Rating/Appeals

Business Rates are a significant overhead for businesses. Typically, business rates are equivalent to 45% of the annual rent of premises, an expense that, in the current economic climate, may affect not only the profitability of many businesses, but may also influence the viability of commercial propositions.

The calculation of business rates is complex and currently, the Valuation Office Agency calculates the rateable value of the premises, which is based on the hypothetical rental value of the premises that may reasonably have been achieved on 1st April 2003, or from 1st April 2010, the rental value of the premises on 31st March 2008.

Experience demonstrates the Valuation Office Agency and the billing authorities frequently calculate assessments using limited and on occasions, inaccurate information that may compromise the reliability of the rating liability assessment. On occasions, the Valuation Office Agency and the billing authorities may also fail to comply with the regulatory requirements for the administration of business rating assessments and the issue of invoices. Business rating assessments are frequently challenged and these aspects typically form the bases of successful appeals.

In order to deliver bespoke solutions to manage business rating liabilities, we are able to provide a range of services, in order to evaluate the potential for cost savings, and thereafter, to optimise the position of the client in order to achieve the maximum savings.

Savings

If you own or lease empty industrialproperty in England or Wales which qualifies for a 6 month rates void period, you could potentially save you up to 66% on your empty property business rates.

If you own or lease other other commercial property in England or Wales which qualifies for a 3 month rates void period, you could potentially save you up to 55% on your empty property business.