By Robert Moore, of George F White

DRIVING around the countryside, it’s amazing to see and think how many utility companies’ apparatus (gas mains, electricity lines and water pipes) criss-cross the farming landscape.

For those that have apparatus above ground, there is the constant reminder, especially during spraying, harvest and cultivation periods of the hassle they cause.

Occasionally, utility companies require access to undertake repairs, renewals or replacements to their apparatus, which inevitably results in damage being caused to property and can be a real problem, especially if access is required during wet periods or busy times of the year.

Most utility companies operate under various Acts of Parliament and therefore it is vital to have a good understanding of the underlying legislation and what statutory powers utility companies do and don’t have when they require entry to install new apparatus, repair, maintain or replace existing equipment.

If your property is to be affected by such programmes, I would advise these issues are addressed before any access is permitted as, ultimately, you need to be assured that you will be fully compensated for any loss you incur.

Inevitably, any access requirement is going to cause some level of disturbance, whether it be physical damage to the ground, loss of crops, inconvenience of moving stock or your time.

Of course, the recent wet weather will only exacerbate such loss as utility improvement programmes become ever increasingly protracted.

It is important to iron out the implications of any utility scheme from the start and have a full understanding of works involved as, in far too many circumstances, the landowner and/or occupier are not fully briefed by the utility company when the programme commences.

Under a normal utility improvement scheme, there are various compensation issues to address.

Firstly, relating to loss of income and with commodity prices fluctuating, it is important to get the timing and detail of any claim correct.

Secondly, there will inevitably be some reinstatement to do once the works are complete, especially as companies often take access over the winter period.

Unfortunately, I have been involved in far too many cases where no consideration has been given to the land or farmer’s property.

I would advise reinstatement rates are agreed before entry is permitted which may include hourly charges for undertaking sub-soiling, discing etc to remove any deep ruts or soil compaction caused by the works.

This makes a final claim much easier to settle and reduces the need for speculation.

Many underestimate the time and cost of such reinstatement measures and this can be a contentious point when trying to settle a claim with the utility company.

Thirdly, inconvenience and disturbance payments. It is vital that from the start, you keep a record of all your time spent in correspondence with the utility company and any inconvenience this may bring, including your time speaking with an agent representing you.

Such time records should also include any additional requirements such as amendments to your agri-environmental stewardship scheme, additional time spent in spraying, harvesting or cultivating or taking more time feeding .

In addition to the above, there might also be a capital payment due if a new easement is created. This will relate to the diminution in value to the property the installation of the new apparatus brings.

Such claims should not be overlooked, and it is important to get an understanding of the effect such apparatus can have on the value of the underlying asset.

If a new wayleave is created or an existing one altered, make sure the agreement is accurate and you receive the correct payments.

Lastly, don’t forget that the utility company will cover all your expenses, including the appointment of an agent and other professionals to act on your behalf. Getting professional advice can be beneficial to ensure you are fully compensated.