The Commercial Department of Luscombe Maye are consistently asked about the feasibility of considering alternative uses for former agricultural buildings.

If the buildings fit the profile of size and location and are set well away from the farming activity with good road access, there is always the potential for storage or workshop premises subject to obtaining the necessary planning consents, which could generate useful rental income.

However, with a change of use to commercial purposes comes a liability for business rates.  When let the tenant will normally pay the business rates but it should be borne in mind that in the event of the tenant vacating, the landlord would be liable for the business rates levied on the property after a 3 month period.

Antony Stumbles MRICS
Partner: Commercial Property  
T: 01548 857474  M: 07989 472275
E: antony.stumbles@luscombemaye.com