The UK is seeing a growing number of disputes between horse owners and livery yard operators, driven by rising costs, unclear agreements, and informal arrangements. Legal and industry data suggest that poorly drafted or verbal contracts are a common cause of disagreements, often escalating to County Court claims.
Inflation and increasing prices for feed, bedding, staffing, and other equestrian essentials have intensified tensions, with many disputes arising over fee increases, notice periods, and responsibilities for veterinary costs or horse care. Ministry of Justice statistics indicate that small claims valued between £1,000 and £3,000—typical for livery disputes—rose sharply in early 2025, while defended cases increased by 8%, leaving many parties facing almost a year of legal uncertainty.
Disputes are not just financial; they can also affect horse welfare. Cases reported in the sector show that when agreements break down, owners may be denied access to their horses or face stress over unclear responsibilities, underscoring the importance of clear, formal arrangements.
Contracts form the foundation of any equestrian business. A well-drafted contract lays out the terms of the business relationship, clarifies expectations for both yard owners and clients, and makes it easier to resolve disagreements over services, fees, or responsibilities. Regularly reviewed contracts also ensure that terms reflect current costs, services, and legal requirements.
To support the sector, the Yard Owner Hub provides free, easy-to-edit livery contract templates. These contracts are professionally checked by Aria Grace Equine Law to ensure accuracy and legal compliance. By using these templates, yard owners can establish clear terms for notice periods, fee structures, termination clauses, and liabilities, reducing the risk of disputes and protecting both their business and the welfare of the horses in their care.
Whether running a DIY, part-livery, or full-livery yard, investing in a formal contract protects everyone involved. Transparent agreements build trust, clarify expectations, and prevent minor misunderstandings from escalating into costly legal battles. In today’s economic climate, clear contracts are not just a formality—they are essential for safeguarding relationships, finances, and equine welfare.