Business rates UK: how to check and reduce your bill

How business rates are calculated

In England and Wales the Valuation Office Agency sets a rateable value for each property, broadly its estimated annual rent on a set valuation date. The council multiplies that rateable value by a multiplier set by government, then applies any reliefs. Scotland and Northern Ireland run separate systems with their own assessors and rules.

Where the bill can be wrong

Errors usually come from the property record rather than the tax rate.

• Floor areas measured incorrectly or out of date
• Parts of the property no longer occupied or used differently
• Two properties that should be assessed as one, or the reverse
• Reliefs that were never applied for

Reliefs worth checking

Reliefs change with each budget, so check the current position on GOV.UK. Common ones include small business rate relief, relief for empty property for a period after it becomes vacant, charitable relief and sector reliefs. Relief is not automatic in every case; many require an application to the council.

Check, challenge, appeal

In England the formal route is Check, Challenge, Appeal through the VOA's online service. Check confirms the facts about the property. Challenge disputes the valuation with evidence. Appeal goes to an independent tribunal. Be wary of firms that cold call offering guaranteed rebates for an upfront fee.

Business rates as part of a cost review

We look at rates alongside facilities, energy and property costs, because the same decisions drive all of them. Giving up an unused floor can cut rent, rates, cleaning and energy at once. See our cost reduction consultants page for how we scope a review.

Frequently asked questions