Go to content

Working as an associate after a practice sale

The following guidance outlines key considerations to help associates protect their position and establish a clear, professional relationship with a new practice owner.

Overview

When a dental practice changes ownership, associates face a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As self-employed professionals, you fall outside the scope of the Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment regulations. This means any existing agreement ends with the sale, and a new contract must be negotiated with the incoming owner.

If you are not planning to stay at the practice, make sure to check the terms of your original contract. Post-termination restrictions, including non-compete or non-solicitation clauses, will still apply, even if the agreement ended with the sale. It is important to be aware of these before making any decisions about your next steps.