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and all voices are heard.

Affordable and Inclusive Housing

KUMMUNI is committed to offering affordable, fully furnished properties while maintaining fair profitability. We achieve this by:

• Integrating our marketing budget into our pricing model to offer competitive rates that are lower than those of our competitors.
• Ensuring that our pricing remains transparent, fair, and accessible to a diverse range of tenants.

Community Engagement

We believe in giving back to the communities we serve. KUMMUNI encourages:

• Employee participation in volunteer work and community service.
• Partnerships with local organizations to support social initiatives that align with our mission.
• Active involvement in charitable activities that benefit the broader community.

Innovation and Intellectual Property

Encouraging Innovation

Innovation is key to KUMMUNI’s success. We encourage all employees to:

• Contribute ideas and suggestions that can help improve our services, products, or processes.
• Respect the intellectual property rights of others, both within and outside of KUMMUNI.

Protecting Intellectual Property

It is essential to protect KUMMUNI’s intellectual property. We expect that:

• All innovations, inventions, and creative works developed within the company are protected under KUMMUNI’s intellectual property policies.
• Employees will not disclose or misuse any proprietary information or intellectual property belonging to KUMMUNI.

Reporting Violations

Whistleblower Protections

KUMMUNI encourages employees, tenants, and partners to report any violations of this Code of Conduct. We are committed to:

• Creating an environment where individuals can raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
• Treating all reports confidentially and taking necessary steps to protect whistleblowers from any form of retaliation.

Reporting Channels

We provide multiple channels for reporting concerns, including:

• Direct communication with HR or management.
• An anonymous reporting system that ensures all reports are thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions are taken.

Disciplinary Actions

Consequences of Violations

We take violations of this Code of Conduct very seriously and they may result in disciplinary actions, up to and including termination. KUMMUNI is committed to:

• Ensuring that all disciplinary actions are conducted fairly, consistently, and in accordance with company policies and legal requirements.
• Addressing issues transparently and justly, while upholding the integrity of our company.

Zero Tolerance for Racism and Violence

KUMMUNI is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment. Therefore:

• Any form of racism or violence is not tolerated. Regardless of legal considerations, any employee found engaging in racist behavior or acts of violence will face immediate termination. This policy underscores our dedication to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone.

Fair Process

We believe in fairness and respect in all disciplinary matters. This includes:

• Providing individuals accused of violating the Code the opportunity to present their side of the story before any disciplinary action is taken.
• Maintaining a transparent and just process for all parties involved.

Acknowledgment

Commitment to Upholding the Code

All employees, contractors, tenants, shareholders, vendors, and partners are required to acknowledge their understanding of this Code of Conduct and commit to upholding its principles in their daily activities. By adhering to this Code, we collectively contribute to a culture of integrity, respect, and excellence that defines KUMMUNI.