Any argumentation and objections presented in the search opinion must be consistent with limitations of the search and the reasons therefor. This applies to limitations for reasons of non-patentability (e.g. business methods – Art. 52(2)(c), see B‑VIII, 1), for reasons of severe deficiencies prejudicing a meaningful search (Rule 63, see B‑VIII, 3) or due to a contravention of Rule 43(2) (Rule 62a, see B‑VIII, 4). In these cases, the search opinion will also contain the information indicated in B‑VIII, 3.3 and B-VIII, 4.3.

Where claims are deemed abandoned by reason of non-payment of a claims fee (Rule 45 or Rule 162) and are consequently not searched, the search opinion will draw the applicant's attention to this fact.