When Should You Renew Your Class 15 Trademark? A Complete Guide for Indian Brands
Trademark registration is an essential first step for any brand, especially in the musical instruments industry—ranging from handcrafted tabla makers to developers of electronic synths. In India, trademarks under Class 15 are valid for 10 years from the date of registration. But to keep your brand legally protected, renewal isn’t just important—it’s mandatory.
This in-depth guide explores:
- Why renewal matters
- When to renew
- Renewal eligibility and consequences
- Renewal process with tips
- Strategic advantages of timely renewal
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Costs and fee structures
- Post-renewal actions
- Renewal vs maintenance strategies
- FAQs
1. Why Trademark Renewal in Class 15 Matters
A. Maintain Exclusive Rights
Without a valid trademark, your exclusive use rights lapse. This opens the door for copycats or competitors to register similar instruments or accessories under your brand.
B. Safeguard Brand Reputation
A registered trademark prevents misuse of your brand identity—protecting the reputation you’ve built among musicians and customers.
C. Prevent Third-Party Registrations
Allowing your trademark to expire risks someone else registering it, potentially blocking you from future use or expansion.
D. Support Expansion and Licensing
Renewed trademarks enhance professional credibility, which supports licensing deals, international registrations, or investor confidence.
2. Ideal Timing to Renew Your Class 15 Trademark
- Validity Period: 10 years from the date of registration
- Renewal Window: Begins 6 months before expiry and continues up to 6 months after expiry—with an additional surcharge
- Grace Period: Up to 6 months post-expiry, but renewal during this time incurs a penalty
Example:
If your trademark was registered on July 1, 2025, you must renew between January 1, 2035 and January 1, 2036 (with surcharge).
3. Who Can Renew and What If You Don’t?
Renewals may be filed by:
- The trademark owner
- A legal representative (with a valid Power of Attorney)
Consequences of missing renewal:
- Trademark is marked “expired” in the registry
- You lose exclusive ownership
- Open to third-party registrations
- Any legal claims to the mark could be compromised
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Renewal
Step 1: Check Renewal Dates
Log into the IP India portal, locate your trademark number, and note its expiry date.
Step 2: Gather Documentation
You’ll need owner details, trademark number, class, and Power of Attorney (if using an agent).
Step 3: Complete Form TM-R
This form is used for applications filed within the allowed period—online or physically.
Step 4: Submit Documentation
Include owner identification, proof of renewal eligibility, and POA (if applicable).
Step 5: Pay Government Fees
- ₹9,000 (e‑filing) for each class
- Additional ₹4,500 surcharge if filed during the grace period
Step 6: Receive Renewal Confirmation
The Indian Trademark Office issues a renewed registration certificate upon approval.
5. Benefits of Timely Renewal
- Continuous legal protection — Maintain top-line brand defense
- Marketplace authority — Reinforces trust with customers and platforms
- Business continuity — Avoid gaps in your brand’s legal coverage
- Cost-saving — Avoid paying late surcharges
- Export readiness — Clean trademark records aid international filings
6. Common Renewal Mistakes to Avoid
- Late filing — Avoid grace-period rush and penalties
- Ignoring class coverage — Remember, renewals are class-specific
- Inadequate power of attorney — Ensure POA is valid and up-to-date
- Address changes not updated — Maintain accurate contact information
- Missing reminders — Set reminders 9 months in advance
7. Renewal Costs and Fees
| Type of Applicant | Renewal Fee (e‑filing) | Late Fee (Grace Period) |
| Individual / Startup / MSME | ₹9,000 | ₹4,500 |
| Company / Partnership | ₹9,000 | ₹4,500 |
Total during grace period: ₹13,500 per class
8. What to Do After Renewal?
- Update Your Records: Store a digital copy of the renewed certificate
- Display the ® Symbol: Use in packaging, website, social media
- Inform Platforms: Notify Amazon, Flipkart, etc., to maintain brand approval
- Monitor Regularly: Keep an eye on potential imitations or misuse
9. Renewal vs. Maintenance: Proactive Brand Management
- Renewal is legal re-registration every 10 years
- Maintenance includes:
- Using the mark in commerce
- Monitoring marketplace misuse
- Conducting market audits
- Recording court or registrar action against infringement
Effective brand strategy combines both renewal and active maintenance.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I renew late?
A: Yes—within 6 months post-expiry, with a ₹4,500 late fee per class.
Q: Can someone else renew my trademark?
A: Yes—with Power of Attorney from the original owner.
Q: What happens if I miss renewal entirely?
A: Your trademark becomes “expunged” and you’ll need to reapply as a new mark, risking rejections due to prior use claims.
Q: Can I renew multiple trademarks together?
A: Yes, in a single TM-R application, but fees apply to each mark/class.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Trademark number, class details, owner contact, and POA (if filed through agent).
Final Thoughts
Timely renewal is the difference between maintaining a rock-solid brand and losing hard-earned identity. For brands under Class 15, particularly in musical instruments, renewal is not just compliance—it’s peace of mind, ensuring that the craft, quality, and credibility synonymous with your mark continue to resonate.
Need Pro Help?
VMK Professionals specializes in managing Class 15 trademark renewals and full brand protection solutions. From deadline alerts to renewal filings and post-renewal monitoring, we help you stay protected effortlessly—so you can focus on what matters most: making music.
Contact us today for an expert renewal reminder and support package!
