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Written estimates for vet treatment
The final CMA Order requires a written estimate when recommended treatment is reasonably likely to cost £500 or more including VAT. It must be updated in writing if the total is likely to rise by 20% or £500 including VAT, whichever is lower. The requirement starts in phases in 2027.
What this means
- Written estimates are intended for treatment pathways, not just single routine price-list items.
- The estimate can be a specific figure, a range, or a mix, but should indicate likely costs.
- CompareVetPricing routine price pages are not substitutes for a treatment estimate from a vet.
Status at the source check
Order made; the written-estimate duty is legally binding but does not become applicable until the relevant June or September 2027 deadline.
Remedy-specific timing
| Milestone | Timing | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Substantive Order | 22 September 2026 | Published |
| Written estimates: larger businesses | June 2027 | Scheduled |
| Written estimates: smaller businesses | September 2027 | Scheduled |
Useful next steps for pet owners
For planned non-urgent treatment, ask for the recommended pathway, likely total including VAT and known exclusions in writing.
It makes the scope of an estimate inspectable.
Ask when the practice would update the estimate and what change would trigger contact.
The CMA remedy has a defined update rule, while a current quote may have its own terms before the applicable deadline.
Do not delay emergency assessment or treatment in order to obtain comparison paperwork.
Urgent clinical decisions should be made with the treating team.
Do not use this page or a published routine price as a substitute for a clinician's treatment estimate. Check the applicable business-size deadline before judging compliance.
Timing
Larger businesses must provide qualifying written estimates from June 2027 and smaller businesses from September 2027.
This page was reviewed on 26 September 2026 by CompareVetPricing editorial team. The Veterinary Services Market Investigation Order 2026 was made on 22 September 2026. It makes the remedies legally binding for the businesses to which they apply, with compliance dates phased by remedy and business size. The separate Funding Order has already been published.