If you think your business rates are wrong

Your rates bill is worked out based on the rateable value (RV) of your property. The RV is not determined by the council but by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), an agency of HM Revenue & Customs.

If you are unhappy with your business rates, you can make an appeal.

If you decide to make an appeal, you must continue to pay your business rates while your appeal is outstanding.

If you disagree with your rateable value

There is a new business rates appeal process in England from 1 April 2017 known as check, challenge, appeal. The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) deals with checks and challenges, while the independent Valuation Tribunal for England handles appeals.

If you think your rateable value is incorrect, contact the Valuation Office (VOA). You'll need to explain the reasons why you think your rateable value is wrong.

The VOA will compare your rateable value with similar properties in the area and consider any other reasons you have mentioned.

The Valuation Officer will notify the council of the appeal outcome, and a bill will be issued advising any changes if applicable to the amount payable.