Metal specialists lowers business rates with RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Metal Specialists | West Midlands
Specialising in manufacturing and distributing high-quality metal products for a range of industries, including automotive and construction.
KEY
FACTS
5 MONTHS
ACHIEVED IN
£7,138
SAVINGS
Warehouse
PROPERTY TYPE
The Client
The client is a well-established metal processing company based in the West Midlands. They specialise in manufacturing and distributing high-quality metal products for a range of industries, including automotive and construction.
Their operations are carried out from a large warehouse, where various processing and storage activities take place. The size and valuation of the property play a significant role in determining their business expenses, particularly concerning local taxes.
The Problem
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) had previously assessed the total area of the client’s warehouse at 693.16m². Based on this figure, the property’s rateable value (RV) was set at £40,500. However, during our routine inspection, it became apparent that the VOA’s area measurement was not accurate.
Our on-site measurements revealed that the actual area of the warehouse was 622.43m²—substantially smaller than the VOA’s figure. This discrepancy raised concerns as the incorrect area had led to an inflated RV, ultimately resulting in higher property taxes than the client should be liable for.
The Solution
To address this issue, RVA Surveyors conducted a thorough inspection of the premises, documenting precise measurements to provide a clear and accurate assessment of the property’s size. We then compiled a detailed report, outlining the discrepancies between the VOA’s data and our findings.
This report, supported by clear evidence, was submitted to the VOA to request a review and adjustment of the rateable value. By presenting our case with factual data and expert insight, we effectively challenged the previous valuation.
The Outcome
Following the submission of our findings, the VOA reviewed the case and accepted the revised measurements. As a result, the property’s rateable value was reduced from £40,500 to £35,250, reflecting the accurate area of 622.43m².
This reduction in the RV led to a direct decrease in the client’s business rates, resulting in significant cost savings. The client was pleased with the outcome, as it directly impacted their bottom line by lowering their property tax liabilities and ensuring a fairer valuation for their premises.
Savings achieved: £7,138
Surveyor comment
“By providing the VOA with precise measurements and a well-supported case, we were able to secure a fairer valuation for the client, resulting in considerable cost savings.”
