Always get proper photo/video ownership rights or licensing rights in writing from your associated licensees, professional photographers, photographers, image owners.
Never use photos/videos obtained online or from MLS listings or advertising without obtaining proper ownership rights or licensing rights in writing from the owner/licensee of the photographs or imaged.
If in doubt, do not use the photos/videos.
Take the proper photos/videos yourself is a risk management strategy for copyright intellectual property risks.
Comply with drone laws.
Avoid using images/videos from Google images or Youtube.
There are inexpensive stock image companies. SCR uses these services. Contact SCR PR staff for more information (e.g. Mike, Sharon).
Some properties are private and or copyrighted so get proper permission to photograph or video.
There may be copyright issues with some plans, blueprints, surveys, inspection reports, consulting reports, so always best to get the permission from the proper potential copyright or intellectual property owner/licensee before transmitting or advertising or putting on MLS.
SCR has rough draft licensing forms on the screaltors.org forms page for your lawyers to review and tailor to your individual needs and desires.
There are legitimate intellectual property owner/licensees that strictly enforce their rights.
There are illegitimate intellectual property owner/licensees who may attempt to extort money from you.
Obtain legal counsel.
Be vigilant.
Report to FBI at www.IC3.gov
Create your DMCA safe harbor.
Call the SCR legal hotline.
NAR information on copyright and creating a DMCA safe harbor for your online uses.
https://www.nar.realtor/copyright
Posted by: Byron King on 06/10/19 (This information is only accurate as of 06/10/19. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 06/10/19 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org)