The Valuation Office Agency has temporarily suspended business rates agents Rateable Value Experts and Re-Rates UK pending an investigation of a potential serious breach of agent standards.
The suspension means we will not work with, or accept any information from, these agents while we investigate the potential breach.
A spokesman for the VOA said: “We have written to affected customers, and cannot comment further while investigations are ongoing.
“Our VOA agent standards set out clear expectations for agents regarding their behaviour, their professional practice, and the service they provide to their customers.
“We take breaches of our agent standards very seriously and will always take action if we substantiate a breach of the standards.”
The VOA urges caution about any agent who:
- tries to pressure you to make a decision or sign a contract
- says they are acting on behalf of the VOA or forwards emails they claim are from the VOA
- demands large sums of money up front
- makes claims about ‘unclaimed credits’ or similar
The spokesman added: “You don’t have to use an agent to manage your business rates. You can challenge your rateable value through our online service. This service is free to use.
“If you want an agent to manage your business rates, use our checklist to choose an agent. Don’t let an agent choose you.”
