Business rates: changes to your existing property or business
Property or business changes that might affect your rateable value and what to do if you think your rateable value is wrong.
The rateable value of a business property is based on its open market rental value at a set date. Changing your business premises can affect the rental value and so affect the rateable value. For example, the rateable value might increase if you build an extension, install air conditioning, or upgrade the property in some way. Changing what you do or diversifying your business can also affect the rateable value of your property. For example, if you start using part of your premises as a shop - instead of as a warehouse - the rental value might increase
Planning permission
You should check whether you need and approval before making any changes to your business property.
Property valuation reviewed
You should inform Land & Property Services (LPS) if you make any changes to your business property. If you don't, you might face a backdated increase in your rates bill. The most common alterations to properties include:
- extending a property
- sub-dividing property
- demolishing part of a property
You can apply to have the valuation of an individual property reviewed because you believe the valuation is incorrect; because there has been a change that might affect the value of the property; or because you want to apply for a valuation-related relief or allowance.
How to apply
Apply online
Start by . Search for your property by postcode, via the map, or by using the advanced search option. Once you find your property you can use this service to apply for a valuation review.
To submit your application you also need to include:
- your contact details
- the reason for your application
- the owner and occupier details (if different from applicant)
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After submitting your application
You will receive an acknowledgement email within 15 minutes of submission and a confirmation email within 24 - 48 hours. This will contain your application reference number and next steps.
If you are applying for a valuation-related relief or allowance you may receive a link to a questionnaire in your confirmation email. This questionnaire must be completed and returned within two weeks of submitting your application for a valuation review of your application may not be considered.
By post or email
You can apply for a domestic or non-domestic valuation review by post or email by filling in the . The return address and email information can be found on the form.
A valuation review can take up to 90 days to complete. A Valuer from LPS Valuation will contact you in due course to discuss your application and arrange an inspection of the property, if this is needed.
Once a decision on the valuation of the property is made, a Certificate of Valuation will be issued to you. If the valuation increases or decreases, the impact on your rate bill will be assessed and a revised rate bill will be issued.
Appeal your rating valuation
If you think the valuation is incorrect, you have 28 days to appeal this decision. Alternatively, you can employ a rating agent, at your own cost, who will act on your behalf to handle any queries about your rateable value.
Historic property valuations
LPS also allows you to check a previous property valuation (1 April 2007 to 31 March 2023) for your non-domestic property.
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Further information
If you have a query regarding your business rates, .