About The Claim
Great Restaurant Project Ltd operates a high-end, Michelin-starred Mediterranean restaurant in London, comprising a ground-floor dining space and a commercial kitchen located in the basement. The claim was focused on significant refurbishment and fit-out costs across both areas. These included high-specification fixtures, bespoke bar fittings, and other quality improvements designed to elevate the dining experience. The types of allowances claimed included Annual Investment Allowance, Super Deduction and Structures and Buildings Allowance (SBA).
Our Approach
We began with a thorough discussion alongside the client’s accountant, reviewing expenditure and property details to determine the scope and legitimacy of the claim. Based on our findings, we prepared a detailed proposal outlining the expected claim value and how the allowances would align with the client’s tax profile. Once the client approved the proposal, our surveyor carried out a physical inspection of the property, creating an inventory of qualifying items.
The valuation process followed, using actual cost data where available, and BCIS data where it wasn’t, to ensure accurate assessments based on the year of expenditure. Our technical team then processed the claim by allocating items into the appropriate capital allowance pools. This involved identifying qualifying plant and machinery, as well as items eligible for the Structures and Buildings Allowance and Super-deduction. A key part of this process was distinguishing between chattels and embedded fixtures, which required careful analysis.
To further support the claim and help the client maintain clarity in their accounting records, we also provided an updated fixed asset register. This separated leasehold expenditure from movable plant and machinery items, improving long-term tracking of capital investments. Once we were informed that the claim had been successfully included in the client’s amended tax return (ahead of the 30 November 2024 deadline), we issued final reports and summary documentation to complete the process.
Examples of some of the embedded qualifying items that we found...
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Air extraction system and ducting
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Dumbwaiter lift
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Banquette seating
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External sun shading canopies
An observation from our Managing Director, Chris Roberts...
“Although this was a relatively standard leasehold improvement claim for a restaurant, the high level of detail and quality in the refurbishment made it more involved. Many of the fittings were imported and required close attention to confirm eligibility and cost accuracy. This extra layer of complexity meant careful coordination with the client was essential.”
“Capital Allowance Review Service was extremely professional and respectful of our day-to-day operations. Running a busy restaurant means there’s little room for interruption, but their team coordinated the survey perfectly to avoid any disruption. The whole experience was smooth and efficient.”
Daniel Koukarskikh | Director
“I was particularly impressed with how closely they worked with us to review and allocate costs incurred between the agreement stage and the survey. Their technical knowledge and collaborative approach made the process straightforward, ensuring the claim was both accurate and compliant.”
Sam Clark | Manager
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