Opticians gets a clearer view of savings with RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Opticians | Lancashire
Specialising in retail sales related to eye care and other human health services, providing optician services, including eyewear sales and eye health assessments.
KEY
FACTS
28%
REDUCTION
BASED IN
LANCASHIRE
BACKDATED
SAVINGS
TO 1ST APRIL 2023
The Client
Our client operates from a commercial property located at Hope Terrace, Lostock Hall, Preston. As a reliable service provider within its industry, the business has built a strong local reputation.
The Preston site combines both office and workshop spaces. Given their focus on precision, the client grew concerned that their business rates were being calculated based on a larger footprint than they truly occupied.
The Problem
The original business rates assessment relied on incorrect zoning data. Specifically, a structural wall separating two distinct areas had been misinterpreted. The valuation extended beyond this wall, which violated the RICS Code of Measuring Practice—the standard guideline for correct zoning in property assessments.
While earlier assessments by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) had correctly measured up to the structural divide, the most recent valuation incorrectly included additional space. Because of this, the client ended up paying business rates for areas they didn’t actually use, which inflated their Rateable Value (RV) and increased their operational costs.
The Solution
To resolve the issue, RVA Surveyors carried out a comprehensive on-site inspection of the property. We reviewed floor plans and zoning details while referencing the RICS Code of Measuring Practice. Through this review, we confirmed that the survey data had overextended the valuation beyond the actual workspace.
Armed with this information, we prepared a detailed case that clearly outlined the zoning error and its financial impact. First, we submitted a check to the VOA requesting a re-evaluation based on accurate zoning. Then, after reviewing feedback from the initial submission, we filed a second check, adding further clarification and evidence.
The Outcome
Following a re-inspection by the VOA, the caseworker acknowledged the zoning discrepancies. The new assessment correctly applied zoning rules, excluding areas beyond the structural wall. As a result, the Rateable Value was significantly reduced.
The updated valuation accurately reflected the client’s actual use of space, eliminating previous overpayments. This adjustment led to substantial cost savings, ensuring that the client now pays only for the space they genuinely occupy.
Savings achieved: £3,809
Surveyor comment
“After reviewing the property’s zoning, it was clear that an error had been made in the survey data, which had led to an inflated rateable value.”
