New guide to fixed equipment issues in farming

A definitive guide in the complex legislation on fixed equipment in agricultural tenancies has been published by the Tenant Farming Commissioner.

The Guide to Fixed Equipment on Agricultural Holdings in Scotland summarises the rules and provides valuable information for both tenants and landlords in relation to fixed equipment in both secure and fixed duration tenancies, an area where disagreement is often met in tenant/landlord discussions.

Commenting on the document’s launch chair of the Scottish Tenant Farmers’ Association, Christopher Nicholson said;

“The Guide to Fixed Equipment is a well-timed addition to the Tenant Farming Commissioner’s expanding library of technical advice available to landlords and tenants.

“Misunderstandings and unfamiliarity of the rights and responsibilities of both parties frequently lead to fractious relationships and are one of the most common causes of dispute we have to deal with,” said Nicholson.

He said that the TFC, Bob McIntosh, was to be congratulated on his comprehensive guide which not only gave a clear explanation of the legal and technical issues relating to the responsibilities of tenants and landlords but also posed key questions over fixed equipment and practical solutions to potential problems.

“Moreover, the guide stresses the importance of establishing and maintaining a continuous record of works to landlord’s fixed equipment to provide a baseline for discussions and determining whether future works should be undertaken as a repair by the tenant or renewal by the landlord,” added Nicholson who said the latest publication rounded off an already excellent set of guides produced by McIntosh on important issues to the sector.