Business rates are payable for your right to occupy commercial property. It is based on rental values and in accordance with Local Government Finance Act 1988.
In England, the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) reassesses the rateable value of every non-domestic property at each revaluation, which now takes place every three years. The current 2026 rating list took effect on 1 April 2026 and is based on rental values at the valuation date of 1 April 2024. The next revaluation is expected on 1 April 2029.
AJA have extensive experience valuing commercial properties, which we use to check that your rateable value, and therefore the business rates you pay, is correct. We are happy to assess and review your property’s rateable value and, where the evidence supports it, take it through the VOA’s Check, Challenge, Appeal process.
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The VOA sets your rateable value, which is broadly the annual rent the property could have been let for on the open market at the valuation date (1 April 2024 for the 2026 list). Your business rates bill is then worked out by multiplying the rateable value by the multiplier the government sets each year, before any reliefs. From April 2026 there are separate multipliers for smaller properties, standard properties, retail, hospitality and leisure properties, and properties with a rateable value of £500,000 or more.
Yes, there are two main routes. First, check whether you qualify for a relief, such as small business rate relief, which your local council administers. Second, if you think your rateable value is too high, it can be challenged through the VOA’s Check, Challenge, Appeal process. We can review the valuation evidence and advise whether a challenge is worthwhile.
