How to appeal your Business Rates
Last updated: 4 December 2024
Next review: 4 December 2025
We charge and collect Business Rates based on the rateable value of a property. We do not set the value and cannot change it.
If you disagree with the rateable value of your property, contact the Valuation Office Agency (VOA).
Disputes against liability
You can only make a formal appeal against your liability, or against the amount we have charged you, in Court during an application for a liability order. We will only apply to the court for a liability order if you do not pay your bill.
If you disagree with your bill because you think you are not liable, or you think that the amount charged is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can review it.
You will need to explain why you feel you are not liable, or why the amount charged is incorrect. Make sure you include your name and address and account reference number. We may also need you to provide evidence to support your claim.
We will try and resolve the issue as quickly as possible, without the need for the matter to be heard in Court, which could incur further court costs.
If we agree with your claim, we will amend your account and send you a revised Business Rates bill. If we uphold our decision, we will explain why in writing.
If you still believe our decision is wrong and we start proceedings to seek a liability order against you, you must attend court. The magistrates will then decide if you’re liable to pay all, part, or none of what we have charged you. If you don’t come to court, the magistrates will find in our favour.
You must continue to pay your bill during the review.
We’ll try and resolve the issue as quickly as possible without going before a magistrate, which could incur further court costs.
If we agree with your claim, we’ll amend your account and send you a revised Business Rates bill. If we uphold our decision, we will explain why in writing.
If you still believe our decision is wrong and we start proceedings to seek a liability order against you, you must attend court. The magistrates will then decide if you’re liable to pay all, part, or none of what we have charged you. If you don’t come to court, the magistrates will find in our favour.