Logistics company reduces business rates with RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Logistics Company | East of England
Specialises in freight forwarding and logistics services. From handling the planning and coordination needed to move goods internationally or domestically.
KEY
FACTS
4 MONTHS
ACHIEVED IN
£8,043
SAVINGS
Warehouse
PROPERTY TYPE
The Client
Our client, situated in Mayne House, Fenton Way Basildon, operates in the freight forwarding and logistics industry, coordinating and handling goods across various transport modes.
The company provides tailored solutions to its clients and occupies a section of an industrial property within a larger shared premises. Their operations focus on efficient storage, shipping, and distribution management.
The Problem
Although the client occupied only part of the premises, the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) had assessed the entire building as if the client were the sole occupier. This misjudgment led to an inflated rateable value (RV), pushing their business rates far beyond what was fair.
In reality, the landlord retained and actively used the remainder of the space. However, the current valuation did not reflect this shared use, resulting in the client paying for areas outside their control.
The Solution
To resolve the issue, RVA Surveyors carried out a thorough inspection of the property. We measured and documented the exact areas occupied by the client and separated them from those still controlled by the landlord.
Next, we submitted a formal proposal to the VOA, requesting that the property be split into two distinct assessments. Our submission included up-to-date floor plans, photographic evidence, and detailed measurements. This clear presentation helped demonstrate the need for an updated and more accurate valuation.
The Outcome
After reviewing the evidence, the VOA agreed to revise the assessment. They created a separate listing for the client’s portion of the property, reducing the RV from £37,000 to £26,750.
As a result, the client now benefits from a business rates bill that truly reflects their actual occupancy. Not only has this provided immediate financial relief, but it has also brought the entire site into alignment with its real-world use ensuring both the client and landlord are assessed correctly moving forward.
Savings in liability achieved: £8,043
Surveyor comment
“We were able to demonstrate that the client was only responsible for part of the premises, with the landlord occupying the remainder. By securing a split assessment, we ensured the client is only liable for the space they actually use – a fair and justified outcome.”
