[sandyde]

Hi
I want to set up as a domestic cleaner and thinking of a jazzy name - once I come up with one how do I know if I can use it without treading on toes and do I need to register it anywhere? I live in the North East.
Thanks

[Barry W]

Just google Domain names go on one of the sites and put in the name you want, it'll tell you if it's taken or not.

[sandyde]

Thanks so I do not have to register a name anywhere?
So as long as the name I use is available as a domain name I am okay as I will be having a website?
 

[Rosemary Bolton]

you only need to register a name if you want to set up a ltd company. I would recommend you start as a sole trader first.

Try to avoid names that are already out there. My commercial firm started up as Immaculate Commercial Cleaning until I realised there are tons of immaculate cleaners out there. Since we changed to Dr B Clean (my name is Dr B(olton)) we have had a better brand and more success

[Nick Vassilev]

1. You want to pick a unique name that will be your brand. Research well and make sure there are no other companies/businesses that sound too close. You don't want to be re-branding a few months/years down the line just because someone else has already a registered trademark or has been trading under your chosen name (or a very closely sounding one). I suggest you search for any registered trademarks so you know what has been taken here: http://www.ipo.gov.uk/types/tm/t-os/t-find/tmtext.htm
2. Check for your domain availability at http://www.crazydomains.co.uk/ (cheapest .co.uk domains at £1.00 each) and register.
3. I'd register a LTD company with the same name. You don't have to use it from day one. It can stay dormant and you only pay a small annual fee to keep it alive.
4. If you are serious about your business you can register your brand as a trademark http://www.ipo.gov.uk/types/tm/t-os/t-os-forms/tm3-introduction.htm.

Then you can start concentrating on your business.