Case Studies

New Build for Hyland Edgar Driver

New Build for Hyland Edgar Driver

Objective Hyland Edgar Driver, leading landscape and urban designers, were looking at options to expand their space requirements. They were [...]

An Unexpected Windfall for Car Giant

An Unexpected Windfall for Car Giant

Our client pocketed over £1.7m in back-dated overpayments and interest

Business Rates

Unravelling the increasingly complex world of business rates

What was already a complicated area of commercial property expense became even more complex with the rates revaluation in April 2010.

Calculation of rate bills is extremely complex with few ratepayers able to validate them and forecast future charges. Following the revaluation, bills are subject to transitional adjustments that vary according to rateable value and location, and whether the bills are increasing or reducing.

Most occupiers simply want to know that their rates liabilities have been calculated accurately, know their future position and be able to make financial forecasts with peace of mind that the situation will not change or throw up any nasty surprises.

Of course, for landlords changes in the law relating to empty rates have thrown up new problems, substantially increasing their outgoings. We advise on a number of ways in which to try to mitigate such situations.

Our business rates specialists advise owners, occupiers, developers, investors and public sector bodies, to assist them with forecasts and budgets as well as helping them to minimise their rate bills through a range of services.

We advise clients on the accuracy of their valuations and opportunities to reduce them by appeal. Frequently there are material changes in circumstances or events that can lead to a reduction in business rates, if only the occupant were aware of it. This frees up much needed money to improve cashflow.

Even when valuations are correct, there may be errors in the bills or their administration by the local council that lead to overpayment. A thorough audit might identify significant overpayments that can be reclaimed.

We check rates bills for clients, provide forecasts/budgeting advice, advise on temporary or permanent reductions in rateable value, act for them in rating appeals, advise on empty rates and mitigation opportunities, audit historic liability and ensure that statutory compliance obligations are met.

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Key Contacts

Please contact the Business Rates team for more information.

 

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