Business Rates - An Overview

Business rates, otherwise known as non-domestic rates, calculated and collected by the Council are the means by which occupiers of non-domestic properties make a contribution towards the cost of local services.

The Valuation Office Agency is responsible for assessing the rateable value of a property. To find out more about your property valuation or to compare it with others visit the Valuation Office Agency's website.

The amount of business rates payable is worked out by multiplying the rateable value of the property by the rate poundage set by the Government from 1 April each year. To view the list of past and present multipliers for England, visit the Business Link website. This page will also give an overview of what a multiplier is and how it affects the rates you pay each year.

Non Domestic Rates - 2012/13 Multiplier

Small Business Non Domestic Rate Multiplier - 45.0p                                                               

Non Domestic Rate Multiplier - 45.8p

You can read or download the explanatory notes which accompany the Business Rates bill.

 The following types of business rate relief are available.

• Small business rate relief
• Property empty and unused
• Charities and charity shops
• Not a charity but another type of non profit making organisation
• Rural relief in villages with a population of under 3,000
• Part of your property is not being used and is completely unoccupied for a short time
• You are suffering severe hardship. The Council has discretion to provide rate relief if you are experiencing hardship. Contact us to find out more.

Business Rates Deferral Scheme

The Government has agreed a Business Rates deferral scheme for 2012/13, similar to the 2009/10 scheme.

This allows ratepayers to defer 3.2% of their 2012/13 bill until 2013/14 and 2014/15. The scheme is currently going through the legislative process and ratepayers who have made an application by 9 June 2012, will see reductions in their instalments from July 2012.

You can see more information and make an application.

Need More Information?

For further information on business rates, please refer to Business Link or the Valuation Office Agency.