1. Introduction
1.1 These terms and conditions (the “Terms”) govern the provision of mobile veterinary cardiology and imaging services (“Peripatetic Services”) as well as locum cardiology services (“Locum Services”) by Vet-Cor (“the Company”) to veterinary practices, referral centres, and other clients (“the Client”) within the United Kingdom.
2. 2. Scope of Services
2.1 Peripatetic Services: The Company will provide on-site cardiology consultations, diagnostic imaging, and related veterinary services at the Client’s premises.
2.2 Locum Services: The Company may provide temporary cardiology consultancy services as required, on dates agreed upon by both parties.
2.3 Call-Out Fees: The Company reserves the right to charge a call-out fee for visits, which will be agreed upon in advance. Additionally, an emergency call-out fee may apply for last-minute or out-of-hours requests, at the Company’s discretion. These fees will be outlined in the Service Agreement or communicated to the Client at the time of booking.
3. Fees and Payment Terms
3.1 The fees for services provided will be agreed upon in advance and outlined in the Service Agreement.
3.2 Invoices will be issued upon completion of the services, and payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date.
3.3 Late payments may incur interest at a rate of 8% above the Bank of England base rate.
4. IR35 Compliance
4.1 The Company operates as an independent contractor, and all services provided are on a business-to-business basis. Both parties acknowledge that the relationship is not one of employer and employee.
4.2 The Company shall be responsible for its own tax and National Insurance contributions.
4.3 The Client shall not exercise control over how the Company delivers its services. The Company retains the right to determine the manner in which the services are provided, including the use of its own equipment and methods.
4.4 The Company reserves the right to provide a substitute suitably qualified veterinarian to perform the agreed services, subject to the Client’s reasonable approval, without affecting the agreed terms.
4.5 The Company is not entitled to receive any employment-related benefits, including but not limited to holiday pay, sick pay, or pension contributions.
4.6 Any agreements or contracts between the Company and the Client shall reflect the independent contractor status and ensure compliance with IR35 regulations.
5. Responsibilities of the Parties
5.1 The Company will provide the services with reasonable care, skill, and diligence in accordance with industry standards.
5.2 The Client will provide a safe working environment, access to the necessary facilities, and relevant patient information to enable the Company to carry out the services effectively.
5.3 The Client is responsible for obtaining any necessary consents from pet owners for the procedures to be performed.
6. Liability and Insurance
6.1 The Company carries professional indemnity and public liability insurance and will provide evidence of coverage upon request.
6.2 The Company’s liability to the Client for any loss or damage arising from the provision of services shall be limited to the amount of fees paid by the Client for the relevant services.
6.3 The Company shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential loss or damage.
7. Confidentiality
7.1 Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any sensitive or proprietary information obtained during the course of the services.
7.2 This confidentiality obligation remains in effect after the termination of the agreement.
8. Termination
8.1 Either party may terminate the agreement with 30 days’ written notice.
8.2 The Company may terminate the agreement immediately if the Client fails to make payment or breaches any material term of the agreement.
9. Governing Law
9.1 These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.
9.2 Any disputes arising under or in connection with these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
10. Amendments
10.1 The Company reserves the right to amend these Terms from time to time. The Client will be notified of any changes, and continued use of the services will constitute acceptance of the amended Terms.
Updated August 2024