New landlord-tenant code of practice called ‘good start’ in fair communication
10th April 2024
The launch of the code of practice regulating landlord-tenant relationships has been warmly welcomed by farming leaders.
The Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice is a product of the Farm Tenancy Forum, a group brought together by Defra to explore and provide feedback on issues relating to the tenanted farming sector in England.
The code has been built around the idea of three key principles:
- clarity – as to what is agreed and expected of landlords and tenants
- communication – appropriate and effective communications between landlords and tenants
- collaboration – encouraging a co-operative approach between landlord and tenants.
Backing British farmers
Environment secretary Steve Barclay said: “The tenanted sector is a central part of this government’s work to back British farmers and grow the rural economy.
“That’s why I am pleased to see the launch of this new code of practice, which will ensure the tenanted sector continues to thrive by promoting positive relationships between tenants and landlords.”
“It continues our progress to implement the Government’s Response to the Rock Review, with over a third of the commitments already completed, and actions underway to deliver on most other areas.”
Good start
NFU deputy president David Exwood said that the new code of practice is a “good start” to help foster fairness, communication and good practice between landlords, tenants and agents.
He added: “With 60% of NFU farm businesses being tenants, it was really important that tenant farmers’ views were well represented in the development of the code to help produce a standard that works for everyone.
“I encourage all tenants, landlords and their professional advisers to embrace the code and its key principles of clarity, communication and collaboration.
“Agricultural tenants and tenanted land play a vital role in delivering this government’s food production and environmental ambitions, and in growing our rural economies. We now need to see further recommendations from the Rock Review taken forward, including the creation of a tenant farming commissioner who, in a defined role, could take up non-compliance with the new code.”
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