Metal installation specialist reduces business rates with RVA Surveyors
Case study:
Metal Installation Specialist | North East
Specialising in designing, manufacturing, and fitting bespoke steel and metal products—including staircases, railings, gates, balconies, canopies, playground equipment, security fencing, bollards, and structural steel components.
KEY
FACTS
6 MONTHS
ACHIEVED IN
£6,684
SAVINGS
Warehouse
PROPERTY TYPE
The Client
Based in LS9 0RQ, this client specialises in shopfitting services, working across commercial, retail, and bespoke interior projects in the UK. Their premises serve as a central hub for design, manufacturing, and project planning. Both office and workshop space are essential for smooth operations.
As a production-based business, accurate property valuation is vital. It helps them manage costs and stay competitive in a demanding industry. Therefore, it made sense to review their business rates.
The Problem
The client’s rateable value (RV) had been assessed using outdated or overestimated floor measurements, which no longer reflected the true extent of the area they occupied by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA).
As a result, the business was being charged more in business rates than necessary, placing an avoidable strain on finances. Moreover, the valuation included space that was no longer in use or had been repurposed, leading to a misalignment between the actual usage and the assessed liability.
The Solution
RVA Surveyors carried out a detailed inspection of the property, focusing on the precise measurement of the areas actively used by the business.
We compiled and submitted updated documentation as part of a formal ‘Check’ with the VOA, presenting evidence that the actual usable space was smaller than recorded. By demonstrating this change, we made a strong case for a downward revision of the property’s RV.
The Outcome
The VOA accepted the revised measurements and approved the proposed adjustment. As a result, the rateable value was reduced from £90,500 to £84,500.
This change reflects a more accurate view of the property and delivers real savings on business rates. Furthermore, the new valuation better matches the client’s actual space usage, giving them more control over operating costs and stronger confidence in future planning.
Savings in liability achieved: £6,684
Surveyor comment
“The revised measurement led to a fairer valuation and real savings for the client, aligning their costs with the space they actually use.”
