Renting a barn

[Aaron N]

Looking for some advice i have been offerd the rent of a barn on a freinds property. I am looking at using it for my fabrication buisnes and need to know what legal cover i would need as well as what legal cover the ownee of the barn would need.

[islandgirl]

Not an expert but here is my view. FIrst thing is - does it have planning permission? Doesn't mean you can't go ahead but if you do and get reported you could be made to stop after you have put investment into the barn. The owner would need insurance for the building and would have to declare the activity going on. The insurer may make stipulations about things which can and cannot be done in the barn. The owner should also have public liability insurance. You would need your own insurance for fire / theft etc and your own public liability. Have a chat to the NFU they are used to this scenario (good but expensive)

[Guest]

My Ex-Partner and I had seen the same, this farmer had rented a barn to various enterprises, from memory car repairs, one making concrete paving, and so on, the farmer was fined and all work was stopped instantly and told to clear the barn instantly.

[islandgirl]

Yes the council can serve notice to cease an activity if you do not apply for planning but I have not heard of anyone being fined (I am not disputing that it happened Archie2 just that I have not heard of it). Usually if you get "found out" you apply for permission. If you use the barn for an alternative use for 10 years and stay under the radar you can apply for certificate of lawfulness which it is very difficult for the council to refuse.