Case study:

Fencing Supplier | West Midlands

Specialising in the manufacture, supply, and installation of various fencing products, including garden, decorative, and security fencing.

KEY
FACTS

FIVE MONTHS 
ACHIEVED IN

£3,085 
SAVINGS

Office & Premises
PROPERTY TYPE

The Client

Based in Halesowen, Dudley our client is a supplier of fencing and related materials, serving both trade and domestic customers. Their business operates from a commercial property, which includes storage facilities and a mezzanine area to support their daily operations.

With a strong reputation for quality products and reliable service, their premises play a crucial role in ensuring they can meet customer demand efficiently.

The Problem

During an inspection by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), discrepancies were identified in the property’s business rates assessment. While most of the recorded areas were accurate, there was a significant issue with the Ground Floor Store, which the VOA had assessed. However, on-site measurements confirmed that the actual space was different.

Additionally, a small mezzanine had been added to the property, but this change had not been accounted for in the assessment by the VOA. Although the space remained unheated, the incorrect figures meant the client was likely paying more in business rates than necessary.

The Solution

RVA Surveyors carried out a comprehensive inspection of the assessment and identified the inaccuracies in the recorded property layout. A submission was made to the VOA to correct the Ground Floor Store’s total area, ensuring it reflected the actual measurement through the Check, Challenge Appeal (CCA) process. The mezzanine addition was also declared, and part of the store area was reallocated to an Area Under Supported Floor (AUSF) due to the mezzanine’s presence.

To strengthen the case, supporting evidence, including photographs, was provided to demonstrate the necessary adjustments. Given that the space remained unheated, RVA also argued that the existing valuation rate should remain consistent.

The Outcome

Following the submission, the VOA reviewed the evidence and approved the corrections. The property’s business rates assessment was successfully updated, ensuring a fair and accurate valuation.

This adjustment prevented the client from overpaying on their business rates, reflecting the true characteristics of their property.

Savings achieved: £3,085 

Surveyor comment

“The mezzanine change wasn’t accounted for properly, so we made sure the VOA updated the assessment to reflect the actual layout.”