Space Sharing Agreements for Los Angeles Dentists
In Los Angeles, where commercial real estate costs are high, many dentists choose to share office space to reduce overhead, expand patient access, or collaborate with other providers. While space sharing can be an excellent strategy, it also introduces potential risks if expectations are not carefully documented. At Polished Legal, we help dentists create clear and enforceable space-sharing agreements that define responsibilities, protect each party’s interests, and ensure compliance with California law.
What Are Space Sharing Agreements?
A space-sharing agreement is a contract that governs the shared use of dental office space and resources. Unlike a full lease or sublease, these agreements focus on how multiple professionals will operate in the exact location, often with separate practices but shared facilities.
For dentists in Los Angeles, space sharing can provide significant advantages, including lower rent, shared staff or equipment, and greater scheduling flexibility. However, without a strong legal foundation, these arrangements can quickly lead to billing disputes, scheduling conflicts, or liability concerns.
Key Considerations in Space Sharing Agreements
When drafting or reviewing a space-sharing agreement, several issues must be addressed clearly to avoid misunderstandings:
- Billing and Cost Sharing: Define how rent, utilities, staff wages, supplies, and maintenance costs will be divided among parties.
- Scheduling and Use of Space: Establish when each dentist has access to operatories, shared equipment, and common areas to prevent conflicts.
- Liability and Insurance: Allocate responsibility for patient injuries, malpractice coverage, and property damage to protect all parties.
- Patient Records and Confidentiality: Ensure HIPAA compliance when multiple practices share facilities.
- Termination and Exit Provisions: Provide clear rules for ending the arrangement or adding new providers without disrupting operations.
At Polished Legal, we tailor each agreement to reflect the specific needs of the parties involved and the realities of practicing dentistry in Los Angeles.
Legal Protections for Dentists
Without the right legal safeguards, space-sharing agreements can expose dentists to unnecessary risk. Common protections include:
- Indemnification Clauses: Ensuring that one dentist is not held liable for another’s malpractice or negligence.
- Exclusive Use Terms: Clarifying which resources are shared and which are reserved for individual practices.
- Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Outlining mediation or arbitration procedures to resolve disagreements without litigation.
- Regulatory Compliance Provisions: Addressing OSHA, HIPAA, and dental board requirements to prevent violations.
By incorporating these protections into the agreement, we enable dentists to maintain control over their business while enjoying the benefits of space sharing.
Why Work With Polished Legal
Space sharing can be a smart business move, but only if it’s structured correctly. At Polished Legal, we combine dental industry knowledge with California contract law experience to create agreements that work in practice, not just on paper. We ensure your agreement promotes cooperation, reduces risk, and positions your practice for long-term success.
Speak With Polished Legal About Space-Sharing Agreements
If you are considering sharing office space with another dentist or healthcare provider in Los Angeles, don’t move forward without a solid agreement in place. At Polished Legal, we will help you draft, review, and negotiate a space-sharing agreement that protects your interests, clarifies responsibilities, and keeps your practice legally secure.
Contact us or schedule a call today, to schedule your discovery call and let us help you create a safe and cost-effective space-sharing arrangement.