Business Rates

This Council is responsible for collecting rates on all business properties in the Borough on behalf of Central Government. All monies collected are paid into a central pool and in return a grant is received towards the provision of local services. In 2012/2013 the total rates due from businesses in the Borough is some £44 million and the grant received will be £4.4 million.

Broadly, the amount you pay is calculated by multiplying the rateable value of your property by a multiplier set by the Government each year.

There are two multipliers, one for small businesses who have been granted small business rates relief (45.0p for 2012/13), and one for large businesses with rateable values over £18,000 (45.8p for 2012/13).

The amount you pay may be changed by any transitional or other relief to which you may be entitled and where applicable, these are shown on your bill.

Bills are issued in March, for the business rates due from 1st April. Your bill will show how your rates have been calculated and include explanatory notes which form part of the bill.

Useful websites for Business Rates information:

Independent support and information for businesses can be found at Business Link, which includes a section about business rates. You can contact Business Link by phone on 0845 600 9006, or by email info@businesslinksoutheast.co.uk

Valuation Office Agency who value properties and compile and maintain the valuation list.