Understanding the Legal Risks of Using Client Logos on Your Website — and How SDDS Web Design Protects Both You and Itself
Showcasing client logos on your website is common practice. It’s an effective way to build credibility and demonstrate the scope of your work. However, this practice isn’t without legal risk. Using a client’s logo—even with benign intent—can lead to inadvertent copyright infringement if proper permissions aren't in place.
Why Using Client Logos Can Be Risky
Logos are protected under copyright and often trademark law. Displaying a logo on your website without explicit permission may expose you to legal liability—potentially costly claims, takedown requests, or reputational damage.
While many businesses assume that a client’s request to feature their logo implies permission, this assumption can be dangerous. Legal safeguards are essential, especially when content is created or provided by the client.
How SDDS Web Design Addresses This Area of Risk
At SDDS Web Design, we recognise the importance of clear legal boundaries. That’s why our Terms and Conditions explicitly state that any images, logos, or content provided by clients must be either:
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Licensed, or
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Supplied with the right to use
This approach ensures that SDDS Web Design is indemnified from any infringement claims that may arise from client-supplied content.
What This Means for Our Clients
When engaging with SDDS:
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You're responsible for ensuring legal permissions. You must confirm that all logos or images you provide are either owned by you, licensed, or you have the legal authority to use them.
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We follow through professionally. Once you’ve provided the content, we incorporate it seamlessly into your site—but without exposing either party to legal risk.
The Benefits of This Approach
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Legal clarity: Our clients know exactly what’s expected—no ambiguity or assumptions.
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Smooth project delivery: With the responsibility laid out, the design process remains efficient.
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Peace of mind: You can rest assured that SDDS isn't exposing your brand—or ours—to copyright liability.
Final Thought
Featuring client logos is an effective way to build trust and brand equity. Yet, it’s vital to handle such content with care. At SDDS Web Design, our Terms and Conditions serve a dual purpose: they clarify responsibilities and enable us to focus on what we do best—creating beautiful, functional websites—without legal entanglements.