Who Owns the App and Website Code After Handover? Questions and Answers on Ownership

Many business owners find out too late that their app is published from the developer's account, that their domain is registered to someone else, or that they have no copy of the code. This article answers the ownership questions you should ask before you sign, not after a dispute.

Will I own the app code after delivery?

You should, but it does not happen automatically: the contract decides it. Ask for the contract to state explicitly that full ownership of the code passes to you at delivery and that you receive a complete copy. At Comedia we hand over the code, files and accounts in the client's name at delivery, with no conditions.

What exactly should be in my name?

Why do some developers open accounts in their own name?

Sometimes for speed, because opening an Apple developer account in your company's name needs documents and takes time. Sometimes to keep the client tied to them. Either way the result is the same: moving or developing the project with someone else becomes harder. The fix is to open the accounts in your name from the start, and we guide you through the steps.

What do I receive on delivery day?

• The complete code for the app, website and admin panel.
• Login details for every account, with ownership and admin rights confirmed in your name.
• Design files and the logo in their original formats.
• Training on the admin panel, with a recorded video to refer back to.

Can the developer use my app in their own marketing?

Showing a project in a portfolio is common, but it should be with your agreement. Reselling your app or its bespoke design to another client should not happen without a clear agreement. Our designs are made for your project, not taken from a template.

What if I want to move to another company later?

If the code and accounts are in your name, moving is possible: you hand the code to the new team and they continue from there. Clean, organised code makes that much easier, which is why we write code that is easy to build on later, whether you stay with us or not.

What should the contract say to protect me?

1. Full ownership of the code and designs passes to you at delivery.
2. Store, domain, hosting and payment gateway accounts are opened in your name.
3. A complete copy of the code and files is handed over.
4. Features, timeline, cost and payment milestones.
5. What post-launch support covers and what counts as new development.

Next step

Before signing any contract, ask these questions in writing. If you would like us to look at your idea or at a quote you received elsewhere, book your free first consultation, learn more about our mobile app development service or get in touch directly.