Speakers
Members' Conference Session
Brian Rees, JLLBusiness rates remain one of the highest and most complex operating costs for self storage operators, with ongoing reforms and valuation changes continuing to impact profitability across the sector. Brian, an industry specialist, will provide a clear, practical overview of the latest developments in business rates and their implications for your business. The session will cover recent policy changes, valuation methods, revaluations, relief schemes, and appeal processes, helping operators understand how their assessments are calculated and where potential savings may exist. Attendees will gain insight into how to review their current liabilities, challenge incorrect valuations, and plan effectively for future changes. The presentation will also highlight common pitfalls, emerging risks, and best practice for managing business rates strategically.
Brian has been involved in dealing with business rate assessments on self storage properties since 1986. He was actively involved in central discussions with the Valuation Office in agreeing the basis of assessment for this specialist class of property. Whilst initially dealing with self storage buildings he has in recent years started to look more closely at container sites. This is of particular relevance under the Government’s proposal to introduce a ‘Duty to Notify’.