SERVICES
Business rates consultancy
SERVICES
Business rates consultancy
We'll help you reduce, appeal and manage your liabilities.
With more than 55 years of experience, our Business Rates team consists of chartered surveyors and rate payment and audit specialists with an intimate knowledge of the rating system.
As business rates are based on estimates, the calculation is open to challenge. We'll help identify opportunities to reduce your rate expenses and improve your business' financial position.
Our business rates services
Challenge and appeal
Our business rates appeal specialists assess whether your rateable value can be challenged, and guide you through the intricate appeal process.
Rate payment
We offer comprehensive services for the management and payment of rates for single properties or portfolios. This includes detailed financial data and tailored reporting.
Empty rates mitigation
If you鈥檙e vacating a property or planning phased occupancy, we help secure the maximum relief available. In some cases, we may further reduce liabilities by arranging successive periods of relief.
Disturbance refunds
Should your business be impacted by nearby development work, we can assist with applying for rates relief and lodging appeals based on material changes in your circumstances.
Rate audit
Our experts can review historic rate payments dating back to 1990 to ensure they鈥檙e correct. If any overpayments are identified, we鈥檒l help you reclaim the funds.
Calculate your business rates.
Find out how much you should pay.
Frequently asked questions
What are business rates?
Business rates are taxes on occupied commercial property, usually amounting to around 50% of annual rent. As one of the largest overheads for businesses, they have a substantial impact on the bottom line.
What kinds of commercial properties must pay business rates?
Business rates are payable on most commercial properties including offices, factories, warehouses, shops, pubs, holiday rental homes, and guesthouses.
How are business rates calculated?
Business rates are calculated by multiplying the rateable value (RV) of a property by the uniform business rate (UBR). The RV is the valuation office鈥檚 (VOA) estimate of a property鈥檚 market rent at a specific time. We鈥檙e in the 2023 Rating List, with RVs being based on a valuation date of 1 April 2021. Various reliefs and adjustments can change the final amount.
Do I have to pay business rates for partial use of a property?
In most cases you鈥檒l have to pay business rates if you use part of a building for non-domestic purposes.
Are business rates set by the government?
Yes 鈥� although who is responsible differs from country to country. In England and Wales they鈥檙e set by the VOA. In Scotland it鈥檚 the Scottish Assessors Association (SAA), with the Scottish government determining the UBR, and in Northern Ireland the responsibility falls to the Land and Property Services (LPS).
When do I have to pay business rates?
Your local council will send your business rates bill in February or March for the following tax year.
Explore our business rates offering
Business rates revaluation
Use our interactive map to understand how the upcoming 2026 rating changes will affect your business rates.
Reduce and appeal business rates
Check or challenge business rates with our leading team of RICS-qualified specialists.
Business rates payment management
Our highly specialised team of rating surveyors and rate account managers to help you manage, submit and verify your rate expenses.
