He writes:
A lot has changed in the past eight months since storm Desmond and Eva caused such devastation to parts of Northern England. However, in spite of a new prime minister and a referendum, things are very much business as usual for the Farming Recovery Fund.
The RPA recently confirmed to me that they are continuing to process claims which are coming in thick and fast. But there are a few crucial messages to remember to ensure that flood repair works are done correctly, and the RPA have all the information they need to process the claim.
See also: First £1million paid to flood-hit farmers - GOV.UK press release
The absolute number one reminder: Read the Grant Funding Agreement (GFA) - the document you received and signed when the RPA processed your application.
It is vital that you fully read and digest the information. It includes the completion date - the date all work has to be done by and you claim submitted to the RPA. If you’re concerned about the completion date, or anything else specified in the GFA, contact the RPA in the first instance.
If the RPA agree to any changes from that stated within your GFA, they will let you know by writing. Make sure you receive this written confirmation, and save it, before diverging from what is said on the form.
Evidence is also crucial- such as photographs taken before, during and after repair works and invoices/ receipts. Again your GFA says what evidence should be provided.
For underground items- such as repairs to land drains- it is particularly difficult to get retrospective evidence of the work taking place- so make sure this is collected at the time.
So whatever world of uncertainty we are entering, one thing remains consistent, it is vital that you fully read your grant funding agreement.