A wayleave agreement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a utility company that grants the latter the right to use the landowner`s property for the purpose of installing and maintaining equipment such as power lines, gas pipelines, or telecommunications cables. In Northern Ireland, wayleave agreements are governed by the Landlord and Tenant (NI) Order 1995 and the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.

If you are a landowner in Northern Ireland, it is important to understand the implications of a wayleave agreement before signing one. While most utility companies will negotiate the terms of the agreement with you, it is ultimately up to you to decide whether or not to grant them access to your land.

One of the key considerations when negotiating a wayleave agreement is the level of compensation you will receive for the use of your land. The compensation can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the land, the type of equipment being installed and the length of the agreement.

It is also important to consider the impact that the equipment may have on your land and any potential disruptions it may cause. For example, if you have livestock that graze on the land, you may need to make arrangements to ensure their safety and wellbeing while the equipment is being installed.

Another important factor to consider is the duration of the agreement. Some wayleave agreements may last for several years or even decades, so it is important to ensure that the terms of the agreement are fair and reasonable over the long term.

Ultimately, the decision to grant a wayleave agreement is up to you as the landowner. While it may provide a source of income, it is important to weigh the potential benefits against any potential disruptions or negative impacts on your land.

In summary, if you are considering a wayleave agreement in Northern Ireland, it is important to carefully consider the terms of the agreement and seek professional advice if necessary. By doing so, you can ensure that you make an informed decision that is right for you and your land.