Staying safe when meeting and inspecting land

Before you meet

• Verify identity: Exchange full names and phone numbers. Look each other up online.
• Meet in daylight: Schedule visits during the day, not at night.
• Tell someone: Let a friend or family member know where you're going, who you're meeting, and when you expect to be back.
• Share your location: Use your phone to share your live location with someone you trust.

At the first meeting

• Meet in public first: If possible, meet at a cafe or public place before visiting the property.
• Take someone with you: Bring a friend or family member, especially for the first visit.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, leave. You're under no obligation to stay.
• Keep your phone charged: Make sure your phone is fully charged and has signal.

On the property

• Walk the boundaries: Note any hazards like dams, old machinery, or unstable structures.
• Ask about neighbours: Good to know who's around and what they do.
• Check access: Make sure you can get in and out easily, especially in wet weather.

After the meeting

• Take time to decide: Don't feel pressured to agree on the spot.
• Get it in writing: Use an agreement template to document what you've discussed.
• Keep communication on the platform: Until you trust the other party, keep messages through CoFarming so there's a record.

Your safety comes first. If anything doesn't feel right, walk away. There will always be other opportunities.