Are architectural drawings intellectual property?

Architectural ideas are intellectual property just as much as a novel is the intellectual property of its author. … There are two IP protections architects could apply to their work: a copyright and a trademark.

Who owns copyright in architectural drawings?

Under the default ownership rules, with respect to a copyright in a set of architectural plans, the copyright will be owned by the individual that actually created the plans. And, if two architects worked together to create the plans, then the copyright to the plans will be owned jointly by both architects.

Are design drawings intellectual property?

For architects, your design idea’s not your intellectual property. Your plans, drawings – even simple sketches – are. Here are some things you can do to stop it being stolen.

Are architectural drawings public domain?

Some are in the public domain, which means they are not copyrighted and can be freely used for commercial, personal or educational purposes. … Artsy – More than 25,000 images of Art and Architecture are in the public domain and downloadable.

Do I own my architect’s drawings?

The architect who draws the architectural plans is the first owner of copyright in the plans and the building created from them, unless there is agreement to the contrary or they were created during the course of employment.

Can a builder draw plans?

A building designer or architect can draw up plans for your house or renovation. Your builder may also draw up plans for your house. … You should discuss your plans with your building designer or architect during the design stage to ensure all parties are clear about the building work to be done.

How much do architects charge to draw up plans?

How Much Does an Architect Cost to Draw Plans? You’ll pay anywhere from $2,500 to $8,000 for plans alone. This typically doesn’t include any add on services like extra revisions, project management services or any type of construction help.

What are the three requirements for something to be copyrighted?

What are the requirements for material to be copyright?

• there must be an expression of ideas in a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work, or in subject matter other than works, such as in an audio-visual performance.
• the work must be original.
• the work must be recorded in a ‘material form’, for example.

How long does an architect have to keep drawings?

On the theory that your documents would prove more helpful than harmful, it would be a good idea to keep key project documents for between 4 and 7 years after substantial completion.

Is it illegal to copy a logo?

Logos can be copyrighted if the design is highly and uniquely creative. Because a copyright can only be used for specific artistic logos, many logo owners seek a trademark, which protects business names, slogans, and other business identifiers. Both a copyright and a trademark can cover a logo.

Can you sue someone for using your design?

1. Copyright Infringement Lawsuit. … Once your work or design has been registered with the Copyright Office, consider filing an infringement suit against your infringer. If successful, you can recover money damages in the amount of the monetary damages to your business and brand as well as your infringer’s profits.

How can I protect my design legally?

There are several ways to protect your artifacts, designs, products, services and systems and these are: copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, design registration, utility patents, industrial design rights, trade dress. This page lists available ways to protect your designs, but for more details contact an IP lawyer.

Can I sell photos of public buildings?

Photography of landmarks, buildings, monuments

For example, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Regulation 2006 (NSW) prohibits a person from using a camera for a commercial purpose in a ‘public area’ without the Authority’s permission.

Can a house be copyrighted?

Types of Architecture that Can Be Copyrighted

Copyright protection for architectural works extends only to designs for “buildings.” To be considered a “building,” a structure must be habitable by humans and intended to be permanent and stationery. Copyrightable buildings include the following: Homes.

Are landmarks copyrighted?

Many famous landmarks and and public places are also copyrighted and still require a permission to be included in photographs.