Business Details
Expert Business Rates Appeals & Valuations in Banbury
Leigh Franklin Surveyors is a specialist practice dedicated to business rates valuations, appeals, and relief. With over 25 years of experience in the field, including seven years working with the Valuation Office, we combine deep industry knowledge with a client-focused approach. Our services are underpinned by professional accreditation as a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and Corporate membership of the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation (IRRV). We provide tailored solutions for businesses ranging from SMEs to multi-site enterprises, operating on a success-based fee model that ensures alignment with client outcomes.Our expertise in forensic analysis of rateable values has delivered significant savings and refunds for clients across the UK, supported by testimonials highlighting our professionalism, transparency, and results-driven methodology. We maintain a commitment to ethical practice, with no upfront fees charged and payment only upon successful completion of appeals.
Services
Business Rates Appeals
Transitional Relief
Audit Services
Empty Properties Relief
Small Business Rates Relief
Highlights and features
- 25 years' experience in business rates appeals and valuations
- Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- Corporate member of the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation
- Success-based fee structure with no upfront charges
- Proven track record delivering significant client savings
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
- Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation
What people say
Expert in his field
Considerable ongoing savings
Professional and tenacious
Significant refunds secured
Delivers as promised
Services
Business Rates Appeals
We specialise in challenging business rate valuations through formal appeals. Our process begins with a free appraisal to determine appeal viability, followed by expert representation throughout the submission process. Clients only pay fees after successful outcomes, with refunds or credits received directly from rating authorities.
Transitional Relief
Our team identifies eligibility for transitional relief schemes that limit rate increases. We analyse property valuations against current thresholds to secure proportionate reductions in liability. This service ensures businesses benefit from government-mandated protections during valuation cycles.
Empty Properties Relief
We assess vacant commercial properties for relief eligibility. Our specialists calculate potential savings from reduced charges for empty or partially occupied premises. This service includes ongoing monitoring to maintain compliance with changing occupancy status regulations.
People
Leigh W Franklin
Chartered Surveyor
With 25 years' experience in business rates, including 7 years at the Valuation Office, Leigh is a RICS Fellow and IRRV Corporate member. He specialises in forensic rateable value analysis and success-based appeals for UK businesses.
Questions
How do business rates appeals work?
We first conduct a free appraisal to assess appeal viability. If appropriate, we prepare and submit evidence-based representations to the Valuation Office. Fees are only charged upon successful reduction of your rate liability.
What is transitional relief?
Transitional relief limits sudden increases in business rates following revaluation. We identify eligibility and calculate potential savings based on your property's specific circumstances and current government thresholds.
Do you charge upfront fees?
No. Our success-based model means you pay nothing unless we secure a reduction in your business rates. Fees are only invoiced after you receive official confirmation of savings from the rating authority.
How long does the appeal process take?
Most appeals are resolved within 6-12 months. We provide regular updates throughout the process and handle all communication with the Valuation Office to ensure efficient resolution.
Can empty properties qualify for relief?
Yes. We assess vacant or partially occupied premises for eligibility to reduced charges. Our service includes ongoing monitoring to maintain compliance with changing occupancy regulations that affect relief entitlement.
