Hellier Langston was instructed to review the business rates liability for three floors of County Gates House in Poole on behalf of EPM Agency, following significant refurbishment challenges that left the premises unfit for occupation.

The Requirement

EPM, a prominent regional marketing firm, leased three floors of County Gates House in October 2023. During refurbishment, extensive building defects were discovered, including water penetration, mould issues, and failing window seals. The defects left the premises unoccupiable for over a year, as remedial works were undertaken by the landlord.

Despite these issues, the floors remained in the business rates list, meaning EPM was liable for rates on space that could not be used.

The Challenges

• Premises were effectively unoccupiable due to major defects and ongoing landlord-led remedial works.
• Business rates liability continued despite the floors being unusable.
• Navigating the complex business rates system to secure a rebate quickly.

The Solution

Hellier Langston inspected the site, reviewed project documentation, and assessed the scope and timescales of the works. They advised that the premises could be removed from the Rating List from the commencement of the refurbishment works.

A Check Case was submitted to have the three floors removed, and when a discrepancy in the Effective Date was identified on one floor, Hellier Langston recommended making a formal complaint to expedite correction, avoiding a lengthy additional submission process.

The Outcome

• The three floors were successfully removed from the Rating List, resulting in a six-figure saving for EPM Agency.
• The Effective Date error was corrected promptly, and a further rebate was issued within a month.

Jason Webb of Hellier Langston commented:

“Many businesses undertaking extensive refurbishments, or affected by landlord-instigated remedial works, may be entitled to have their premises temporarily removed from the rating list — but without professional advice, they risk missing out on thousands of pounds in potential savings.”

Hellier Langston continues to encourage businesses across Dorset, Hampshire, and the wider South of England to review their property situations, particularly where significant works are underway or planned, to explore potential business rates savings.

Team

Business Rates Advisory: Jason Webb