How do I assess a stable’s hay supply and feed contract reliability?

List every feed source. For hay, ask whether it is grown on the property, cut by a neighbour or bought from a dealer, and how much is stored at the moment. Visit the hay storage and look at how it is kept, since damp or poorly stacked bales spoil. Ask how the barn managed in its last poor growing season, because that story shows how real the supply is. Ask how the stable pays for feed, whether on account or on delivery, and whether anyone has been owed money by the barn.

Then look at the paperwork. Get copies of any supply contracts or standing orders and read the terms on delivery, quality, substitution and what happens when the supplier cannot deliver. If the arrangement is verbal, ask the supplier whether they would continue with you.

Finally, test the numbers. Compare feed spending with boarder income across several periods in the financial statements, and look for months where spending jumped. Ask your accountant to help you read the trend. A second supplier on call is a good sign, and a seller who has never needed one deserves a closer question. Also ask how much extra the barn would need to cover if hay had to be trucked in from farther away.

Key takeaways

• Name every hay and grain source and how long each has supplied the barn.
• Read the contracts, and ask suppliers directly if they will carry on with you.
• Inspect hay storage and compare feed spending across periods.