---
title: "How do I know what property restrictions come with a smallholding?"
description: "It’s important to check with a qualified solicitor who specialises in property law. They can provide detailed advice on any legal restrictions or covenants attached to the property."
url: "https://mortgagelane.com/guides/smallholding-mortgages/how-do-i-know-what-property-restrictions-come-with-a-smallholding"
site: "Mortgage Lane"
collection: "guides"
date: "2026-03-30"
author: "Joseph Lane"
category: "Mortgage guide"
reviewed: "2026-09-11"
reading_time: "2 min"
byline: "Joseph Lane"
author_credentials: "CeMAP · FCA authorised firm"
language: "en-GB"
robots: "index,follow"
---

# How do I know what property restrictions come with a smallholding?

It’s important to check with a qualified solicitor who specialises in property law. They can provide detailed advice on any legal restrictions or covenants attached to the property.

It’s important to check with a qualified solicitor who specialises in property law. They can provide detailed advice on any legal restrictions or covenants attached to the property.

[Rural mortgage](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions?term=rural-mortgage)

Specialist lending

A mortgage for property in a rural setting, potentially including land, outbuildings or agricultural use.

[Read the full definition of Rural mortgage](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions?term=rural-mortgage)

Back to overview

[Smallholding mortgages](https://mortgagelane.com/insights/smallholding-mortgages)

Related definitions

[Specialist lending](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions#def-specialist-lending)

·

[Mortgage](https://mortgagelane.com/definitions#def-mortgage)

## How do I know what property restrictions come with a smallholding?

It’s important to check with a qualified solicitor who specialises in property law. They can provide detailed advice on any legal restrictions or covenants attached to the property.

Your solicitor will review the title deeds to identify any specific restrictions, such as agricultural ties, which might require the owner to derive income primarily from farming activities.

Local planning authorities impose regulations on land use. Your solicitor can help determine if the property has any planning permissions that limit the type of activities that can be conducted on the land.

Some smallholdings have occupancy conditions that require the occupant to be involved in agriculture. Your solicitor can check if such conditions apply and what implications they might have.

Ensure there are no easements or rights of way that could affect your use of the property. These are legal rights allowing others to use part of your land for a specific purpose.

Certain smallholdings may be subject to environmental regulations or conservation designations that restrict how the land can be used or developed. Your solicitor can provide clarity on these aspects.

Investigate the property’s history to understand previous uses that might affect current or future use. This includes checking for any outstanding planning enforcement notices or unresolved boundary disputes.

By thoroughly checking these elements with the help of a solicitor, you can avoid potential pitfalls and ensure that your smallholding meets your needs and complies with all legal requirements. At Mortgage Lane, our team of specialist mortgage brokers is also available to guide you through the financing process for properties with specific restrictions.

[GET IN TOUCH](https://mortgagelane.com/contact)

## Talk it through with an adviser

Speak to a Mortgage Lane adviser about your circumstances and the next steps.

Published: 2026-03-30

Last reviewed: 2026-09-11

Source: https://mortgagelane.com/guides/smallholding-mortgages/how-do-i-know-what-property-restrictions-come-with-a-smallholding