When Margaret first took the call from our Landowner Information Service (LIS), she was honest, she and her husband Jim were confused and apprehensive. A renewable energy company had approached them about potential development on their property, and they weren’t sure what it meant for their farming business or their future. Like many landowners, they had heard about renewables from afar but never had reason to deal with a proponent face to face.
Recognising the complexity of their situation and knowing that some conversations are best held at the kitchen table, the Landowner Information Service Officer (LISO) drove out to meet them in person. These visits allow a LISO to listen deeply, read body language and create space for landowners to feel comfortable asking the often-difficult questions that matter most.
Over a cuppa, Margaret and Jim shared their passion for their land and their desire to stay informed without being pushed into anything they weren’t ready for. They had received a draft options and lease agreement, its pages bristling with yellow sticky notes, evidence of their diligence and the many questions they wanted answered.
Careful not to provide legal advice or a personal opinion, the LISO focused on what they can do best: offer clear, impartial information based on experience across the sector, without disclosing details of any company or development. As they worked through the documents, it became clear that several clauses differed markedly from what Margaret and Jim had been told verbally by the developer. Their careful reading meant these inconsistencies were identified early.
The couple also shared concerns about using a lawyer, suggested and funded, by the company. The LISO explained that while RBS cannot recommend any specific firm, we can provide a list of practitioners who have experience in land access and renewable negotiations, allowing landowners to choose their own independent representation with confidence.
To help Margaret and Jim better understand what a typical agreement might look like, the LISO sourced an anonymised example from another project for comparison, always ensuring strict confidentiality. Seeing different approaches side by side gave them a clearer sense of their rights, options and the types of clauses they should consider more closely.
By the end of the visit, Margaret and Jim felt more grounded. They were not rushed, not pressured, and not alone. Instead, they had clarity, and the reassurance that taking the time to ask questions, seek independent advice, and understand every clause was not only acceptable, but essential.
Their experience highlights an important message for all landowners: due diligence matters. Renewable and resource developments can span decades, and no one should sign an agreement until they feel fully informed and genuinely comfortable.
Through respectful conversation, practical information and a steady, supportive approach, Margaret and Jim were able to move from uncertainty to confidence, empowered to make decisions on their terms, in their own time.
