The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has announced the temporary suspension of a third business rates agent, following recent suspensions of Rateable Value Experts and Re-Rates UK.
This action is part of an ongoing investigation into potential serious breaches of the VOA’s agent standards. The suspension was effective as of January 22, 2025.
Temporary Suspension and Ongoing Investigations
The VOA has suspended the third agent while it investigates a potential serious breach of its standards. During this period, the VOA will not work with or accept any information from the suspended agents.
Affected customers have been notified, and the VOA has emphasized that it cannot comment further while the investigations are ongoing.
Standards and Expectations for Agents
The VOA’s agent standards outline clear expectations for agents regarding their behavior, professional practice, and the service they provide to their customers.
These standards are in place to ensure that agents operate ethically and provide high-quality services. The VOA takes breaches of these standards very seriously and will take action if any breach is substantiated.
Broader Impact on Business Owners
The suspension highlights the importance of caution when dealing with business rates agents.
Business owners are advised to be wary of agents who try to pressure them into making decisions or signing contracts, claim to act on behalf of the VOA, demand large sums of money upfront, or make claims about ‘unclaimed credits’ or similar.
The VOA encourages businesses to manage their rates themselves using the free online Check and Challenge service.
Metrics on Agent Behavior
| Behavior | Warning Signs |
|---|---|
| Pressure Tactics | Agents pushing for immediate decisions or contract signings. |
| Fraudulent Claims | Agents claiming to act on behalf of the VOA or making false claims about credits. |
| Financial Demands | Agents demanding large sums of money upfront. |
Expert Insight
“The vast majority of agents are reputable and provide a good service. However, there is a small minority promising big reductions in business rates based on incorrect information. We strongly advise businesses to do their own research and explore different options before appointing an agent.” – Alan Colston, Chief Valuer at the VOA
This quote underscores the need for businesses to be vigilant and thoroughly research any agent before engaging their services.
Future Outlook and Recommendations
- Current Statistic: Three business rates agents have been suspended in recent weeks due to potential breaches of VOA standards.
- Forward-Looking Goal: The VOA aims to ensure all agents adhere to strict standards, providing reliable and ethical services to business owners.
In Conclusion
The temporary suspension of the third business rates agent serves as a reminder for businesses to be cautious and diligent when selecting agents. The VOA’s checklist and guidance on choosing an agent are crucial resources to help businesses make informed decisions.
If you are concerned about poor behavior by agents, you should report any evidence to the VOA immediately.
