Registered Designs
What is a registered design?
A registered design is a registration right that protects the appearance of an article of a product.
How much does a registered design cost?
A registered design typically, if you have it done professionally would cost you a few hundred pounds for the UK. You can also register across the whole of the European Union in a community registered design, and that would typically cost you probably somewhere between 500 and 1000 pounds.
How long does a registered design last for?
An registered design lasts initially for a period of five years and then it can be renewed in 5 year blocks up to a total of 25 years.
Can I renew my registered design?
Yes, you can renew your registered design in five year blocks up to a maximum of twenty five years.
What does a registered design cover?
A registered design protects the appearance of an article. However, it doesn't protect the function of that article, for example, the way it works or the way that it's constructed.
What types of deisgn are usually covered by registered design?
All sorts of products are covered by registered designs, particularly where the appearance of the design is important. So, for example, crockery and cutlery are often protected, but also other kinds of products, and even the shape of cars.
Does a registered design give me monopoly rights?
Yes, a registered design will give you a monopoly right in the territory that you have a registered design for that article.
Should I register my design?
It's a good idea to register your design, because you don't need to show that your design was copied if you want to take action against an infringer if you have a registered design. A registered design lasts for much longer than an unregistered design, and also, you don't need to get together evidence to show that you own that design. You already have a design registration that you can use as evidence alone as proof of the design if you take action.
