Farms, Rural Business and Property

Expert legal advice for farms,
rural businesses, and landowners

Whether a farm is run by an individual, a family, or through a partnership or company, it is often an all-consuming, complex operation, more of a lifestyle than a job. At Bennett Oakley Solicitors, we understand that working the land involves not only a significant financial investment, but also a deep personal commitment of time and energy.

Back to Agricultural and Rural Property

We have over 55 years of experience working with the rural and agricultural sector in Mid Sussex and across the South East, and will provide practical, straightforward legal advice to help you grow and protect your rural enterprise. Whether you’re buying or selling farmland, rural buildings, or commercial property, we’ll ensure the process is managed efficiently and with minimal disruption to your day-to-day business.

Buying and Selling Rural Property

It’s important to understand that rural property transactions differ significantly from residential conveyancing. Instructing a solicitor with specific experience in agricultural law is essential to avoid complications and ensure nothing is missed during the due diligence process.

Some key considerations unique to rural property include:

Access rights and rights of way – Is there sufficient legal access to the land? Are there any public footpaths, bridleways, or private roads crossing the property?
Water and drainage rights, including irrigation channels, ponds, and boreholes
The sale and transfer of chattels, such as stables, gates, fencing, and machinery
Environmental and countryside protection measures
Legal rights over watercourses such as rivers, streams, or lakes on the land
Mining and mineral rights, including coal mining searches
Boundary responsibilities and disputes

Legal Support for Rural Business Operations

Running a farm or rural business comes with its own set of commercial, legal, and regulatory challenges. Our solicitors combine deep sector knowledge with a proactive, solutions-focused approach to help you operate with confidence.

We can advise you on matters such as:

Succession planning for family-owned farms and estates
Renewable energy projects, including solar or wind installations
Licensing agreements for land use or events
Planning permission for new agricultural buildings or changes of use
Environmental compliance and regulation
Contracts for the sale or supply of produce and livestock
Waste management regulations
Partnership agreements and restructuring

Whether you’re buying land, growing a business, or planning for the future, our team is here to guide and support you.

Speak with a Bennett Oakley expert today

Looking for legal support? Get in touch with our solicitors, and we’ll connect you with the right expertise to meet your specific needs through our trusted legal team and professional partners.

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FAQ Topics

What makes rural property transactions different from residential ones?

Rural property transactions often involve additional complexities such as rights of way, water access, agricultural restrictions, environmental protections, and ownership of land-based assets like barns or stables. Having a solicitor experienced in agricultural law ensures all these elements are reviewed and correctly managed.

Do I need planning permission to convert agricultural buildings into residential use?

In some cases, permitted development rights allow for the conversion of agricultural buildings into dwellings without full planning permission. However, this depends on specific criteria, such as building use, size, and location. We can help you assess whether your project qualifies and guide you through the necessary process.

Can you help with succession planning for a family farm?

Yes, we regularly assist farming families with succession planning to ensure the future of the business is protected. This may include advice on Wills, trusts, tax planning, partnership agreements, and the smooth transfer of land and assets between generations.

What legal issues should I consider when installing renewable energy on my land?

Installing solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable infrastructure can involve planning permission, land use agreements, and regulatory compliance. We provide legal advice to ensure you meet all requirements and protect your land and income.

I’m thinking about selling my farm, how early should I speak to a solicitor?

It’s best to seek legal advice as early as possible, even before listing the property for sale. This allows time to prepare documents, resolve any title issues, and identify potential obstacles that could delay the transaction.