Terms of Business

1. Introduction

These Terms of Business govern all veterinary services provided by Scope Farm Vets (“we”, “us”, “our”). By instructing us, registering as a client, or allowing us to attend your animals, you agree to be bound by these terms. These terms apply to all work undertaken unless varied in writing.

2. Provision of Services

We provide veterinary services for commercial farmers and smallholders, including clinical work, consultancy, herd health planning, emergency care and supply of veterinary medicines. All services are delivered with reasonable skill and care in accordance with the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.

3. Fees, Charges and VAT

  • All fees are subject to VAT at the prevailing rate.

  • Fees may include visit charges, professional time, medicines, laboratory fees, consumables and any additional costs incurred on your behalf.

  • We reserve the right to revise our fees at any time. Updated fees will be published or made available on request.

4. Payment Terms

  • Payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date unless otherwise agreed in writing.

  • We reserve the right to charge statutory interest and compensation on overdue accounts under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998.

  • Failure to pay may result in suspension of non‑emergency services and/or requirement for payment in advance.

5. Direct Debit

  • Clients may choose to pay by Direct Debit. A mandate form is available on request or included with your first invoice.

  • Direct Debit payments will be taken automatically on or after the due date.

6. Non‑Payment and Debt Recovery

If an account remains unpaid:

  • We may withhold non‑urgent services, reports, certificates or prescriptions.

  • We may refer the debt to a third‑party collection agency. You will be liable for all reasonable recovery costs, fees and charges incurred.

  • We may apply administrative fees for late or failed payments.

7. Prescriptions and Medicines

  • Prescription‑only medicines are supplied in accordance with the Veterinary Medicines Regulations.

  • We may only prescribe medicines for animals under our care, meaning we must have sufficient knowledge of the herd through regular visits.

  • We are not responsible for delays or failures caused by third‑party suppliers or laboratories.

8. Emergency and Out‑of‑Hours Care

We provide 24/7 emergency cover for registered clients. Emergency visits attract enhanced fees. We reserve the right to prioritise cases based on clinical urgency.

9. Client Responsibilities

You agree to:

  • Provide accurate and timely information about your animals and farm.

  • Ensure safe handling facilities and adequate assistance during visits.

  • Follow veterinary advice, including treatment instructions and withdrawal periods.

  • Notify us promptly of any adverse reactions or concerns.

We reserve the right to refuse or discontinue services where animal welfare, staff safety or professional integrity may be compromised.

10. Records, Reports and Data

Clinical records remain the property of Scope Farm Vets. Copies may be provided on request. We may share relevant information with laboratories, referral centres, insurers or regulatory bodies where necessary. Personal data is processed in accordance with UK GDPR and our Privacy Policy.

11. Liability

  • We accept no liability for loss, damage or consequential loss unless caused by our proven negligence.

  • Advice is given in good faith based on the information available at the time.

  • You remain responsible for the management, welfare and handling of your animals at all times.

  • We are not liable for losses arising from delays, adverse weather, disease outbreaks, third‑party failures or circumstances beyond our reasonable control.

12. Termination of Services

Either party may terminate the relationship at any time. We may terminate services immediately if:

  • fees remain unpaid,

  • there is a breakdown in trust or cooperation,

  • animal welfare or staff safety is at risk.

All outstanding fees become payable immediately upon termination.

13. Changes to These Terms

We may amend these Terms of Business at any time. The latest version will always be available on our website. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of any updated terms.