HMRC R&D Enquiry Defence Services
What is Enquiry Defence?
When His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) decide to investigate the validity of an R&D tax relief claim, the claimant’s handling of this enquiry is often referred to as Enquiry Defence.
One of many factors can spark an investigation, and they can be randomly chosen for review, but your defence can be the difference between a full claim being accepted or rejected, or worse, incurring a penalty.
Free HMRC R&D enquiry consultation
Get free HMRC enquiry advice, backed by 17 years of experience.
Our specialist compliance team are on hand to resolve your HMRC R&D Enquiry, ensuring the best possible outcome, despite the circumstances. We will take a deep dive into your situation and offer unrivalled advice and support.
Why it’s important to consult randd
- A dedicated compliance team – As a commitment to our current clients, accountancy partners and those who need ad-hoc advice, we curated a specialist team to handle HMRC R&D Enquiries. They know what HMRC look for in these situations and help navigate your business through these waters.
- A second opinion – We often find that enquiries are raised because the claim hasn’t been presented in the correct way. If your current agent or accountant has made a mistake, asking them to defend an enquiry usually makes matters more complex.
- Preservation of your claim value – Providing there has been no significant procedural error, we always look to protect 100% of the value of the claim.
- Minimal disruption – We ask for your claim documents and all HMRC correspondence. From there we will handle all further correspondence, allowing you to continue running your business.
What our R&D enquiry support includes
There are various reasons why companies benefit from working with an experienced R&D tax specialist such as randd:
1. Free initial assessment
A no-obligation review of your enquiry notice and R&D submission.
2. Time constraints
Develop scenario-based response plans to counter HMRC challenges.
3. Uncertainty around qualifying costs
Gather and prepare necessary technical evidence, cost breakdowns, and narrative support.
4. Hands-on HMRC management
Draft and submit responses, coordinate meetings, and submit requested evidence.
5. Tribunal & appeals
If needed, we guide you through internal reviews, ADR, or First-Tier Tribunal preparation.
6. Post-enquiry guidance
Learn from the experience to strengthen future R&D claims, reducing the risk of repeat scrutiny.
How our process works
1. Speak to an HMRC R&D enquiry expert – No-charge initial consultation.
2. Complete a discovery review – Analyse your claim and HMRC’s concerns.
3. Launch the defence – We draft responses, coordinate with HMRC, and manage the full process.
4. Achieve resolution – Whether the enquiry closes, is amended, or heads to appeal, we support every step.
Our success stories
“randd did really well in supporting both HMRC and us to find a reasonable solution and save time. They really were instrumental in speeding up communication and making things happen – I have absolutely no idea how many years it would have lasted without randd. We got professional help from the randd team, and this means a lot to us.”
Dr Sinisa Slijepcevic, Cantab Pi
“randd provided exceptional support throughout the compliance check. When HMRC raised detailed technical queries, randd responded with thorough, well-evidenced explanations. Their understanding of the guidelines and ability to articulate complex technology and our technological advance was invaluable in successfully defending our claim.”
Del Delaronde, Motive XQ Ltd
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It varies, but typical HMRC R&D enquiries take between 3–9 months, depending on complexity and whether appeals are needed.
We not only defend your current claim but help ensure your future R&D submissions are more robust, so you’re better positioned going forward.
Due to variables in HMRC scrutiny we cannot guarantee an outcome, but we commit to delivering professional, evidence-based representation, putting you in the strongest possible position.