Independent Advice
The Government has sent up an independent practical advice website for businesses at businesslink which includes details regarding business rates.
Subjects covered are:
Introduction
Business premises
Working from home
How business rates are calculated
Paying business rates
Requesting re-assessment of business rates
Going to Appeal
Rating Advisors
Ratepayers do not have to be represented in discusssions about their rateable value or their rates bill. Appeals against rateable value can be made free of charge. However, ratepayers who do wish to be represented should be aware that members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation are qualified and are regulated by rules of professional conduct designed to protect the public from misconduct. Before you employ a rating advisor, you should check that they have the necessary knowledge and expertise, as well as appropriate indemnity insurance. Take great care and, if necessary, seek further advice before entering into a contract.
Links to further advice
Valuation Office Agency :- This is a direct link to the official Valuation Office Agency Website (VOA). Information regarding Domestic and Non-Domestic properties is available.
VOA Appeals :- Direct link to information regarding making appeals against your rateable value with the VOA.
Valuation Tribunal :- Provides useful information for those using the Valuation Tribunal Service.
Businesslink :- Provides independent and practical advice to Business owners.
Communities and Local Government :- Provides more information on how local government is financed.