Business rates are a large part of the cost of occupying any property, and there are many examples of businesses’ that have run into financial difficulty because of these high charges. The local authority assesses and collects business rates through the Valuation Office Agency. The calculation is based on your property’s rental value.
The last revaluation for calculating your rates was carried out in April 2010 and is based on rental values as of April 1, 2008.
You should check the calculation made on your business rate bill to see if this is correct. There are many opportunities for which you can appeal for a reduction or relief from these charges.
Does your business qualify for Small Business Rates Relief?
Relief is available to registered charities and to community amateur sports clubs. Do you qualify?
Discretionary reliefs are available to non-profit organisations, and this is judged based on set policy guidelines.
Is your property empty or unoccupied? Have you claimed relief from payment (3 months for offices and 6 months for industrial units)?
Has there been a negative impact on trade due to vacant commercial properties in the local area or major works such as road digging or other major infrastructure works such as Manchester’s Metrolink that have reduced the traffic flow and customer footfall to your business?
Do you still use the premises in the same way as you did when the revaluation took place? Is there a new layout or alterations? These could affect the way the property is valued.
Is my property’s rateable value overstated? If so, you may be able to appeal the level of value.
For a low-cost inspection and audit, contact the team at Roger Hannah & Co.