Start with what the seller is actually selling
Goodwill, equipment, property (or a lease), and the patient list are rarely neat boxes. You need a clear picture of what is included, what is leased, and what obligations pass to you on completion.
Numbers to stress-test
- NHS contract position, UDA performance, and any clawback exposure.
- Private income by treatment type and how much depends on specific clinicians.
- Associate and hygienist agreements — notice periods, splits, and what happens if someone leaves.
- Lab and materials as a percentage of turnover; equipment finance and hire purchase.
- Working capital: who owes what, and whether reported profit still leaves enough cash in the business.
Tax and structure
How the transaction is structured (asset vs share purchase) changes tax and risk. Get advice early so you are not negotiating blind.
If you want this tailored to a practice you are seriously considering, get in touch — we review acquisitions for dental buyers regularly.