Variation requests can only be accepted in writing (via the claim form, letter or e-mail). The amended contract/ SoI must enable the applicant to deliver the selected Regional Priority as set out in the outcome plan.
Remember that even a relatively small change to the contract might mean that the Regional Priority can no longer be achieved as set out in the Outcome plan.
It is expected that only the following types of variation will be considered:
- Change to timing of events/claims due to weather conditions, or other circumstances outwith the control of the applicant (see claims guidance)
- Variations to take account of technical reasons not foreseen at the time of contract return e.g. change of build/design specification but NOT to take account of planning or consent feedback
- Force majeure (as defined by Article 47 of EC Regulation 1974/2006 and as set out in the "Important Information Annex" to the Rural Development Contract undertakings)
- Changes required as a result of cross check failure or field register validation (FRV)
- Changes required after inspection of the work following receipt of a grant claim
- Claims (but not part claims) for less than the amount approved in the contract (e.g. fencing or other standard capital items not required)
- Changes of ownership or successions (subject to very specific pre-conditions)
- Applicants are expected to fulfil contract obligations, where a Standard Cost capital item has been deferred for sound agronomic/sylvicultural reasons. The applicant may lose the associated first year's management payments.
VAT increase to 20%
Due to the planned VAT increase to 20% from 1 January 2011, we are allowing any applicants who are not VAT registered to submit a variation to their contract to cover the increase in the eligible costs of the project, as the planned increase is outwith the applicant's control.