SPEED READ Preparing capital allowances claims for plant in buildings requires specialist tax and surveying skills. The method differs depending on whether the claim is for construction work, or for the purchase of a second-hand building. Claims for construction projects involve a detailed analysis of building costs, and the ability to measure and value building elements is often required. In the absence of a CAA 2001 s 198 election, claims for acquisitions must be based on an apportionment of the purchase price. Apportionment claims require specialist valuations of what it would cost to buy the land and reconstruct the building at the date of purchase.