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Cookies Policy

Cookies Policy — Gray’s Signature Builds

Effective date: 30 October 2025
Contact: info@grayssignaturebuilds.co.uk

This Cookies Policy explains what cookies are, how and why we use them on our WordPress information site, the types of cookies you may encounter, your choices about cookies, and how to manage or delete them.

1. What are cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit websites. They help the site remember information about your visit (for example your preferences or whether you’ve seen certain messages). For general public guidance on cookies see the ICO. ICO

2. Why we use cookies

We use cookies to make our website work reliably, to improve your experience, and to understand how the site is used so we can improve content and performance. Some cookies are essential for the site to function; others are optional and used for analytics or to personalise content.

The UK regulator’s guidance explains when consent is required and the lawful bases for different cookie types. ICO

3. Types of cookies we may set

Below are the common categories of cookies and examples you may see on an informational WordPress site. Depending on plugins and third-party tools you install (analytics, maps, video embeds), the exact cookies may vary.

a. Strictly necessary (essential) cookies
These are required for core site functions (page navigation, security, admin). Without these the site may not function correctly. Example(s): PHPSESSID (session identifier), WordPress admin cookies (only if you or an admin are logged-in). No consent required for strictly necessary cookies.

b. Preference (functional) cookies
Remember choices you make (language, region, cookie banner preferences) so the site can provide enhanced features.

c. Performance & analytics cookies
Collect information about how visitors use the site (pages visited, time on site). We use this to improve the website. A common example is Google Analytics (GA4) cookies such as _ga (used to distinguish users, typically expires after 2 years) and _gid (used to distinguish users, typically expires after 24 hours). See Google’s documentation for default GA4 cookie names and durations. Google Help+1

d. Marketing/advertising cookies
Used to deliver adverts relevant to you and measure ad campaigns. These are usually third-party cookies and often require consent.

4. Typical cookies you may see (examples)

Note: these are examples only — run a cookie scan or check your browser dev tools to see the exact cookies set by your site and plugins.

  • _ga, _gid, _gat — Google Analytics (GA4) — analytics cookies; typical expiry: _ga 2 years, _gid 24 hours, _gat short-lived. Google Help+1

  • PHPSESSID — server session cookie (essential).

  • wordpress_*, wp-settings-* — WordPress admin/editor cookies (only present for logged-in users).

  • Third-party embed cookies (YouTube, Vimeo, or social widgets) — durations vary by provider.

If you want, I can scan your live site and produce an exact list of cookies with names and expiry times.

5. Consent, lawful basis & changing preferences

  • Strictly necessary cookies do not require consent.

  • For non-essential cookies (analytics, marketing), we rely on consent (you opt in via the cookie banner) or other lawful bases where permitted under UK law. The ICO has updated guidance and consultation materials on storage and access technologies — keep an eye on ICO guidance as practice evolves. ICO+1

You can withdraw or change your consent at any time by using the cookie control link in the site footer (if present) or by clearing/managing cookies in your browser (see section 7).

6. Third-party cookies & embeds

Third parties (e.g., analytics providers, video hosts, social networks) may set cookies when you use their features embedded on our site. We do not control those cookies; the third party’s privacy policy governs their use. Typical examples include Google (Analytics, Maps), YouTube embeds, and social plug-ins.

We recommend linking to and reviewing the privacy pages of any third-party services you rely on.

7. How to manage or delete cookies

You can manage cookie preferences using your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block third-party cookies, delete existing cookies and set site-specific rules. Below are official guidance pages for common browsers and a general how-to resource:

  • Google Chrome (manage cookies): guidance from Google. Google Help

  • Microsoft Edge (manage cookies): guidance from Microsoft. Microsoft Support

  • General cross-browser instructions: aboutcookies.org — practical steps for Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge and mobile browsers. All About Cookies

If you block cookies, parts of the site may no longer work correctly.

8. Cookie retention periods

Cookie lifetimes vary by cookie. Analytics cookies like _ga commonly last 2 years, _gid around 24 hours, but retention and settings can be configured within your analytics account. We recommend configuring analytics retention settings to match your data-minimisation policy. See Google Analytics retention settings for details. Google Help+1

9. Updates to this Cookies Policy

We may update this Cookies Policy to reflect changes in law, guidance or the services we use. The effective date at the top will show when it was last revised. Major updates will be highlighted on the website.

10. Where to get more information & complaints

  • ICO guidance on cookies and lawful requirements: Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). ICO+1

  • If you have questions about cookies used on our site, contact: info@grayssignaturebuilds.co.uk.

  • If you remain unhappy after contacting us you may complain to the ICO (see ico.org.uk).