The Environment Agency (EA) has released its latest report on farm inspections for the 2024/25 financial year. The data shows that compliance challenges remain consistent, with just under half of inspected farms recording at least one non-compliance.
Below, we’ve summarised the key figures, the most common breaches identified during inspections, and a reminder of what to have ready if you’re selected for a visit.
Inspection overview: 2024/25
For the third year running, the EA completed over 4,000 inspections across England. While the overall compliance rate hasn’t changed significantly, many of the same issues continue to come up, particularly around documentation and nutrient planning.
At a glance:
- 4,545 inspections completed
- 2,211 farms (49%) recorded at least one non-compliance
- 6,870 improvement actions issued
- 6,242 actions completed during the same period
- 884 enforcement responses (warnings and notices)
The chart below shows the eight most commonly issued improvement actions from the 2024/25 financial year. The two most common breaches relate to Farming Rules for Water, while the remaining six fall under SSAFO (storing Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil) regulations.
Top 8 improvement actions issued 2024 / 2025 | |
Nutrient Management Plan | 843 |
Soil testing | 831 |
Silage clamp – quality | 779 |
Manure storage – yard | 432 |
Yard – clean/dirty water separation | 425 |
Slurry store – quantity | 405 |
Oil storage – quality | 372 |
Slurry store – quality | 366 |
Soil testing and nutrient management planning
The two most frequently issued improvement actions were:
- Missing or out-of-date soil tests
- Incomplete or absent Nutrient Management Plans
Under the Farming Rules for Water, all cultivated land (including grassland) that has received fertiliser or manure in the past three years must have a valid soil test dated within the last five years.
These results should then feed into a Nutrient Management Plan that supports efficient use of nutrients and reduces environmental risk. While many farms already carry out testing and planning as standard, ensuring everything is well-documented remains important during inspections.
Further information on soil testing and nutrient management planning can be found here
EA inspection expectations
If your farm is selected for inspection, the EA will confirm what they’ll be reviewing and request supporting documentation. Sending this information in advance can help make the process more efficient.
Documents commonly requested:
- Nutrient Management Plans with soil analysis
- Risk maps and field records
- Drainage and infrastructure plans
- NVZ documentation (where applicable)
- Slurry store capacity calculations
Well-organised records not only help demonstrate compliance but can also reduce time spent on farm during the visit.
For more information, read our guide How to Prepare for an EA Inspection
Staying inspection-ready
While most farms already have good systems in place, it’s worth reviewing a few key areas regularly:
- Check that soil testing is up to date and covers all applicable fields
- Ensure your Nutrient Management Plan is based on the latest data
- Keep relevant paperwork easy to access, should it be requested
- Familiarise yourself with any updates to EA guidance or local requirements
How CXCS can support you
Being ready for an EA inspection doesn’t need to be stressful, especially when you’ve got the right support.
If you’re a CXCS client, our team will:
- Send all required documentation directly to the EA ahead of your inspection
- Attend the inspection with you, or on your behalf (if needed)
- Help you review your plans and records to make sure everything is in order
Whether you require a one-time review or comprehensive documentation support, our advisors are here to help. Contact our Agricultural Compliance team on 01981 590514 to find out more.