Why Updating the Registered Title of Your GP Surgery Is Crucial When a Partner Retires

When a GP partner retires from a practice that owns its surgery premises, one essential step is often overlooked: updating the registered title of the property at HM Land Registry. While it may seem like a low priority during the handover process, failing to amend the ownership records can lead to serious legal and financial complications down the line.

What’s the Issue?

The title register held by HM Land Registry shows the legal owners of the property. In a GP partnership, if the surgery is owned by some or all of the partners, those individuals should be listed as the proprietors. When a partner retires, their name must be removed and the register updated to reflect the current ownership.

What Can Go Wrong?

1. Retired Partner Retains Legal Ownership

If a retiring partner’s name remains on the title, they are still a legal co-owner of the property—even if a partnership deed says otherwise. This can expose the practice to major problems:

• The retired partner may be entitled to a share of the proceeds if the property is sold.
• Their consent would be needed for any future sale or mortgage.
• If they pass away, their share could pass to their estate, complicating matters further.

Example: A practice tried to refinance its surgery to fund a renovation, only to discover that a partner who had retired years earlier was still listed on the title. With no contact details and the individual living abroad, the delay cost the practice both time and money.

2. Disputes on Exit Valuations

A retired partner may later dispute the valuation they were paid on exit if they are still named as a legal owner, especially if the property has increased in value since.

3. Tax and Liability Exposure

An ex-partner whose name remains on the title might unknowingly remain liable for property taxes or legal claims. Similarly, current partners may have difficulty proving ownership and liability, creating problems with insurers, lenders, and HMRC.

Why Legal Advice Matters

A solicitor experienced in GP partnership property matters can ensure:

• The transfer of title is handled correctly and promptly.
• The right documents (such as a deed of retirement and Land Registry forms) are properly executed.
• The partnership agreement and title register are aligned.

Final Thoughts

The retirement of a GP partner is a key moment to review and update the legal structure of the practice, including property ownership. Ensuring that the title register reflects the current partnership not only avoids future disputes but also protects the practice’s ability to operate, refinance, and plan for the future.

Don’t let old names cause new problems. If a partner has recently retired—or did years ago—check your surgery’s title now and take steps to put things right if needed.

Please contact Victoria Walker in our Primary Care team.