Introduction
In the world of flooring and interior design, first impressions matter. Whether it’s polished vinyl, elegant carpets, or eco-friendly tiles, your brand name plays a major role in how customers perceive your products. But as competition grows, protecting that brand becomes more important than ever.
That’s where Trademark Class 27 comes in.
If you own a flooring startup or a small manufacturing unit dealing with carpets, rugs, mats, vinyl, or linoleum coverings, you fall under Trademark Class 27—the category that protects non-textile floor and wall coverings.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about filing a trademark in Class 27, including its importance, process, documents required, costs, and key tips for startups.
What Is Trademark Class 27?
Trademark Class 27 is part of the Nice Classification System, an international framework that organizes trademarks into 45 different classes.
This class covers all products used for floor and wall coverings, including:
- Carpets and Rugs
- Mats and Matting
- Linoleum and Vinyl Flooring
- Artificial Turf
- Wall Hangings (Non-textile)
If your startup manufactures, sells, or markets flooring materials or decorative surface products, Class 27 is the category you should file under.
Why Flooring Startups Need a Trademark
When launching a new flooring business, most entrepreneurs focus on design, manufacturing, or marketing—but forget the legal backbone that ensures brand security. A trademark is not just a logo—it’s your brand identity, trust, and recognition in the market.
Here’s why registering your brand in Class 27 is crucial for flooring startups:
1. Prevents Brand Theft
Flooring is a competitive sector, and successful designs or brand names are often copied. Trademark registration gives you exclusive rights to use your brand name or logo and take legal action against infringers.
2. Builds Credibility and Trust
A registered trademark increases your brand’s professional image, helping customers feel more confident buying your flooring products.
3. Helps With Online and Export Growth
If you plan to sell through e-commerce platforms or export flooring materials, having a trademark simplifies brand verification and protection internationally.
4. Boosts Long-Term Value
Your trademark is a valuable intellectual property asset that can increase the business’s valuation, attract investors, or help in future franchising.
Examples of Products Covered Under Class 27
Before filing, make sure your products fall within the scope of Class 27.
Here are examples of goods typically included:
| Category | Examples of Products |
|---|---|
| Carpets & Rugs | Handmade carpets, machine-made rugs, wool carpets, synthetic rugs |
| Mats & Matting | Coir mats, door mats, yoga mats, anti-slip mats |
| Flooring Materials | Vinyl tiles, linoleum sheets, PVC flooring |
| Artificial Turf | Synthetic grass for indoor and outdoor use |
| Wall Hangings (Non-Textile) | Decorative wall coverings made of non-fabric materials |
If your product fits any of these, Trademark Class 27 is the correct choice for your flooring startup.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Trademark in Class 27
Let’s now go through the entire process of trademark registration in India, specifically tailored for flooring and interior startups.
Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search
Before filing, it’s essential to ensure your desired brand name or logo isn’t already taken.
- Visit the IP India Trademark Search Portal (https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/tmrpublicsearch/frmmain.aspx).
- Enter your proposed brand name and select Class 27.
- Review existing trademarks to ensure your name or logo is unique and doesn’t create confusion.
💡 Pro Tip: Choose a name that’s distinctive—avoid using generic terms like “Best Carpets” or “Floor India.” Unique names are easier to protect legally.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Trademark Type
Depending on your business, you can register:
- Word Mark: Protects the name itself (e.g., FloorLux).
- Logo Mark: Protects your brand logo or symbol.
- Combination Mark: Covers both name and logo together.
- Series Mark: Useful if you plan to launch multiple sub-brands under one parent name.
For startups, a Combination Mark is usually the best option, offering wider protection.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
You’ll need the following documents to apply for trademark registration:
For Individuals / Sole Proprietors:
- Applicant’s name, address, and contact details
- Logo (if applicable)
- Identity proof (PAN/Aadhaar)
- Address proof
- Signed Power of Attorney (Form TM-48)
For Companies / LLPs / Partnerships:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Company’s address proof
- Brand logo (optional)
- Details of directors/partners
- Power of Attorney (Form TM-48)
Step 4: File the Trademark Application
You can file your trademark online via the official IP India portal using Form TM-A.
The application requires you to:
- Select Class 27 for flooring products
- Enter your brand name, description, and applicant details
- Upload your logo (if applicable)
- Pay the government fee
💰 Government Fees:
- ₹4,500 for individuals/startups
- ₹9,000 for companies or entities per class
Once submitted, you’ll receive an application number, which can be used to track your status online.
Step 5: Examination by Trademark Office
After filing, your application is examined by a trademark officer. They check for:
- Similar or conflicting trademarks
- Compliance with laws and formatting
- Possible objections or clarifications
If there are no issues, your mark moves forward to the publication stage.
Step 6: Reply to Trademark Objections (if any)
If the examiner raises an objection (under Section 9 or 11 of the Trademark Act), you’ll receive an Examination Report.
You must respond within 30 days, clarifying your brand’s uniqueness.
💡 Example: If your flooring startup’s name “EcoVinyl” is objected for being descriptive, you can justify it as a coined term representing eco-friendly vinyl products.
Step 7: Publication in Trademark Journal
If the objection is cleared, your trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for 4 months.
During this period, the public can oppose your mark if they believe it conflicts with their own.
If no opposition arises, your application proceeds to registration.
Step 8: Trademark Registration Certificate
Once approved, you’ll receive your Trademark Registration Certificate, valid for 10 years from the filing date.
You can use the ® symbol next to your brand name—officially marking it as your registered intellectual property.
Trademark Renewal for Flooring Startups
Your trademark protection doesn’t end after registration. You must renew it every 10 years using Form TM-R.
The renewal fee is:
- ₹9,000 (online filing) or ₹10,000 (offline filing) per class.
Renewing on time ensures continuous protection for your flooring brand without interruption.
Common Mistakes Flooring Startups Should Avoid
Many new businesses unknowingly make errors during filing that can delay or jeopardize registration. Avoid these pitfalls:
- ❌ Filing without checking for existing trademarks
- ❌ Choosing a name too similar to another brand
- ❌ Missing deadlines for objection or renewal
- ❌ Registering in the wrong class (like Class 19 instead of 27)
- ❌ Not hiring a professional for proper drafting and filing
Benefits of Trademark Registration for Flooring Startups
Trademark registration isn’t just a formality—it’s an investment in your brand’s future.
Here’s how it benefits your business:
1. Exclusive Ownership Rights
You gain full ownership of your brand name, logo, and design under Class 27.
2. Legal Protection
You can take legal action against anyone copying or misusing your brand identity.
3. Market Recognition
A registered trademark enhances credibility with distributors, dealers, and customers.
4. Brand Expansion
A strong brand name helps in diversifying into related product lines—like carpets, mats, or vinyl flooring.
5. Investor Confidence
Having a registered mark builds investor trust, proving that your brand is legitimate and future-ready.
Real-Life Example
Suppose you launch a flooring startup named “EcoMat Floors”, selling sustainable and anti-slip mats.
By registering your brand in Class 27, you:
- Protect your brand from copycats
- Qualify for e-commerce brand verification programs
- Build strong online visibility
- Increase brand trust among eco-conscious buyers
Within a few years, this protection helps your startup scale confidently into new cities or even global markets.
Why Choose VMK Professionals for Trademark Registration
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in helping startups and businesses protect their brand identity through expert trademark registration services.
Here’s what you get when you register with us:
✅ Free trademark search and class consultation
✅ Online filing with zero paperwork hassle
✅ Drafting and submission handled by experts
✅ Regular updates until registration approval
Whether you’re a flooring startup or an established brand, VMK Professionals ensures a smooth, error-free, and affordable registration process.
Conclusion
For flooring startups, a brand isn’t just a name—it’s the foundation of trust, quality, and market reputation. By registering your brand under Trademark Class 27, you secure your identity in the growing flooring and interior industry.
A trademark not only shields your business from imitators but also enhances your digital and commercial presence, making your brand more valuable in the long run.
So, if you’re launching your flooring business in India, don’t delay—file your trademark in Class 27 today and safeguard your brand for years to come.
Secure Your Flooring Brand With VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we help flooring startups and small businesses file trademarks quickly and affordably. Our team ensures full legal compliance and seamless processing—so you can focus on growing your brand.
📞 Contact VMK Professionals today to begin your Trademark Class 27 registration and build a legally protected flooring brand that stands out.