Zero rated vat rule Vs HMRC inspector

[Vijay]

I'm looking at hiring a concrete pump again for my next ICF pour. Under VAT notice 708, section 3.4.2 Goods on hire, it clearly states that the plant hired with an operator is zero rated where all the conditions of 3.1.2 are met (which they are). The pump company have said they are not allowed to zero rate the VAT as they were told this by a HMRC inspector. Why is there a complete contradiction of the rule, as they set the rule for the house owner but then tell a supplier the complete opposite. How can this be right?

 

Vijay
 

[newhome]

I guess the inspector got it wrong. Here’s the info from the HMRC internal manual that also backs VAT Notice 708. 
 

https://www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/vat-construction/vconst02740

 

 

[Vijay]

Cheers, can't get more black or white than that!! lol

 

I used the VAT online chat earlier, the guy reckons they supplier would have to listen to the inspector, but could not tell me any reasons that would happen. I've had to fill in a form for them to look into the matter now