Farm Business Tenancy for England – by RICS and supportive organisations

Farm Business Tenancies (FBT) is one of the key tools for longterm farm partnerships, and we often use it for Abunda Land Matching.

At the same time, it is also surrounded by complexity and there are many detailed terms and considerations that need to be thought well through.

What this resource is

This resource is a guiding document, in the form of a PDF.

It comes from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (and other organisations) and provides practical guidance for anyone considering a long-term farm business tenancy (FBT) in England.

Why this resource is useful

For both parties The document acts as a useful guide to the points that need to be clarified and addressed within a tenancy agreement. This is to ensure that expectations are understood before commitments are made.

If you are a landholder The report outlines what to consider with a longer tenancy, including how responsibilities, management expectations, and practical arrangements are set out within the agreement.

If you are a landseeker The document highlights the types of commitments and practical terms that may be included in a long-term FBT. This helps you understand what to review and discuss before entering an agreement.

A few key take-aways

Key points highlighted in the report

  • Clarity at the beginning matters. Clear intentions and expectations at the outset help shape more workable long-term arrangements.
  • Stability enables long-term land management. Longer tenancies can support planning, investment, and stewardship over extended time horizons.
  • Relationships underpin successful agreements. Constructive working relationships between landlords and tenants are an important foundation for long-term arrangements.