TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF TENANCY

Please Note!

Barlaston Allotments Association Terms And Conditions Of Tenancy.

Allotment gardening should be an enjoyable experience! These rules ensure that all members can enjoy growing their own produce in an atmosphere of trust and cooperation.

GENERAL

1 Conditions of renting. No member/household may hold more than three plots. In certain circumstances the Committee may take back any plots held in excess of two and the holder has the right to decide which plot will be given up. Members wishing to rent additional plots must contact the secretary in writing and will be placed on the waiting list.

2 Payment of rent. Rents are due on 1st January and should be paid to the treasurer by the end of the month or prior to taking possession of the plot.

3 Sub-Letting. No tenant shall sub-let their allotment or any part of it to any other person.

4 Re-Letting of plots. Notice must be given to the Secretary before a plot is vacated. No plot can be transferred without permission from the secretary/treasurer.

5 Change of address. Any member changing his/her address shall notify the Secretary in writing.

6 Access to Site. The grounds of the Association are strictly private and only plot holders and those having permission from the committee are able to enter. Gates must be locked after the last person has left the site whatever the time of day.

CULTIVATION

6 Appearance and management. Each plot must display it's number clearly. At least two thirds of any plot must be under cultivation. Weeds must be removed before they seed and become a problem to other plot holders. There must be no accumulation of rubbish i.e. glass, plastic, or metal items on the plot. All such rubbish should be taken home by the plot holder. Bushes should be planted so that they do not overhang the paths or the plots of other members. Diseased plant material should be burnt or taken away from the site to minimise the spread of disease. Barbed wire must NOT be used. Controlled composing is encouraged.

7 Trespass. No tenant shall make any encroachment or trespass on another's allotment without permission.

8 Paths. Paths and roads must be kept clear of obstruction. The pathways must not be used for burning rubbish.

9 Trees and boundaries. Members are not permitted to plant trees on their plots. Boundaries and their upkeep are the responsibility of the plot holder.

10 Sheds. Sheds are not allowed on plots. Boxes for storing tools may be built provided they are not higher than 75 cm (2 feet 6 inches). Plot holders have access to the association shed and the wheelbarrows that are provided for general use. Members’ tools may be stored in the association shed. Please do not borrow the equipment of others without permission.

11 Water. No member shall interfere with the water supply, tanks or taps. Use of hose pipes is prohibited.

RESPONSIBILITIES, COMPLAINTS AND DISPUTES.

12 Responsibilities. No member should take any produce from, nor cause any damage, nuisance or annoyance to the occupier of any other plot or to any local resident, nor should they obstruct the paths of other users. If any damage is caused to the crop or the allotment itself then the Committee may ask the offender to make a payment determined by them.

13 Children. Children of members may accompany their parents only if they remain on or very near to their parents' allotment, and do not stray into other plots. The Society accepts no responsibility for any harm which occurs to any child on the site; parents are expected to be vigilant on their children's behalf.

14 Visitors. Any visitors a member may have invited to the allotments are subject to the same rules as the member. Whilst bonfires are permitted members are asked to keep them to a minimum, or if possible to avoid them altogether.

15 Fires. Any fire which is causing, or likely to cause, any nuisance to both residents or plot holders must be extinguished immediately. Burning any rubber or plastic is prohibited. We encourage people to be environmentally responsible whenever possible, so members should take such rubbish home.

16 Livestock. No livestock or bees may be kept on the allotment. Dogs are allowed on the allotments as long as they are kept under control and do not cause a nuisance to other plot holders.

17 Complaints. All complaints and disputes shall be settled by the Committee and they are empowered to take such steps as may be necessary .Their decision is final. If the plot holder does not comply with the Committee's requests or directions the Committee may, at the cost of the member, have any necessary work done or terminate the membership.

TERMINATION OF TENANCY.

19 The Association shall have the right to re-enter and take possession of the allotment of any member whose rent is in arrears, who does not keep their allotment cultivated to the satisfaction of the committee, or on the breaking of these rules.

20 Any matters not provided for in these Rules shall be resolved by the Committee.