Steel manufacturer sharpens business rates with RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Steel Manufacturer | West Midlands
Specialising in the production and processing of steel products as a major player in the engineering and construction supply industries.
KEY
FACTS
5 MONTHS
ACHIEVED IN
£25,657
SAVINGS
Warehouse
PROPERTY TYPE
The Client
Situated in 50 Popes Ln, Oldbury, our client operates within the industrial manufacturing sector, specialising in the production and processing of steel products.
As a major player in the engineering and construction supply industries, our client manages significant operational facilities requiring constant evaluation of overheads, including business rates.
The Problem
The client’s property was assessed with a rateable value (RV) of £720,000. However, this valuation included the presence of heating within the facility despite the fact that heating had been removed from the premises.
As a result, the RV was no longer an accurate reflection of the building’s current state, potentially leading to an inflated business rates liability.
The Solution
Following a detailed inspection and review of the property by RVA Surveyors, we identified that the heating system had indeed been removed and no longer contributed to the building’s value.
We submitted a formal “Check” to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), providing clear supporting evidence to demonstrate that the previous valuation no longer aligned with the physical condition of the property. This focused challenge addressed a specific component of the valuation rather than a full reassessment, streamlining the process.
The Outcome
The VOA accepted our submission and agreed to reduce the RV from £720,000 to £700,000. This adjustment reflects the removal of heating and ensures a more accurate and fair valuation moving forward.
While the change may appear modest, it delivers tangible annual savings on the client’s business rates and reinforces the importance of proactive property reviews in high-value assessments.
Savings achieved: £25,657
Surveyor comment
“In cases involving large industrial premises, even relatively minor changes such as the removal of heating can have a meaningful impact on rateable value. By identifying this overlooked detail and engaging with the VOA through a focused and evidence-based Check, we were able to secure a fairer assessment for the client.”
