The Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) and the Country
Land and Business Association (CLA) are working together to
support landlords and their farming tenants in these unparalleled
times, with all sectors being impacted by the current COVID-19
pandemic.
In a joint statement, the TFA and CLA, with DEFRA’s
support, are appealing to all rural landlords and tenants to work
together collaboratively and compassionately during this
unprecedented time. The plea is made in respect of all tenancy
matters, but particularly rent payments, notices to quit and
finalising new tenancy agreements.
Both the TFA and CLA say neither party should seek to
take advantage of the current situation or use it as an excuse to
act unreasonably. Both parties should consider the impact of
their actions on the other and avoid taking a hard line on any
issue, at what is a very difficult time. Never has it been more
important for the whole of the farming industry to focus one
hundred percent on supplying the nation’s food.
CLA President Mark Bridgeman said: “We know that
landowners value their relationships with tenants deeply, and we
are working with CLA members to underline the importance of
working closely with tenants who are experiencing difficulties
due to Coronavirus. We have advised landlords to discuss with
farming tenants any problems they are facing so that a mutual
solution can be found, and we make sure farming businesses can
carry on as well as possible in these difficult
circumstances.
“We also suggest that, as far as possible, current
disputes are put on hold and that formal proceedings for any
non-payment of rent are used only as a matter of extreme last
resort.”
TFA national chairman Mark Coulman said “It is
inevitable that some tenants will struggle to meet rent payments
or other tenancy obligations due to cashflow difficulties or
other knock on impacts of the coronavirus situation. In these
circumstances we are urging landlords and tenants to work
together to agree alternative arrangements. We are already
hearing of positive examples of landlords and tenants working
together during this trying time.”
The TFA has been actively assisting members left in
difficult situations beyond their control due to Coronavirus
restrictions. In one case, a conversation with a TFA member’s
landlord's agent led to agreement on a better frequency of rental
payments to assist cash flow and reduce the stress of having to
find large sums of money upfront.
In a second case, the member has decided in light of
the recent events to give up farming, but he had just gone beyond
the point at which he could break his tenancy. Although the
landlord had previously rejected his notice to quit, the TFA
managed to negotiate its subsequent acceptance.
“As always, communication will be vital and we would
encourage dialogue between landlords and tenants, so that
practical solutions can be found for any ongoing issues or any
that arise during this challenging period. TFA and CLA members
should contact their respective organisations for any further
guidance needed,” said Mr Coulman.
