data-storage data-ownership
Is there a legal requirement for my hosting service to provide me with a copy/backup of my content?
<p>If I have a provider hosting a forum service, and I want a copy of my forum database (actually to move to another service) is there a requirement that they must be able to provide me with my content back to me?</p>

<p>Or if not, if the content is mine, do I have the right to scrape that forum for my data?</p>

<p>(no, the forum isn't Stack Exchange, btw, and it's not even for me - the question came up in chat and we weren't sure of the answer)</p>

<p>It all comes down to the ToS you agreed to when you signed up with the host, or any changes made later.</p>

<p>If it was in your ToS it is likely that they would have a fee for the time it takes.</p>

<p>If it isn't mentioned then they would either refuse or request a fee as it does cost to have staff carryout work. </p>
