Use of Company Property including Intellectual Property

A Use of Company Property including Intellectual Property policy sets clear expectations for how employees may use, protect, and return your organization's equipment, systems, and intellectual property (including confidential and proprietary materials), helping prevent misuse, loss, and unauthorized disclosure while supporting compliance with applicable state-specific rules.

How to Write an Use of Company Property including Intellectual Property Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Define what counts as your organization's property, including physical assets, digital systems, and intellectual property.
• Require employees to use and care for property responsibly and follow applicable instructions and safety standards.
• Prohibit unauthorized use, sharing, copying, or distribution of intellectual property and proprietary materials.
• Require secure storage and reasonable safeguards for devices, accounts, and confidential information, including in remote work settings.
• Require prompt reporting of lost, stolen, or damaged property.
• Require return of all property at the end of employment and prohibit continued access or use without authorization.

For advice on writing an Use of Company Property including Intellectual Property policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.