One of the biggest growth areas for Vickery Holman has been the Business Rates Consultancy Service in terms of surveyors, turnover and profit we contribute to the wider Company. With demand for our services continuing to grow, we have an expanding team of specialist Rating surveyors across all levels, enabling us to assist Clients across the whole of the South West, including our expanded coverage offered from our Bristol Office.
Business Rates have been a “hot topic” of conversation over the last 18 months, with many businesses trying to minimise their liability during what has been a period of little to no income for some. I am delighted we have been able to help Clients in a whole range of sectors including the leisure and hospitality industries and the core commercial sectors. Reflective of the demand for residential property across the South West, we have seen an uplift in enquiries to mitigate our Clients liability whilst properties are undergoing development works, for example, where an office building is being converted to flats, and during void periods, where properties are empty and still liable for Business Rates.
With the introduction of the Business Rates Check, Challenge, Appeal system in 2017, it has become increasingly difficult for occupiers of commercial property to check the accuracy of their Business Rates assessment. This, combined with the minefield of reliefs available and rating case law, reinforces the importance of the support we offer to businesses and I am proud the expanded team are able to offer a complete service.
I hope you find the articles in this newsletter of interest. If you require any assistance with a business rates appeal, an empty commercial property, or a property undergoing refurbishment or redevelopment, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Rebecca Cook, Associate
Our Ratings team are on hand to help – please contact us here
