Can I patent an idea in the UK?

No, you cannot patent a mere idea in the UK. You can only patent an invention, product, or process that is new, involves an inventive step, and is capable of industrial application.

How do I know if my invention is patentable?

To be patentable, your invention must be new, inventive (not obvious), capable of industrial use, and make a technical contribution. Artistic works, mathematical methods, and discoveries cannot be patented.

How much does it cost to patent an invention in the UK?

Basic costs include an application fee of £60, a search fee of £150 to £180, and an examination fee of £100 to £130. Renewal fees apply from year 5 onwards.

How long does it take to get a UK patent?

The process usually takes 2 to 4 years, depending on the complexity of your invention and any objections raised during examination.

Should I hire a patent attorney?

While not legally required, it’s strongly recommended. A patent attorney can help draft your application clearly and defensibly, increasing your chances of success.

Can you help me with the patent application?

Yes. i1 Design offers professional invention help, including patent search, design development, 3D CAD modelling, and referrals to trusted patent attorneys for filing and legal support.

How to check if your invention is already patented...

Free patent search tools for inventors

Before applying for a patent in the UK or internationally, it’s essential to conduct a patent search to find out whether your invention, product idea, or technology has already been patented. This step is crucial for anyone seeking patent protection and can help avoid wasted time and legal costs later.

The good news ? You can carry out a free UK patent search or international patent search using several powerful online tools - no payment or legal help required. Just set aside an hour or two to explore these recommended databases.

PAIS – UK IPO’s Patent Application and Information Service

The UK Intellectual Property Office now provides the Patent Application and Information Service (PAIS) — a free online tool for searching and monitoring UK patent applications.

PAIS replaces the old Ipsum system, offering a modern interface and improved access to UK patent data. It allows inventors and businesses to check whether their idea has already been patented and monitor the legal status of other applications.

With PAIS, you can:

Search for UK patent applications using keywords, applicant names, dates, or classification codes
Check the status of patent applications, including examination reports and legal events
View, download, and print official documents filed with the IPO
Track published applications from 2007 onwards
Monitor competitor patents and submit observations on patentability before a grant (Section 21)

This tool is essential for any inventor wanting to research prior art, check novelty, or prepare to file a UK patent application.

Espacenet

Espacenet offers free access to over 140 million global patent documents, including data from Europe, the US, and Asia. It’s ideal for checking whether your idea has been protected in other countries.

With Espacenet, you can :

Use keyword searches in titles, abstracts, and descriptions
Search by inventor, applicant, publication number, or classification code
Review technical drawings and legal statuses
Discover similar or related patent filings worldwide

Perfect for inventors seeking international patent protection or considering a PCT application.

Patentscope

If you're looking to check whether your invention is already protected in another country or you're exploring the global patent landscape, the WIPO Patentscope database is an invaluable tool.

Operated by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), this free resource gives you access to over 52 million patent documents, including nearly 3 million published international patent applications (PCTs), as well as regional and national patent data from 38 international authorities.

WIPO’s Patentscope system offers flexible search options designed to suit beginner and advanced users alike :

Simple Search: Enter basic keywords across six fields (such as applicant name, filing date, or patent number) to generate relevant results quickly.
Advanced Search: Ideal for professionals or detailed searches, this option allows unlimited keyword combinations using Boolean logic and field codes to refine your results.
Field Combination Search: This method lets you perform highly targeted searches by focusing on specific fields such as the patent title, abstract, or technical description.

Whether you’re conducting a prior art search, researching international patent trends, or preparing to file a PCT application, Patentscope is a reliable and comprehensive resource for global patent intelligence.

Patlib - y our local patent library

If you need help searching for existing patents or understanding how to protect your invention, you can visit a Patent Library (PatLib) - formerly known as Patent Information Centres. These libraries are located in major UK cities including Aberdeen, Birmingham, Cambridge, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Northampton, Norwich, Nottingham, Plymouth, Portsmouth and Sheffield.

At a PatLib, qualified staff are available to assist you with a free basic patent search, helping you find out if your idea or technology is already patented. (Note: there may be a charge if you request printed or digital copies of specific patent documents.)

Most Patent Libraries Offer :

Expert advice on intellectual property (IP), including how to protect your invention
Free access to IPO and EPO patent databases and publications
Public internet access to search online patent databases
Document supply services (fees may apply for printing or downloads)
Commissioned novelty searches, patent alerts, and custom IP research
One-to-one business advice sessions and referrals to other professional IP services
Access to a fully-funded business support programme designed to help innovative businesses grow
Workshops, bespoke training, and events on IP and commercialisation

Patent Libraries are a valuable local resource for inventors, entrepreneurs, startups, and anyone seeking practical guidance on patenting and commercialising a new product.

How iI can help you compile and file a patent

We support inventors from idea to patent.

In collaborating with our patent partners - DF Bluem :

We will provide an honest appraisal on your project and examine patent suitability.
Make suggestions to improve the commerciality of your design and the chances of obtaining a grant.
Undertake a free patent search prior to proceeding with the application process.
Produce 3D CAD design and patent-ready drawings
Design and build prototypes to verify the commerciality of the design.
Prepare and file your UK, international patent application and pursue it through to grant.
Deal with any IPO objections and maintain and file renewals.
Advise on ways of leveraging your IP rights, including using the Patent Box.
Assist with the transfer of your legal rights to a third party.