Southern Maryland Divers, LLC
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    • Home
    • Courses
      • Beginner Courses
      • Refresher Courses
      • Advanced Courses
      • Technical Courses
      • Rebreather Courses
      • Professional Courses
      • EFR CPR and AED Courses
    • Trips
      • Local Dive Trips
      • International Trips
    • Equipment
      • Equipment Sales
      • Equipment Services
      • Equipment Rental
      • YouTube Product Reviews
    • Schedule / Calendar
      • Open Water Pool Schedule
      • Quarry Checkout Schedule
      • Dive Shop Hours
    • About Us
      • Our Team
      • Our Dive Shop
      • Core Values
      • Southern Md Dive Club
      • Shop Policies
    • Contact Us
Southern Maryland Divers, LLC
  • Home
  • Courses
    • Beginner Courses
    • Refresher Courses
    • Advanced Courses
    • Technical Courses
    • Rebreather Courses
    • Professional Courses
    • EFR CPR and AED Courses
  • Trips
    • Local Dive Trips
    • International Trips
  • Equipment
    • Equipment Sales
    • Equipment Services
    • Equipment Rental
    • YouTube Product Reviews
  • Schedule / Calendar
    • Open Water Pool Schedule
    • Quarry Checkout Schedule
    • Dive Shop Hours
  • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Our Dive Shop
    • Core Values
    • Southern Md Dive Club
    • Shop Policies
  • Contact Us

Shop Policies

Southern Maryland Divers, LLC Price Match Policy

We believe in offering competitive pricing without sacrificing service, expertise, or authenticity. If you find the same item for less from another authorized dealer, we’ll match it — fairly and transparently.


Eligibility

To qualify for a price match, the item must:
- Be the exact same brand, model, and SKU.
- Be new, unused, and in stock at the competing retailer.
- Be sold by an authorized U.S. dealer (not a marketplace, auction, or gray-market source).
- Include identical terms such as shipping and taxes.


How to Request a Price Match

1. Before purchasing, email info@somddivers.com with the link or written quote of the competing price.
2. We’ll verify the competitor’s offer and respond within one business day.
3. Once approved, you’ll receive a custom price or discount code for checkout.
4. Approved price matches are valid for 24 hours and must be completed within that timeframe.


Post-Purchase Adjustments

If you purchase an item from SoMd Divers and find a lower price from an authorized dealer within 7 days, contact us with proof of the lower advertised price. If approved, we’ll issue store credit for the difference.


Exclusions

Price matches are not available for:
- Auction sites (eBay), marketplace sellers, or gray-market listings.
- Clearance, refurbished, demo, or open-box items.
- Misprinted, obviously incorrect, or misleading advertisements.
- Bundle deals, gift-with-purchase promotions, or free add-ons.
- Purchases combined with coupons, loyalty points, or additional discounts.


Our Commitment

Our goal is simple — give you the best price from a trusted source, with the confidence of proper manufacturer support, full warranty coverage, and professional service. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t expect you to either.


Download a copy here

Return and Exchange Policy

Southern Maryland Divers, LLC Return & Exchange Policy


We want you to love your gear. If something isn’t right, we’ll make it right—within reason and within water.


Return Window

Refunds: Within 30 days of delivery.

Store Credit/Exchange: Within 60 days of delivery.

After 60 days, returns aren’t accepted.


Condition Requirements

Returned items must be new, unused, and in original packaging with all tags, manuals, and accessories included.

Any item that has been in the water, worn, or activated (computers, cameras, housings, regulators, etc.) cannot be returned for safety reasons.


Non-Returnable Items

To keep everyone safe and policies fair, the following are final sale:
- Special orders or custom gear
- Clearance and discounted items
- Gift cards and e-gift cards
- Training courses and travel packages (see below)
- Opened software, media, E-learning codes, or downloads


Training & Travel

Courses: Cancellations made 7+ days before class receive full credit toward another class. Cancellations within 7 days or no-shows are non-refundable.

Trips: Deposits are non-refundable unless the trip is canceled by SoMd Divers or our partner operator. Specifics on cancelation / deposit refund dates can be found on the trip / travel website listing


How to Return

1. Make sure your item qualifies under the rules above.
2. Email info@somddivers.com with your request and proof of conditions being met
3. Ship the item back using your preferred carrier or optionally, return to the shop during shop hours.
 - You are responsible for return shipping.
 - Original shipping costs are not refunded.
 - If your order qualified for free shipping, the actual shipping cost will be deducted from the refund.
4. Once received and inspected, we’ll process your refund or credit within 5–7 business days.


Defective or Incorrect Items

If you receive a defective product or the wrong item, contact us within 7 days of delivery. We’ll arrange an exchange or replacement at no cost to you.


Manufacturer Warranties

Most products are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. We’re happy to help facilitate warranty claims, but coverage terms are determined by the manufacturer.


Holiday Returns

Purchases made between November 15 and December 31 may be returned until January 15 of the following year under the same conditions.


Download a copy here

Southern Maryland Divers, LLC Special Order and Equipment Pickup Policies

Special Order Items

Certain products are not normally stocked and must be ordered directly from the manufacturer or distributor. These are considered Special Order items. To keep our operations efficient and pricing fair, the following terms apply:

- Payment in full is required before placing any special order.
- Special order items are final sale and cannot be canceled, exchanged, or refunded once ordered.
- Estimated delivery times are provided as a courtesy but cannot be guaranteed due to manufacturer lead times.
- If an exception is approved for return, a 20% restocking fee will apply, and the item must be new, unused, and in original packaging and meet all conditions set in our refund policy.
- All manufacturer warranties apply to special orders, and we’ll assist in warranty claims as needed.


Repaired Equipment Pickup & Storage

We take pride in maintaining your equipment safely and professionally. Once service is completed, we’ll contact you by email to notify you that your gear is ready for pickup. It is the sole responsibility of the customer to ensure that they have a valid and functioning email on file with us and that they check their email frequently.

- Equipment must be picked up within 30 days of notification.
- After 30 days, a storage fee of $1 per day will be applied.
- After 120 days, unclaimed equipment will be considered abandoned and may be sold or disposed of to recover service and storage costs.
- A diagnostic or bench fee applies to all repairs, even if you decline the service after inspection.
- Estimates provided are valid for 7 days; work begins only after approval.

By leaving equipment for service, you acknowledge these terms. Our goal is to ensure every diver gets safe, reliable gear returned on time—and that our workspace stays organized and efficient.


Download a copy here

SoMd Divers Equipment Rental Policy

We’re committed to providing well-maintained, reliable gear so you can focus on your dive. Renting from SoMd Divers means you agree to follow the same safety and care standards we use every day in our own diving operations.


Eligibility & Requirements

- A valid photo ID and credit card are required for all rentals.
- Divers must present a valid certification card for life-support equipment (regulators, BCDs, tanks, etc.).
- Nitrox and drysuit rentals require proof of corresponding specialty certification.
- Renters must be 18 years of age or older or accompanied by a certified parent or guardian.


Rental Periods & Rates

- Standard rental rates are based on a 24-hour period.
- Free pickup is available after 3:00 PM the day before your rental.
- Gear must be returned by 12:00 PM (noon) the following day.
- Weekend rentals (Thursday/Friday pickup, Monday return) are billed at the two-day rate.
- Late returns are charged an additional daily rate per item.

Equipment Care & Responsibilities

- All rental gear must be rinsed and clean upon return. A $25 cleaning fee may apply for excessively dirty or salt-encrusted gear.
- You are responsible for the replacement or repair cost of any lost, damaged, or neglected equipment.
- A list of replacement values is available at the counter for reference.
- No refunds are provided for unused rental equipment once it has left the shop.


Tank Rentals

- All tanks must be returned with at least 300 PSI of reserve pressure.
- Nitrox tanks will only be rented to divers with current Nitrox certification.
- Tanks returned empty or damaged will incur a valve inspection and refill fee, or replacement cost if applicable.


Reservations & Deposits

- Gear reservations may require prepayment or a credit card hold during peak seasons.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before pickup, a one-day rental fee will be charged.
- Equipment not picked up within 24 hours of reservation time may be released to other customers.


Waiver & Liability

All renters must sign a rental liability waiver and assumption of risk form before equipment is released. This agreement confirms that you are a certified diver using the gear within your training limits, and that SoMd Divers is not responsible for misuse or unsafe operation.


By renting from SoMd Divers, you agree to these terms and accept full responsibility for the care and timely return of the equipment. We appreciate your respect for the gear, and for the professionalism that keeps our dive community safe and well-equipped.


Download a copy here

Southern Maryland Divers, LLC Layaway Policy

Our layaway program is designed to help divers get the gear they want without financial pressure. It’s simple, interest-free, and keeps your chosen equipment reserved until you’re ready to take it home.


Program Terms

- **Deposit:** A minimum **20% down payment** is required to place an item on layaway.
- **Payment Period:** The balance must be paid in full within **90 days** of the initial deposit.
- **Payment Schedule:** Payments can be made **bi-weekly or monthly** in-store, online, or over the phone.
- **Interest-Free:** There is **no interest or finance charge** on layaway purchases.
- **Pickup:** Merchandise will be released only after the final payment has been received in full.


Cancellations & Defaults

- If a layaway order is **canceled or unpaid** after 90 days, the item(s) will be returned to inventory.
- A **15% cancellation or restocking fee** will be deducted from your payments.
- Remaining funds will be issued as **store credit only**; no cash refunds are provided for canceled layaway orders.


Eligibility & Exclusions

- Layaway is available for **most regularly stocked items** over **$200**.
- **Special orders, clearance, and custom items** are **not eligible** for layaway.
- Layaway purchases **cannot be combined** with coupons, discounts, or price matches unless approved by management.


Payment Options & Alternatives

We accept payments by **credit card, debit card, Zelle, cash, or check**.


Important Notes

- Layaway payments are **non-transferable** and apply only to the original order.
- SoMd Divers reserves the right to modify or discontinue the layaway program at any time.
- By starting a layaway plan, you agree to these terms and acknowledge responsibility for completing payment within the agreed period.


We’re here to make diving accessible and stress-free — so you can focus on your next adventure, not your next payment.


Download a copy here

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1st, 2010


1. Introduction

Welcome to Southern Maryland Divers, LLC (“we,” “our,” “us”). We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your data when you visit our website [https://www.somddivers.com] or interact with us for classes, events, or dive services.

By using our website or booking services, you agree to this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of our website and services.


2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

  • Personal Information: Name, email, phone number, emergency contact details, dive certifications, billing/shipping information, and any data you provide when booking classes, filling out waivers, or contacting us.
  • Usage Data: IP address, browser type, pages visited, time spent on our site, and other analytical data collected through cookies and analytics tools.
  • Transaction Data: Payment details (processed securely through third-party providers — we do not store full credit card numbers).
  • Health & Safety Data: Relevant medical or dive history details you voluntarily provide for training and trip participation (used strictly for safety and course requirements).


3. How We Use Your Information

We use your data to:

  • Register you for scuba classes, events, and trips
  • Process payments and send receipts
  • Maintain dive logs, certification records, and waivers as required by PADI standards
  • Communicate important updates about bookings, trip logistics, or class schedules
  • Send marketing emails and newsletters (you can opt out anytime)
  • Improve our website and services through analytics


4. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your data. We may share it only with:

  • Training Agencies: PADI or other certifying agencies to process certifications
  • Service Providers: Payment processors, website hosting, email marketing platforms, and booking software providers
  • Travel Partners: For dive trips where your name and certification level are needed for reservations
  • Legal Compliance: If required by law or to protect our rights and safety


5. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies to enhance your experience and analyze site usage. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but this may limit some functionality of our site.


6. Data Security

We implement reasonable security measures to protect your personal information. However, no method of internet transmission or storage is 100% secure, so we cannot guarantee absolute security.


7. Your Rights

You may have the right to:

  • Access, update, or delete your personal data
  • Request a copy of your records (e.g., signed waivers or certification data)
  • Opt out of marketing communications

To exercise these rights, email us at info@somddivers.com.


8. Third-Party Links

Our site may include links to third-party websites (e.g., PADI, travel partners). We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these external sites.


9. Data Retention

We retain records for as long as necessary to provide services, maintain dive training compliance, and meet legal obligations.


10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy periodically. Changes will be posted here with the updated effective date.


11. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, contact us at:

Southern Maryland Divers, LLC
Email: info@somddivers.com
Phone: [Insert Phone Number]
Website: https://www.somddivers.com

AIR FILL POLICY

You must provide documentation that you are a certified diver in order to fill a SCUBA cylinder. Additional certifications are required for Nitrox.

By law, a Department of Transportation (DOT) required hydrostatic test expires five years (60 months) following the test and the annual VIS’s expire one year (12 months) following the inspection. DOT has issued a clarification statement that the hydrostatic test officially expires on the last day of the month shown. Southern Maryland Divers, LLC will not fill any cylinder after the last day of the month in which the visual inspection or hydrostatic test expired.


Paint ball tanks will be filled only if they marked with a “Paintball Use Only” sticker.


We perform a cursory examination of each cylinder before it is filled. We require an interior inspection whenever we encounter a cylinder with: Leaks, rattles, sloshes, or other unusual noises, abnormal weight, empty tanks, foul-smelling contents.


Regardless of what appears to be a valid evidence of inspection sticker or hydrostatic test stamp, we consider some cylinders unsafe to fill. Southern Maryland Divers, LLC will not fill any cylinder with:

  • Unrecognised VIS stickers which do not identify the inspector.
    Tapered neck threads, these are very old.
  • Heavy corrosion
  • Exterior damage, such as a dent, gouge, bulge, or deep pit
  • Vinyl or other unusual or unrecognized coatings and paints
  • Valve using a lead plug overpressure burst disk
  • Southern Maryland Divers, LLC Reserves the right to not fill any tank they deem unsafe.

Southern Maryland Divers, LLC does not overfill any cylinder. Overfilling cylinder increases risk of cylinder failure. Increased pressures also can cause burst disks, O-rings, and can damage 1st stage regulator seats.


An independent laboratory TRACE Analytics https://www.airchecklab.com/ is used to ensure that Southern Maryland Divers, LLC's Air and Nitrox meet CGA standards for carbon monoxide, methane, moisture, oil, particulates, and odor.  Our compressor incorporates filter systems that allow us to produce and store gases that meet both the Oxygen Compat. Air-2003 (I) and CGA G-7.1-2018 Grade E(1) compressed breathing air/gas standards.

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