Clearcast Management

Ensure compliance and smooth broadcast approval with expert Clearcast management for UK-regulated TV ad campaigns.
Clearcast exists to make sure UK broadcast ads meet legal, regulatory and technical standards before reaching air. Our Clearcast management service guides your project through every step of this process, ensuring your commercial is compliant, correctly formatted and ready for broadcast. We handle the details so your campaign can go live without delay.
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What Is Clearcast?

Clearcast is the UK body responsible for reviewing and approving TV ads before they appear on channels such as ITV, Channel 4, Sky and others. They ensure all claims are substantiated, video follows advertising codes (BCAP/CAP)and the final file meets broadcast technical specifications.

Clearcast approval is mandatory for any TV commercial airing in the UK.

Clearcast management includes:

  • Pre-production script assessment
  • Substantiation gathering (evidence for claims)
  • Rough-cut review and feedback
  • Final clocked ad submission
  • Liaison with Clearcast for queries and revisions
  • Delivery of broadcast-ready materials

With the right support, the process is smooth, predictable and stress-free.

Why Clearcast Management Matters

Broadcast deadlines are tight, rules are strict and small oversights can delay an entire campaign. Professional Clearcast management ensures your ad is compliant from the very beginning. Clearcast expertise helps you:

  • Avoid costly delays during approval
  • Ensure claims and messaging meet regulatory standards
  • Navigate CAP/BCAP rules with confidence
  • Streamline communication with Clearcast reviewers
  • Catch potential issues at script stage (before filming)
  • Deliver technically approved files that meet all broadcast specs
  • Protect your brand from legal or regulatory problems

When managed properly, Clearcast becomes a straightforward, efficient part of the production process.

Our Clearcast Management Capabilities

We offer an end-to-end Clearcast workflow that covers scripting, compliance, technical delivery and post-approval amendments.

Script Review & Pre-Production Advice
  • Early-stage Clearcast script submission
  • CAP/BCAP compliance checks
  • Messaging and claim advice
  • Identifying potential issues before filming

Claim Substantiation Support
  • Gathering evidence for performance claims
  • Organising necessary documents for approval
  • Liaising with your internal or legal teams

Rough-Cut Submission & Feedback
  • Uploading work-in-progress edits
  • Managing queries and required edits
  • Ensuring compliance throughout the production process

Final Ad Submission & Delivery
  • Preparing clocked, fully compliant final versions
  • Checking technical specifications (EBU R128, Harding tests, etc.)
  • Submitting to Clearcast for final approval
  • Coordinating distribution to broadcasters if required

Ongoing Compliance Support
  • Making amendments for re-runs or updated campaigns
  • Managing multi-version edits and supers
  • Advising on future Clearcast requirements

Everything is handled with clarity, communication and attention to detail.

Where Clearcast Management Adds Value

Clearcast services are essential for:

  • TV commercial campaigns (UK-wide)
  • VOD platforms regulated under Broadcaster VOD rules
  • Ads with performance or scientific claims
  • Pharmaceuticals, financial, or regulated industries
  • Campaigns with tight deadlines
  • Multi-version and multi-language broadcast assets

If your video is destined for UK broadcast, Clearcast management ensures it airs on time and without complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Clearcast and why do I need it?
Clearcast reviews and approves TV ads in the UK to ensure they meet legal, ethical and technical standards before broadcasting.

When should I contact Clearcast?
Ideally at the script stage. Early engagement avoids costly reshoots or messaging issues after filming.

What does Clearcast check?
Claims, evidence/substantiation, legality, classification, compliance with CAP/BCAP rules and technical delivery standards.

How long does Clearcast approval take?
Typically 2–5 working days for script review and similar timelines for final approval, depending on complexity.

Can you manage the full Clearcast submission process for us?
Yes, we handle script submission, substantiation, rough cuts, final delivery and all communication with Clearcast on your behalf.

What files do broadcasters require?
We provide broadcast-ready files (e.g., AS-11 UK DPP, Harding-safe video, correct audio levels) so your commercial meets all technical requirements.

Does Clearcast apply to online advertising?
No, Clearcast applies to TV and BVOD. However, similar principles can guide compliant online messaging.