The rateable values of all business properties are assessed by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) which is part of the Inland Revenue. Details of the rateable values of business rates properties are available for inspection at Exchequer House or by visiting the
Valuation Office Agency website.
You are free to make appeals to or seek advice from the VOA yourself; you do not need to employ a rating advisor. The VOA will ask you to make a proposal to alter the rating list. Proposal forms can be obtained from the VOA:
The Valuation Office
Unicorn House
28 Elmfield Road
Bromley
Kent
BR1 1LR
Telephone: 020 8315 2800
However should you wish to obtain professional advice, you can do so by contacting members of the
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the
Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation (IRRV).
You should be wary of false or misleading claims. We are aware of agents who do not explain that a reduction on a rateable value may not necessarily lead to a reduction in the amount payable. This is due to limits on how much rates bills can be changed from year to year under the
transitional relief scheme.
You should note that pending the outcome of any appeal against value, rates are due and payable as set out in the demand. If you do not pay the Council will take recovery action to collect any unpaid rates. If the appeal is successful then any overpayment will be refunded accordingly or offset against the rates outstanding for arrears or future years.