On 8th April 2024 the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice for England was launched to provide guidance on the standards of behaviour expected from landlords and tenants and their professional advisers involved in agricultural tenancy matters.
The Code is voluntary and founded on three principles which is designed to foster and encourage:
Clarity: as to the definition of intentions; expectations and the definition of problems if they do arise.
Communication: which should be clear and timely, considered and tailored to the needs and situation of the recipient.
Collaboration: the code of practice encourages a collaborative and cooperative approach. This is based on the belief that landlords and tenants can achieve much more when they work together in a positive spirit of common endeavour.
The Agricultural Landlord – Tenant Code of Practice deals with the following:
- Standards of behaviour
- Landlords/Tenant/Advisors
- Minimum standards expected (unless good reasons suggest otherwise)
- Areas
It is designed to give best practice in dealing with the following aspects of agricultural tenancy matters:
- Grant of a tenancy
- Routine engagement during the term
- Payment of rent
- Rent reviews
- Improvements
- Access to environmental schemes and other business opportunities
- Termination and renewal
- Disputes
- Role of professional advisers and agents
The Code sets out for professional advisers that they should make their client aware of the Code and work constructively with their clients and other parties.
The Code promotes constructive and positive engagement between landlords and tenants with the acknowledgement that disputes can, and do, arise in practice.
The introduction of the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice for England is a positive development, promoting a message which will benefit all of those involved in agriculture. To learn more about DTM Legal’s work within the agricultural sector visit our Agricultural Services page.
