New industry-led guide to support longer-term farm tenancies
Discover why the new guide for longer-term farming tenancies, backed by the CLA and other sector leaders, matters for land managers in England
A new longer-term tenancies guide has been launched by the industry-led Farm Tenancy Forum, developed in conjunction with Defra, to help support a more secure, sustainable and collaborative tenanted farming sector.
As an active member of the forum, the CLA has contributed to the development of this resource and is pleased to share it with members. The guide brings together practical advice and recommended approaches to help both landlords and tenants consider longer-term agreements that can benefit their businesses and the wider rural economy.
Why this guide matters
Longer-term tenancies can provide stability and confidence for both parties. They allow tenants to plan ahead, invest in their holdings and deliver environmental outcomes, while offering landlords greater security and building stronger working relationships.
However, forum members recognised that uptake of longer-term agreements remains limited, often due to uncertainty around available options or how to structure them effectively. This guide aims to address those challenges by:
- Providing guidance on balancing flexibility with security
- Considering clauses needed around environmental delivery and diversification
- Highlighting the benefits for both landlords and tenants of longer-term agreements
- Providing clarity on legal and practical considerations related to longer-term tenancies
- Offering tools and prompts to support constructive discussions between landlords and tenants
The CLA’s involvement
The CLA sits on the Farm Tenancy Forum, which brings together sector-specific organisations to share expertise, identify challenges and support positive outcomes for both landlords and tenants. Through our involvement, we've helped ensure that the guide reflects real-world experience, promotes fair and professional practice and is grounded in the needs of those managing rural land and businesses.
Access the guide
Members can download the newly published longer-term tenancies guide below.
If you would like further advice on agricultural tenancy matters or need support interpreting the guide, please contact your regional CLA advice team.