Plot Inspections

If this is your first season or allotment then you may wonder what Plot Inspections are all about and how they impact you. Well let us explain the process.

Plot inspections, although sounding very officious, are really nothing to worry about especially if you manage and tend your plot on a regular basis.

As an Association we have a requirement to carry out Routine Plot Inspection to ensure that all plots are being maintained in accordance with the Rules and Letting Policy following the National Allotment Associations guidelines .

Plot Inspections are carried out three times a year - 1. Spring 2. Summer 3. Autumn.

The inspections follow a defined inspection tick sheet as detailed in the Constitution.

When a new plot is taken on the timescale for getting the plot to satisfactory condition will normally be: 50% after 3 months, 75% after 6 months and 100% after 9 months and maintained thereafter.

Plot Inspections follows a three stage process.

Stage 1 - Initial Plot Inspection carried out - everything in order - no further action required.

Stage 2 - Initial Plot Inspection carried out - everything not in order - In the first instance an informal chat takes place with the plot holder explaining the issues. Plot is then re-inspected on an agreed date. If the issues are resolved at the re-inspection then no further action is required. If at re-inspection little or no improvement has been made then an Improvement Notice Letter is Issued - Giving 28 days to comply with inspection criteria.

Stage 3 - Post re-inspected - Improvement made then no further action is required. Post re-inspected minimal or no improvement - Notice to Quit Letter Issued - Instructing 7 days to vacant the Plot.

If failures are repeated three times then on the third occurrence an automatic Notice to Quit letter will be issued .

In all instances a plotholder/member will be given the opportunity to provide an explanation for any issues raised. Any mitigating circumstances provided be will also be taken into consideration.

In summary - Plots should be in the main 75% cultivated dependant on the season. Clean, tidy, free from hazards and seeding weeds are managed as to ensure they do not inadvertently impact adjacent Plot Holders.

Full details of the inspections and the process can be found in the Constitution