Checking trademark availability before registration saves £200-£5,000 in rejected applications and legal fees. Use official UK databases first, paid services second.
Step 1: Search UK IPO Database
Start at UK IPO's free search tool. Searches all registered and pending UK trademarks.
How to Search Effectively
Search your exact name, similar spellings, and phonetic variations. "Koffee" conflicts with "Coffee" even though spelled differently.
Step 2: Check EU Trademarks
Search EUIPO database for EU-wide trademarks that still apply to UK businesses post-Brexit.
Step 3: Use TrademarkLens
Trademark Lens checks UK IPO, EUIPO, Companies House, and domains simultaneously. Free comprehensive check in 30 seconds.
What Results Mean
Identical match in your industry = application will be rejected. Similar name in related field = high risk of opposition.
Warning: "No results" doesn't guarantee approval. UKIPO examines similarity, not just exact matches. Consult trademark attorney before filing.
When to Hire an Attorney
If you find potential conflicts or plan to invest heavily in the brand, hire a trademark attorney for a professional search (£500-£1,500).
What Attorneys Find
Common law trademarks (unregistered but legally protected), international conflicts affecting UK, and nuanced similarity issues automated tools miss.
Cost of Not Checking
Application fee: £170-£200 (lost if rejected). Opposition legal fees: £3,000-£10,000. Rebranding costs: £15,000-£50,000+ for established business.