Visual Effects Studio reduces business rates with
RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Visual Effects Studio | Camden, London
Based in the heart of Camden Town, London, our client is a renowned visual effects studio creating work for some of the largest streaming services and networks such as Netflix, HBO, Disney+ and more.
KEY
FACTS
£12,288
SAVINGS
Studio
PROPERTY TYPE
The Problem
Occupying a ground floor entrance and basement studio within a converted Victorian warehouse since 2024, our client’s property was incorrectly assessed by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) as lower ground instead of basement, leading to our client overpaying on their business rates and not reflective of the property they occupied.
On the main premises were also multiple basement studios, which were all within the correct scheme paying much lower in their business rates liabilities than our client. Additionally, lower measurements were also recorded across both floors, leading to a tone reduction from 123m2 to 118m2.
The Solution
Once RVA Surveyors conducted an in-depth inspection and collected the required evidence, a Check case was submitted. The VOA responded by stating their current information as correct and trusted their floor plan, and that they would not go any further with the Check.
However, it was requested that a representative of the VOA visit the property to remeasure and conduct their own in-person review of the property. This inspection would allow RVA Surveyors to prove the case of the client’s current business rates as incorrect, with a reduction in tone/m2 and ensure the client sat within the correct scheme.
The Outcome
As a result of the Valuation Office Agency’s (VOA) visiting the property, the Check was accepted leading to a successful reduction in RV from £54,000 to £47,500.
With the reduction in tone/m2 and property now sitting with the correct scheme by changing from lower ground to basement premises, our client was able to save almost £12,300 from the start of their occupation in 2024.
The success of this Check ensures our client’s historic, current and future business rates liabilities are now correct to take them into the new ratings list, and reflects the property type, size and location.
