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Agricultural and Agri-business Solicitors in Carlisle, Cumbria & Northumberland

Name: Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors
Address: Cartmell Shepherd Viaduct House, Victoria Viaduct Carlisle, CA3 8EZ
Telephone: 01228 516 666

Very few UK practices are leaders in agricultural law and none in the north of England can guide you through it better than us.

Cartmell Shepherd has worked with farmers and landowners for generations, so you can approach us with complete confidence about any matter affecting your agribusiness. From invaluable advice on tenancy succession to the registration and sale of sporting and mineral rights, or issues relating to renewable energy schemes, we’ve advised clients with countryside interests on all manner of issues. Heading up this department, Jonathan Carroll has a wealth of sector experience, having spent over two decades serving the needs of our rural customers and communities.

Our Agricultural Law Expertise

Farm-related property sales and purchases
Partnership matters and disputes
Landlord and tenant law, including specialist contentious matters before the Agricultural Land Tribunal and arbitrations
Commons law, including the establishment of Commons Associations
Wind, solar, hydroelectric and other renewable schemes
Stewardship Scheme and other grant schemes
Sporting, fishing and mineral rights
Equestrian matters, including livery and land use issues
Compulsory purchases
Complex agricultural wills and succession planning
Development sales and option agreements
Agribusiness

FAQs

How is buying/selling a farm different from buying a house?

Farm sales are usually more complex than residential transactions. Matters such as agricultural tenancies, rights of way, water supplies, mineral rights and planning opportunities can all affect value and use. Agricultural property transactions involve unique legal and practical issues. Specialist advice helps protect your interests and avoid costly problems later.

What checks are carried out when buying agricultural land?

We will investigate ownership, boundaries, access rights, tenancies, planning restrictions, environmental obligations and any rights/obligations affecting the land. You should consider getting tax advice from an accountant.

What is an overage agreement?

An overage agreement gives a seller the right to receive additional payments if the land increases in value in the future, often following planning permission or development. Key issues to consider will be the duration of the obligations and how the payment will be calculated.

What are sporting and mineral rights?

These are rights relating to activities such as shooting and fishing, or ownership of minerals beneath the land. They may be owned separately from the property itself.

Can part of a farm or field be sold?

Yes. However, new boundaries, access arrangements, utility rights and maintenance obligations often need to be documented carefully. It can increase the complexity and often the cost.

What if title deeds have been lost?

Lost deeds do not necessarily prevent a sale. In many cases ownership can be established through HM Land Registry records or a first registration application supported by evidence.