Legal Definitions - landreeve

Definition: A landreeve is a person who is responsible for overseeing certain parts of a farm or estate. They attend to the maintenance of the property, including the timber, fences, gates, buildings, private roads, and watercourses. They also stock the commons, watch for encroachments of all kinds, prevent and detect waste and spoliation by tenants and others, and report their findings to the manager or land steward.

Example: In medieval England, a landreeve was appointed by the lord of the manor to manage the estate. The landreeve was responsible for collecting rents, settling disputes between tenants, and ensuring that the land was being used properly. They were also responsible for maintaining the property and making sure that everything was in good condition.

Example: Today, a landreeve might be employed by a large landowner or a conservationorganization to manage a nature reserve or wildlife sanctuary. They would be responsible for maintaining the property, monitoring the wildlife, and ensuring that visitors follow the rules.

These examples illustrate how a landreeve is responsible for overseeing and maintaining a property, as well as ensuring that it is being used properly and not being damaged or misused.