Legal Definitions - rental right

Definition: Rental right is a copyright owner's power to control the use of copies of their work beyond the first sale. This control applies when the copy is offered to the public for temporary use for a fee or some other commercial advantage.

For example, a store that rents DVDs and videotapes must obtain rental rights from the copyright owner to legally rent out copies of their work. Similarly, a hotel that offers the loan of DVDs or videotapes must also obtain rental rights.

Rental rights are recognized among members of the European Commission and under TRIPs. The right also applies to the rental of computer software.

Overall, rental right is an important aspect of copyright law that allows creators to control the use of their work and receive compensation for its use.