Sunday Times article about listed buildings

I've thus far resisted the temptation to turn this blog into a Mr Angry column, but I've got to record an element of displeasure about an article about listed buildings that appeared in the Sunday Times a couple of weeks ago.  It contained an incorrect statement about VAT, attributed to me.

A few days before it appeared, I had a call from one Rosie Millard who is apparently a journalist and media person.  She wanted to know about VAT and listed buildings, and I duly obliged with answering her questions.  The scenario she asked me about was refurbishing a derelict building that had been empty for a number of years.  I told her that this would be zero rated for 'alterations' and 5% VAT for repairs.  She was in a bit of a rush and I wasn't confident that she had understood what I was saying, so I asked her to let me see what she was going to write.  She refused.

Yes, you guessed, she got it wrong and blithely told the world that repairs to listed buildings are liable at 5% VAT.  And since then I have had a large number of calls from listed building owners asking me if I really meant what I allegedly said.  Needless to say, I have pointed out who the real culprit was.

I did email Ms Millard to point out her error, but she has not replied.

Rant over.  [Until the next time someone annoys me...]

Listed Property Show - 20th and 21st February 2010

Once again I am headed off to Olympia in London for the Listed Property Show, for two days of providing one-to-one advice to those who perchance own a listed building. In addition, I will be giving a couple of talks about the riveting subject of VAT, which will doubtless provoke interest, boredom, or even sleep in equal measure amongst the audience. If you wish to enjoy the other delights on show please do not be put off by the VAT angle. It is an interesting show, including talks, demonstrations and displays by craftsmen and others with a particular interest in listed buildings - and it's free!

www.davebrownvat.com

National Home Improvement Show - Earls Court

I have been asked to participate in the National Home Improvement Show at Earls Court in London, which takes place between the 2nd and 4th of October 2009. I will be part of the Listed Property Owners Club stand, in the Period Living Pavilion, and also presenting a short talk about VAT relief for heritage properties on the 2nd.

I will also be available to answer technical questions for part of the Friday and Saturday and look forward to seeing you there.



www.davebrownvat.com

Listed Property Show - 21/2/09 and 22/2/09

For the third year running, I have been asked to participate in the Listed Property Show at the Olympia Exhibition Centre in London. I will be manning a stand at the show, and also presenting a lecture each day, on the subject of (you guessed) VAT and listed buildings.

Apart from the obvious joys of VAT, the hall is packed with exhibitors who are engaged in pretty much all aspects of historic house restoration and maintenance. It is well worth a visit.

After the event: yes, an interesting couple of days, and if you missed it make a point of considering it next year - undoubtedly around the third week in February.

www.davebrownvat.com