Employment Agreement Covenants in the UK

Types, enforcement, and compensation.

Updated on March 15th, 2023

What types of covenants can be recognized in the United Kingdom?

The following types of covenants can be used in the U.K.:

  1. Non-competition covenants
  2. Non-dealing covenants 
  3. Non-solicitation covenants
  4. Confidentiality Information covenants
  5. Intellectual property covenants

Can these covenants be enforced? How are they enforced? 

Yes, covenants can be enforced. However, the following criteria should be met:

  1. The covenant is reasonable
  2. The covenant protects legitimate business interests
  3. The covenant’s duration is no longer than what is necessary to protect said interests

Does my supported employee need to be compensated in return for restrictive covenants? 

No, unless a legal dispute arises as a result of the covenant and the court awards the supported employee financial damages.