Ownership of deliverables clause: Copy, customize, and use instantly
Introduction
An ownership of deliverables clause clarifies who retains rights to the work products or deliverables created under an agreement. This clause is essential to define intellectual property rights, avoid disputes, and ensure alignment with the parties’ expectations. It is widely used in service contracts, consulting agreements, and collaborative projects.
Below are ownership of deliverables clause templates tailored to various scenarios. Copy the one you need, customize it, and add it to your contract.
Standard ownership of deliverables clause
This clause establishes default ownership rights.
All deliverables created by the [service provider/contractor] under this agreement shall be the sole property of the [client/buyer] upon full payment. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights, title, or interest in the deliverables, except as otherwise provided in this agreement.
Joint ownership of deliverables clause
This clause creates shared ownership rights.
The deliverables created under this agreement shall be jointly owned by the [client] and the [service provider]. Each party retains an undivided interest in the deliverables and may use, modify, or license them independently unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Contractor-retained ownership clause
This clause allows the contractor to retain ownership.
The [service provider/contractor] retains all rights, title, and interest in the deliverables created under this agreement. The [client] is granted a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use the deliverables for the purposes outlined in this agreement.
Assignment-based ownership clause
This clause assigns ownership upon delivery or payment.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement shall automatically transfer to the [client] upon completion and delivery of the work and receipt of full payment. The [service provider/contractor] agrees to execute any documents necessary to effectuate this transfer.
Industry-specific ownership clause
This clause customizes ownership for specific industries.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement, including [industry-specific examples, e.g., "design files or software code"], shall belong to the [client]. The [service provider] may retain rights to underlying methodologies or tools used in the creation of the deliverables.
Perpetual license ownership clause
This clause grants perpetual usage rights without transfer.
The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of the deliverables but grants the [client] a perpetual, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, modify, and distribute the deliverables for the purposes outlined in this agreement.
Work-for-hire ownership clause
This clause defines deliverables as work-for-hire.
All deliverables created under this agreement are deemed “work-for-hire” and are the sole property of the [client] upon creation. The [service provider/contractor] waives any claims to ownership or usage rights unless explicitly stated in this agreement.
Open-source ownership clause
This clause addresses ownership when using open-source components.
Ownership of deliverables created under this agreement shall reside with the [client], except for any open-source components integrated into the deliverables. Such components remain subject to their respective licenses and terms of use.
Derivative works ownership clause
This clause clarifies ownership of derivative works.
The [client] shall own all deliverables created under this agreement, including any derivative works based on the [client]’s existing intellectual property. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to these derivative works unless explicitly authorized.
Conditional ownership of deliverables clause
This clause ties ownership to specific conditions.
Ownership of deliverables under this agreement shall transfer to the [client] only upon fulfillment of [specific conditions, e.g., "milestone completion or regulatory approval"]. Until such conditions are met, ownership remains with the [service provider/contractor].
Pre-existing materials ownership clause
This clause addresses ownership of pre-existing materials.
The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any pre-existing materials incorporated into the deliverables. The [client] is granted a license to use these materials solely as part of the deliverables and for the purposes outlined in this agreement.
Government contract ownership clause
This clause applies to government-related agreements.
Ownership of deliverables created under this agreement shall reside with the [government agency], in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The [contractor] may retain usage rights only if explicitly permitted by the agency.
Proprietary tools ownership clause
This clause clarifies ownership of proprietary tools.
The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of proprietary tools, templates, or software used to create the deliverables. The [client] owns the final deliverables but is not granted rights to the proprietary tools unless explicitly agreed.
Exclusive ownership of deliverables clause
This clause grants exclusive ownership to one party.
The [client] shall have exclusive ownership of all deliverables created under this agreement, including any intellectual property rights associated with them. The [service provider/contractor] waives all claims to usage or reproduction of the deliverables.
Milestone-based ownership clause
This clause ties ownership transfer to project milestones.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement will transfer to the [client] upon successful completion of each milestone as outlined in [insert section]. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership until the corresponding milestone payment is received.
Exclusive client ownership clause
This clause ensures ownership resides solely with the client.
All deliverables created under this agreement shall be the exclusive property of the [client], including any associated intellectual property rights. The [service provider/contractor] shall have no claim to use, modify, or distribute the deliverables.
Customization-based ownership clause
This clause defines ownership for customized deliverables.
Ownership of the customized deliverables created under this agreement shall reside with the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of standard templates or tools used in the customization process, unless otherwise agreed.
Term-limited ownership clause
This clause grants ownership for a specific period.
The [client] shall have exclusive ownership rights to the deliverables for a term of [insert duration]. After this term, ownership will revert to the [service provider/contractor], unless extended by mutual agreement.
Non-transferable ownership clause
This clause restricts ownership transferability.
Ownership of deliverables created under this agreement resides with the [client], but such ownership is non-transferable and may not be sold, licensed, or assigned to third parties without prior written consent from the [service provider/contractor].
Usage-specific ownership clause
This clause restricts ownership to specific uses.
The [client] shall own the deliverables created under this agreement for the specific purpose outlined in [insert section]. Ownership does not extend to uses outside the agreed-upon scope without additional permissions from the [service provider/contractor].
Revocable ownership clause
This clause allows revocation of ownership under certain conditions.
Ownership of the deliverables will transfer to the [client] upon payment. However, if the [client] breaches the terms of this agreement, the [service provider/contractor] retains the right to revoke ownership and reclaim the deliverables.
Shared IP ownership clause
This clause splits ownership of intellectual property rights.
The [client] will own the deliverables created under this agreement, but the [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any underlying intellectual property embedded within the deliverables. Use of such IP by the [client] is limited to the scope of this agreement.
Geographic-specific ownership clause
This clause restricts ownership to a particular jurisdiction.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement resides with the [client] within the jurisdiction of [insert country/region]. Outside this jurisdiction, ownership or usage must be negotiated separately with the [service provider/contractor].
Residual rights ownership clause
This clause allows the contractor to retain residual rights.
The [client] will own the deliverables created under this agreement. However, the [service provider/contractor] retains the right to use non-client-specific elements of the deliverables for future projects or internal purposes.
Escrow-based ownership clause
This clause places deliverables in escrow pending ownership transfer.
Ownership of the deliverables will transfer to the [client] upon meeting all payment and delivery conditions. Until such conditions are satisfied, the deliverables will remain in escrow and cannot be used or modified by either party.
Ownership of draft deliverables clause
This clause addresses ownership of draft or preliminary work.
Ownership of draft or preliminary deliverables shall remain with the [service provider/contractor] until final approval and payment by the [client]. Upon approval, ownership of the final deliverables will transfer to the [client].
Royalty-based ownership clause
This clause ties ownership to royalty payments.
The [client] will own the deliverables created under this agreement but agrees to pay ongoing royalties to the [service provider/contractor] for specific uses of the deliverables as outlined in [insert section].
Product development ownership clause
This clause ensures ownership for product development deliverables.
Ownership of all deliverables related to product development, including prototypes and final designs, shall reside with the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to reproduce or distribute these deliverables.
Confidential materials ownership clause
This clause governs ownership of confidential deliverables.
Ownership of the deliverables containing confidential or proprietary information of the [client] shall remain solely with the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] agrees not to retain copies or use such deliverables for any purpose outside this agreement.
Licensing-based ownership clause
This clause ties ownership to a licensing framework.
Ownership of the deliverables remains with the [service provider/contractor]. The [client] is granted a perpetual, non-exclusive license to use the deliverables solely for purposes outlined in this agreement. Any additional uses require a separate licensing agreement.
Proprietary method ownership clause
This clause ensures ownership of proprietary methods used in deliverables.
The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any proprietary methods, tools, or processes used to create the deliverables. The [client] owns the final deliverables but does not acquire rights to the proprietary methods unless explicitly agreed upon.
Non-exclusive ownership clause
This clause grants shared ownership rights.
The [client] shall own the deliverables created under this agreement for their exclusive use. However, the [service provider/contractor] retains the right to reuse non-client-specific components of the deliverables in other projects.
Revenue-sharing ownership clause
This clause ties ownership to revenue-sharing arrangements.
Ownership of the deliverables resides with the [service provider/contractor]. The [client] receives usage rights and agrees to share a percentage of revenue generated from the deliverables as outlined in [insert section].
Ownership with indemnity clause
This clause includes indemnity provisions for ownership disputes.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon payment. The [service provider/contractor] indemnifies the [client] against any third-party claims arising from the use or ownership of the deliverables.
Conditional transfer of ownership clause
This clause makes ownership conditional on specific actions.
Ownership of the deliverables shall transfer to the [client] only upon completion of [specific actions, e.g., "regulatory approval or client acceptance testing"]. Until such conditions are met, ownership remains with the [service provider/contractor].
Pre-agreed termination ownership clause
This clause addresses ownership upon contract termination.
If this agreement is terminated prior to completion, ownership of any partially completed deliverables will remain with the [service provider/contractor], unless the [client] compensates for all completed work up to the termination date.
Ownership for commissioned art clause
This clause applies to artistic or creative projects.
Ownership of the commissioned artwork or creative deliverables shall transfer to the [client] upon full payment. The [service provider/artist] retains the right to include the work in their portfolio or promotional materials, unless otherwise agreed.
Outsourced deliverables ownership clause
This clause clarifies ownership when outsourcing is involved.
The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of outsourced deliverables created by third parties. The [client] receives a license to use such deliverables exclusively for purposes outlined in this agreement.
Ownership with expiration clause
This clause sets a time limit for ownership.
Ownership of the deliverables will revert to the [service provider/contractor] after [specific duration] unless the [client] continues to comply with the terms of this agreement, including ongoing payments or licensing fees.
Collaborative ownership clause
This clause applies to jointly created deliverables.
Deliverables jointly created under this agreement will be co-owned by the [client] and the [service provider/contractor]. Both parties must mutually agree on any modifications, licensing, or distribution of the deliverables.
Marketing materials ownership clause
This clause governs ownership of marketing deliverables.
Ownership of marketing deliverables, including designs and copywriting, resides with the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to reuse these materials for other projects without the [client]’s consent.
Ownership with warranty clause
This clause ties ownership to a warranty.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon delivery and payment. The [service provider/contractor] warrants that the deliverables are free of third-party claims and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
IP retention ownership clause
This clause allows retention of specific intellectual property.
While the [client] owns the deliverables, the [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any pre-existing intellectual property incorporated into the deliverables. The [client] receives a license to use this IP solely as part of the deliverables.
Future enhancements ownership clause
This clause defines ownership of future updates.
Ownership of the deliverables resides with the [client]. However, any future enhancements or updates made by the [service provider/contractor] will remain the [service provider/contractor]’s property unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Exclusive commercial ownership clause
This clause grants exclusive commercial rights.
The [client] shall own the deliverables and all associated commercial rights. The [service provider/contractor] agrees not to produce similar deliverables for competitors of the [client] during the term of this agreement.
Ownership with confidentiality clause
This clause ensures confidentiality of the deliverables.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon payment. The [service provider/contractor] agrees to maintain confidentiality regarding the deliverables and not disclose any details to third parties without the [client]’s approval.
Ownership for digital platforms clause
This clause applies to deliverables created for digital use.
Ownership of the deliverables created for digital platforms, including websites or mobile applications, shall transfer to the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to modify or use these deliverables without prior consent.
Ownership with dispute resolution clause
This clause includes provisions for ownership disputes.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon delivery and payment. Any disputes regarding ownership or usage rights will be resolved through mediation or arbitration as outlined in [insert section].
Deferred ownership transfer clause
This clause postpones ownership transfer until a specific date.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement will transfer to the [client] on [insert specific date] or upon the completion of [specific condition]. Until then, ownership remains with the [service provider/contractor].
Deliverables reuse restriction clause
This clause limits the reuse of deliverables.
The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to reuse, repurpose, or redistribute the deliverables created under this agreement. Ownership and all associated rights are transferred exclusively to the [client] upon delivery and payment.
Ownership with indemnification clause
This clause indemnifies the client for ownership-related claims.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon payment. The [service provider/contractor] indemnifies the [client] against any claims or disputes related to the deliverables’ ownership or creation.
Maintenance-linked ownership clause
This clause ties ownership to ongoing maintenance.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon payment, but the [client] must engage the [service provider/contractor] for ongoing maintenance as a condition of ownership. Failure to do so may result in the suspension of certain usage rights.
Ownership for embedded software clause
This clause applies to software embedded in deliverables.
The [client] owns the deliverables, including any hardware or designs, but the [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of the embedded software. The [client] is granted a perpetual license to use the software as part of the deliverables.
Ownership for iterative deliverables clause
This clause applies to projects with iterative deliverables.
Ownership of each deliverable will transfer to the [client] upon approval and payment for that specific iteration. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of unapproved or unpaid iterations until payment is received.
Intellectual property waiver clause
This clause waives all intellectual property claims by the contractor.
The [service provider/contractor] agrees to waive any intellectual property rights associated with the deliverables created under this agreement. Ownership of the deliverables transfers entirely to the [client] upon payment.
Ownership for multi-party collaborations clause
This clause defines ownership in multi-party projects.
In multi-party collaborations, the deliverables will be co-owned by the [client] and other participating parties. Ownership rights and usage limitations for each party will be detailed in a separate addendum to this agreement.
Ownership for proprietary algorithms clause
This clause applies to deliverables involving algorithms.
The [client] owns the deliverables created under this agreement. However, the [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any proprietary algorithms used within the deliverables, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Ownership for physical prototypes clause
This clause applies to physical prototype deliverables.
The [client] owns all physical prototypes created under this agreement. The [service provider/contractor] retains no ownership rights to the prototypes, except for internal research and development purposes, as permitted by the [client].
Custom license ownership clause
This clause provides a customized licensing framework.
Ownership of the deliverables remains with the [service provider/contractor]. The [client] is granted a customized license to use, modify, and distribute the deliverables exclusively within [specific industry, region, or purpose].
Ownership with geographic limitations clause
This clause restricts ownership rights geographically.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], but the [client]’s usage rights are limited to [specific geographic region]. Usage outside this region requires prior written approval from the [service provider/contractor].
Ownership with expiration of use clause
This clause limits the duration of usage rights.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], but the usage rights expire after [specific duration]. Continued use beyond this period requires renewal of the agreement or additional licensing fees.
Ownership for confidential projects clause
This clause governs ownership in confidential projects.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement transfers to the [client] upon payment. The [service provider/contractor] agrees not to disclose the existence or nature of the deliverables to third parties without prior written consent.
Ownership for bundled services clause
This clause applies to ownership of deliverables in bundled agreements.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement transfers to the [client]. For deliverables bundled with other services, ownership rights are limited to the deliverables explicitly listed in [insert section].
Ownership with client feedback clause
This clause incorporates client feedback into ownership terms.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon approval and payment. The [client] acknowledges that ownership includes all modifications made based on their feedback during the development process.
Ownership for derivative works clause
This clause applies to derivative works created during the project.
The [client] owns all derivative works created under this agreement. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to these works, including any elements based on pre-existing intellectual property owned by the [client].
Ownership for third-party integrations clause
This clause governs ownership when third-party integrations are used.
The [client] owns the deliverables, including any third-party integrations, provided that the integrations comply with licensing agreements. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to the third-party components outside this agreement.
Ownership for digital media clause
This clause applies to digital media deliverables.
The [client] owns all digital media deliverables created under this agreement, including images, videos, and animations. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to use or modify these deliverables without the [client]’s prior approval.
Ownership with exclusivity clause
This clause grants exclusive ownership rights to the client.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement shall be exclusively transferred to the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to use, replicate, or distribute the deliverables for any other party.
Ownership for subscription-based services clause
This clause governs ownership in subscription-based agreements.
The [client] owns the deliverables created under this agreement for as long as the subscription remains active. Upon termination of the subscription, ownership rights revert to the [service provider/contractor] unless otherwise agreed.
Ownership for customizable templates clause
This clause addresses ownership of templates provided for customization.
The [client] owns the final customized deliverables created under this agreement. However, the [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of the underlying templates used to produce the deliverables.
Ownership for pre-delivery usage clause
This clause restricts usage before ownership transfer.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon payment. The [service provider/contractor] agrees not to use, distribute, or disclose the deliverables to any third party before ownership transfer.
Ownership with client branding clause
This clause ties ownership to branding requirements.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], including all branding, trademarks, and logos incorporated into the deliverables. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to use or display the client’s branding without permission.
Ownership for pilot projects clause
This clause governs ownership in pilot or trial projects.
Ownership of the deliverables created for the pilot project remains with the [service provider/contractor] unless the pilot is deemed successful, at which point ownership transfers to the [client] upon payment.
Ownership for public use deliverables clause
This clause applies to deliverables intended for public distribution.
Ownership of the deliverables created for public use, such as reports or publications, transfers to the [client] upon delivery. The [service provider/contractor] may not use these deliverables for any purpose without written consent.
Ownership for residual work clause
This clause clarifies ownership of residual or partial work.
Ownership of any residual or partially completed deliverables remains with the [service provider/contractor] unless the [client] compensates for the work completed up to that point. Fully completed deliverables transfer to the [client] upon payment.
Ownership for modular deliverables clause
This clause applies to projects with modular deliverables.
Ownership of each module transfers to the [client] upon payment and approval of that specific module. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of unapproved or unpaid modules until ownership conditions are met.
Ownership for performance-based deliverables clause
This clause ties ownership to performance metrics.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon successful achievement of performance metrics outlined in [insert section]. Failure to meet these metrics will delay ownership transfer until corrective actions are completed.
Ownership for proprietary APIs clause
This clause governs ownership when proprietary APIs are included.
The [client] owns the deliverables, including any integrations with proprietary APIs. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of the APIs themselves and grants the [client] a license to use them as part of the deliverables.
Ownership for phased projects clause
This clause addresses ownership in phased projects.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon completion of each project phase and payment for that phase. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of deliverables in incomplete phases.
Ownership for open-source deliverables clause
This clause applies to projects incorporating open-source components.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client]. Open-source components included in the deliverables remain subject to their respective licenses, and the [client] agrees to adhere to these license terms.
Ownership with termination rights clause
This clause outlines ownership rights in case of termination.
If this agreement is terminated, ownership of completed deliverables will transfer to the [client] upon payment for the work completed up to the termination date. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any unfinished work.
Ownership for limited-duration projects clause
This clause governs ownership for time-limited agreements.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon completion of the project, which must be finalized within [insert duration]. Extensions to the timeline require mutual agreement and may alter ownership terms.
Ownership with ethical compliance clause
This clause ties ownership to ethical compliance.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], provided that the deliverables comply with the ethical standards outlined in [insert section]. Non-compliance will result in the [service provider/contractor] retaining ownership until corrections are made.
Ownership for collaborative tools clause
This clause applies to deliverables involving collaborative tools.
The [client] owns the deliverables created using collaborative tools, such as shared workspaces or project management platforms. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to the tools themselves unless explicitly agreed.
Ownership for proprietary databases clause
This clause governs ownership of databases created as deliverables.
The [client] owns the deliverables, including any proprietary databases created under this agreement. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to access, modify, or use the databases without the [client]’s consent.
Ownership with dispute resolution mechanism clause
This clause includes a dispute resolution framework for ownership issues.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon delivery and payment. Any disputes regarding ownership or usage rights will be resolved through the dispute resolution process outlined in [insert section].
Ownership for research deliverables clause
This clause addresses ownership of research-based outputs.
Ownership of all research deliverables, including findings, data sets, and reports, shall transfer to the [client] upon payment. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to reuse or repurpose the research without the [client]’s explicit consent.
Ownership for design prototypes clause
This clause governs ownership of design prototypes.
The [client] owns all design prototypes created under this agreement, including drafts and final versions. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to replicate or use these prototypes for other projects.
Ownership for compliance deliverables clause
This clause applies to deliverables required for regulatory compliance.
Ownership of deliverables created to meet regulatory compliance requirements, including documentation and certifications, shall transfer to the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] agrees to assist in updating or modifying these deliverables as needed.
Ownership for outsourced development clause
This clause governs ownership of deliverables created by outsourced developers.
Ownership of all deliverables created through outsourcing efforts shall reside with the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] is responsible for ensuring all third-party contributors transfer their rights to the [client].
Ownership for content creation clause
This clause addresses ownership of created content.
The [client] owns all content created under this agreement, including written materials, images, and videos. The [service provider/contractor] may not use or distribute the content without the [client]’s prior approval.
Ownership for iterative revisions clause
This clause applies to projects with multiple revisions.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon approval of the final version. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of earlier iterations until the final deliverable is accepted and paid for.
Ownership for shared infrastructure clause
This clause addresses ownership when shared infrastructure is used.
The [client] owns the deliverables created using shared infrastructure, such as cloud-based platforms or collaborative software. Ownership does not extend to the infrastructure itself, which remains the property of the [service provider/contractor].
Ownership for milestone payments clause
This clause ties ownership transfer to milestone payments.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] progressively, aligned with the completion and payment of each milestone as outlined in [insert section]. Unpaid milestones will delay ownership transfer for corresponding deliverables.
Ownership with export restrictions clause
This clause governs ownership with export limitations.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], but the deliverables may not be exported outside [specific jurisdiction] without prior written approval from the [service provider/contractor] and compliance with applicable export regulations.
Ownership for performance guarantees clause
This clause ties ownership to performance guarantees.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon satisfaction of the performance guarantees outlined in [insert section]. The [service provider/contractor] retains ownership until these guarantees are met.
Ownership for joint funding projects clause
This clause addresses ownership in jointly funded projects.
Ownership of the deliverables created under this agreement shall be shared between the [client] and the [service provider/contractor], proportional to their respective contributions to the project’s funding.
Ownership for non-commercial deliverables clause
This clause applies to deliverables for non-commercial use.
Ownership of deliverables intended for non-commercial purposes, such as research or public awareness campaigns, shall transfer to the [client] upon completion. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to commercialize the deliverables.
Ownership for archived deliverables clause
This clause governs ownership of archived work.
Ownership of archived deliverables, including backups and previous versions, resides with the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] may not access or use these archives without the [client]’s consent.
Ownership with compliance obligations clause
This clause ties ownership to compliance with contractual obligations.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client] upon verification that all contractual obligations, including quality and delivery requirements, have been met by the [service provider/contractor].
Ownership for non-transferable IP clause
This clause ensures intellectual property remains non-transferable.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], but the [service provider/contractor] retains ownership of any underlying intellectual property. This intellectual property may not be transferred or sublicensed by the [client].
Ownership with retention period clause
This clause establishes a retention period for deliverables.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], but the [service provider/contractor] retains a copy for internal records for a retention period of [insert duration]. The copy may not be used for any other purpose.
Ownership for custom software clause
This clause governs ownership of custom-developed software.
The [client] owns the custom software deliverables created under this agreement, including source code and documentation. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to use or distribute the software without explicit permission.
Ownership for licensing deliverables clause
This clause addresses ownership of deliverables tied to licensing agreements.
Ownership of the deliverables transfers to the [client], but the [service provider/contractor] retains licensing rights to any pre-existing components included in the deliverables. These licenses must be maintained by the [client] for continued use.
Ownership for integrated systems clause
This clause governs ownership of integrated system deliverables.
Ownership of the integrated system deliverables, including hardware and software, transfers to the [client]. The [service provider/contractor] retains no rights to access or modify the system without prior authorization.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.