Licensing business records sounds complicated, but the steps are straightforward. Here’s how it works with McKays, and what stays in your control throughout.
1. Tell us what you’ve got
A short description by email is enough: what the business did, roughly how many years of records there are, and where they’re kept. No files, logins or passwords are needed at this stage.
2. Free first look
We give you a straight answer on whether the records are likely to interest buyers, and why. If they’re not a fit, we’ll say so.
3. Rights and personal information
Before any detailed review, we check who holds the rights to the records and what personal information they contain. This decides what can be included and what has to stay out.
4. Agree the scope
You choose what’s in and what’s out: whole clients, projects, folders or record types can be left out. Many businesses leave out HR and payroll entirely.
5. The agreement
The licence names the buyer, the records covered, the uses allowed, whether it’s exclusive, and the steps for removing personal details. Nothing is shared until it’s signed.
6. Preparation and handover
Records are prepared to the agreed standard, with personal details removed, and supplied only to the named buyer.
7. Payment
Payment terms are set out in the agreement before anything moves.
See also exclusive vs non-exclusive licences and how much your company data is worth.
Questions about a particular archive? Email [email protected] or tell us what you’ve got.
Got records you think might be worth something? A short description is enough for a free first look.