Rating Consultancy

All non-domestic properties in England and Wales are given a rateable value by the Valuation Officer. The current rating list is the 2017 list which commenced on 1st April 2017 and will expire on 31st March 2022. The assessment is based on a rental valuation of the property as at 1st April 2015, assuming hypothetical lease terms set down in statute.

The valuation of buildings for rating purposes is notoriously complex – but we can help. We have a thorough understanding of the valuation principles involved. We also have a firm grasp of the relevant Acts of Parliament and case law.

Phil Sani worked for the Valuation Office for four years, firstly in Yorkshire and then in London, between 1992 and 1996. This has given him invaluable knowledge and understanding of how ‘the other side’ works. From 1996 to 2008 Phil worked in private practice for a professional firm based in Kent. Philip Sani Chartered Surveyors was launched in 2008 and has not looked back since.

Based in Bath, Phil has been negotiating reductions in rating liability for clients in the industrial, retail, office and licensed property sectors. During this time clients have benefited from his thorough understanding of the rating system and his strong negotiating skills and tenacity. We offer a professional, client focused service. We aim to reduce your liability and increase your bottom line.

Our service includes a full inspection of the property, a thorough examination of your own lease terms, analysis of the comparable rental evidence and negotiating with the Valuation Officer. If a negotiated settlement is not reached we are able to prepare and present a case to the Valuation Tribunal on your behalf.

Any reduction in rateable value will normally take effect from 1st April 2017 and last to the end of this rating list on 31st March 2022. Our fee will be performance related and based on a percentage of the saving secured for you. Depending on our initial assessment of your case we are likely to be able to offer you a no win/no fee service. Payment of our invoice is due only after you have received your own savings from your local council.

Phil Sani’s agent code for 2017 list rating appeals is 37161

If you have a rating liability that you have not had professionally checked then be proactive and ensure you are not being overcharged. Contact Phil Sani today for friendly professional advice.

Empty Rates

From 1st April 2008 the Rating (Empty Properties) Act 2007 came into force in England and Wales and radically altered the empty rate rules.

Whereas under the old regime empty industrial properties were entirely rate free they now have just six months exemption before full rates are payable. For non-industrial properties the exemption period is just three months before full rates are payable.

Phil Sani has been securing savings for clients in respect of empty rates since the changes were introduced.
Successful strategies have included: