This law matters when a business creates, commissions, licenses or copies creative work. Websites, software, designs, photos, copy, videos, product drawings and marketing assets all need clear ownership and permission trails.
Main laws
United Kingdom Act
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 is the main UK statute for copyright and many design rights.
In forceUnited KingdomPlain-English guide4 practical checks
Plain-English explainers, not legal advice. Use the linked official source for section-level detail, and get advice for your situation.
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Quick read
- This law matters when a business creates, commissions, licenses or copies creative work.
- Websites, software, designs, photos, copy, videos, product drawings and marketing assets all need clear ownership and permission trails.
Likely relevant if
- Creative agencies
- Software and SaaS businesses
- Ecommerce brands
Check first
- Confirm ownership of commissioned work
- Get licences for third-party content
- Avoid copying protected material
What this means in practice
Key points
- Paying a contractor does not automatically mean the company owns everything.
- Asset libraries should show where each image, font or design came from.
- Licences need to cover the actual use, territory and duration.
When this law usually matters
Most businesses do not need to memorise the whole law. The useful starting point is to know when it is likely to affect a contract, customer journey, employee process, data flow or company decision.
Key points
- Creative agencies
- Software and SaaS businesses
- Ecommerce brands
- Businesses using contractors, designers or photographers
What to check first
Sense check
- Confirm ownership of commissioned work
- Get licences for third-party content
- Avoid copying protected material
- Keep records of assignments and usage rights
Documents and workflows to review
Key points
- Contractor agreements
- IP assignment deeds
- Licence agreements
- Brand asset register
- Website content approvals