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Corporate Law
UK IP audit scheme
Government-backed audits to help your business identify, protect and maximise the value of its intellectual property.
110+
years of service
26+
experienced partners
400+
advisers and growing
Unlock funding to protect your ideas with a UK IP audit
What is an IP audit?
An IP audit is a structured review of your business’ intellectual property, covering what you own, how it’s protected, and any potential risks or opportunities. It’s the first step in building a stronger, more resilient commercial strategy around your brand, technology or product development.
Why does IP matter?
We regularly see innovative businesses operating without the right IP protections in place. That can mean missed commercial opportunities or exposure to legal and reputational risk. A well-executed IP audit can safeguard assets, support growth and improve investor confidence.
What does the scheme offer?
Under the UK Intellectual Property Office Scheme (UKIPO), eligible businesses receive up to £2,250 (inc. VAT) in funding towards the cost of an IP audit. Your business contributes at least £750 (inc. VAT). You’ll get:
- An initial consultation with one of our IP specialists
- A tailored written report assessing your IP assets, protections and gaps
- A follow-up call to talk through the findings and next steps
At Tees, our advice is tailored to your business goals and industry sector.
"There is a depth of knowledge in the team, with a variety of specialist practitioners.
" Legal 500 2027
Unlock government funding to assess and protect your intellectual property (IP)
Through the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), eligible businesses can receive funding for a comprehensive IP audit – helping you understand, secure and make the most of your valuable ideas and innovations.
Who is eligible
You could qualify if your business is classed as micro, small or medium-sized under UK Government definitions:
Size Max. turnover Max. balance sheet Max. headcount
Micro £632,000 £316,000 10
Small £10.2m £5.1m 50
Medium £36m £18m 250
You must also be registered with one of the UK’s regional business development agencies—listed below—and you don’t need to already hold any registered IP to apply.
How to apply
To start the process, contact your regional partner:
- England: Innovate UK Business Growth
- Scotland:
- Scottish Enterprise
- Highlands and Islands — General Enquiries
- South of Scotland — South of Scotland Enterprise
- Northern Ireland: Invest NI
- Wales: Welsh Government or visit Business Wales
If you're approved- or not
If your application is successful, Tees can deliver your IP audit as your nominated IP professional. We’ll provide clear, commercially focused insights to help you protect and grow your IP assets.
If you’re not eligible or funding is unavailable, we can still help. We offer bespoke IP reviews to give you practical recommendations on improving protection and unlocking commercial value.
We have offices across Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire, but we can help you wherever you are in England and Wales.
Key people
Get in touch
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Alternatively, you can call us now.
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Office Hours
Mon–Fri: 9:00am – 5:30pm
Tees Law does not provide Legal Aid. You can find more information here about Legal Aid and eligibility requirements.
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What our clients say
★★★★★
“Very efficient organsation, excellent and timely communication at each stage of the work. Clear information about processes and costing. Legal language explained clearly in layman’s terms.”
Legal 500 2027
Firm wide quote
★★★★★
“The team at Tees is fantastic: knowledgeable, technically skilled, commercially astute, and always goes the extra mile for their clients. They know how to prepare a case and provide commercial and legal advice that is exceptional.”
Legal 500 2027
Firm wide quote
★★★★★
“Very competent and professional. Explained things clearly and gave sound advice and recommendations. Strong communication – responsive and timely.”
Legal 500 2027
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Frequently asked questions
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