1. Setting the right tone
If you do receive an inspection letter, be proactive and assess your farm’s potential strengths and weaknesses. Open a line of communication with the EA early on and set a co-operative tone as this will help you to put forward your narrative on your business both during and after the inspection.
2. Give inspectors access to inspect
Inspections can often take a full view of the business so make sure you can demonstrate consistent and safe farming practices, as well as robust risk management. This means giving inspectors unobstructed access around the farm to see whatever they want unhindered.
3. Make sure the paperwork is in order
Inspections are not just about what happens on the farmyard and ensuring your records are up-to-date and available for inspection is a very simply way to give officers a good first impression. This doesn’t just help to make the process smoother but also demonstrates your capability as a business owner.
4. Be prepared for potential next steps
Most EA inspections are simply to check that the business’ practices are current and don’t often lead to further action. If, however, the EA do find something that they are not happy with and you are invited to a PACE interview, you should look to take legal advice as soon as possible. Should you be handed any sanctions, such as to remedy any environmental harm caused, it is important to remain cooperative.
5. Check legal expenses insurance cover
An investigation of this type may cause businesses severe disruption so make sure you check your insurance policies promptly to see if there is cover for legal expenses or remediation costs. Where necessary, taking early legal advice can ensure that you proceed on the right footing and give you the best chance of avoiding prosecution.
Would you like to know more?
Thrings’ Planning and Environment lawyers have extensive experience in navigating complex local and national planning policy legislation and have successfully supported commercial and residential applications through the approval and appeal processes.
You can download a PDF version of this guide.
