Production specialist reduces business rates with RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Production Specialist | North West
Specialising in supporting TV and commercial productions by providing professional filming equipment and skilled crew.
KEY
FACTS
7 MONTHS
ACHIEVED IN
£18,203
SAVINGS
Studio
PROPERTY TYPE
The Client
Based at Metroplex Business Park Broadway in Salford, our client specialises in media production and broadcasting. As a television and video production company, they operate across studio, post-production, and administrative spaces.
Because these properties serve different functions, they often require tailored assessments. However, the client’s business rates liability did not reflect this complexity.
The Problem
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) had assessed the entire site as one single unit, even though the client only occupied certain areas. As a result, the rateable value (RV) was set at £79,500 a figure that did not accurately represent their specific usage.
Since the space was not correctly split, the client was paying rates on areas they didn’t fully use. Additionally, the combined RV meant the property did not qualify for Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR), which could have reduced their costs substantially.
The Solution
RVA Surveyors conducted a detailed inspection of the layout and confirmed that a split assessment would be more accurate. The occupied areas were clearly defined, with each functioning independently from the other.
Consequently, we compiled floor plans and detailed occupancy information to support a formal “Check” proposal submitted to the VOA. This submission explained why a split assessment was appropriate and how it would align with the actual use of the premises.
The Outcome
The VOA accepted our proposal and split the property into two separate assessments. As a result, the revised total RV dropped to £48,750.
Although the split assessments didn’t qualify for SBRR, the client’s business rates liability was significantly reduced. More importantly, they were no longer paying for unused space ensuring a fairer and more accurate rating position that supports long-term sustainability.
Savings in liability achieved: £18,203
Surveyor comment
“The split ensured the client wasn’t paying for space they didn’t use. It brought the valuation in line with reality and delivered meaningful savings.”
