Business Rates are a tax on commercial properties, based on their Rateable Value (RV) as assessed by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). If you own or rent business premises, your local council will issue a bill each year based on the VOA’s assessment.
Why does revaluation happen?
Revaluations ensure that RVs reflect up-to-date rental values. The current 2023 list is based on rental evidence from 1 April 2021 and replaced the previous list that took effect in 2017.
Without revaluations, ratepayers could end up paying rates based on outdated market conditions — either overpaying or underpaying relative to current rental levels.
When did the 2023 Revaluation take effect?
The 2023 Revaluation came into force on 1 April 2023 and will run through to 31 March 2026. Your local billing authority should have issued a new demand showing your updated Rateable Value under this new list.
What is the process to appeal?
Appeals under the 2023 list follow the Check • Challenge • Appeal (CCA) system introduced by the VOA:
Check – Review factual property details.
Challenge – Submit valuation arguments and evidence.
Appeal – Take the case to the independent tribunal, if needed.
The process is detailed and can take several months. We advise all clients to continue paying their rates while the appeal is ongoing. Any overpayment will be refunded if a reduction is secured.
Why us a professional agent?
The legislation allows only one Challenge per property, so it is critical to get it right first time. Poorly prepared appeals can lead to no reduction—or even an increase in RV.
We are Chartered Surveyors regulated by RICS, with over 15 years of rating experience, including inside the VOA itself. We understand the technical and legal complexities involved, and negotiate assertively to achieve the best outcome.
What is my new Rateable Value?
You can find your RV on the VOA website — or we can look it up for you and offer an initial no-obligation review. Just call us or send an enquiry.
Why choose Whitestone Commercial?
Specialist expertise – Business Rates are all we do.
No-reduction, no-fee – You only pay if we succeed.
Evidence-led results – We combine local rental data and valuation skill.
Fully regulated – We are RICS Chartered Surveyors.