Business Rates

Business rates are a tax on the occupiers of (non-domestic) commercial property. The amount you pay is set by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) based on the Rateable Value which is set using rental value evidence. The amount of Business Rates payable is based on a percentage of the Rateable Value.

From the 1st April 2017, new Rateable Values have been introduced for all commercial property in England and Wales. The government has also introduced a new appeal system to coincide with the 2017 Business Rates revaluation known as ‘Check, Challenge, Appeal’.

Our professional team at Lister Haigh has the local knowledge and expertise to advise and guide you through this process. The new system is complex and could be costly and time-consuming for ratepayers to challenge their assessments without seeking assistance. We can help you minimise costs and maximise savings by using our services which include:

• Assess your business rates and advise on any reliefs available
• Undertake inspections
• Provide advice on the likely rate reduction
• Carry out the ‘Check, Challenge and Appeal’ procedure
• Negotiate a reduction with the Valuation Officer
• Make a representation at a Valuation Tribunal Hearing
• Apply for Small Business Rate Relief

Please contact John Haigh, at our Knaresborough office on 01423 860322 for advice and assistance.