A person with an interest in a property (normally the owner and/or leaseholder) can make an appeal against its rateable value if they believe it is wrong. You can appeal against the rateable value shown in the 2000 valuation list, but you can no longer appeal against the rateable values shown in the 1990 or 1995 valuation lists.
If your appeal is successful it can usually only be backdated to the start of the financial year in which you made the appeal. You can appeal for any of these reasons:
- physical change to the property (for example demolishing part of it)
- A change in use of the property
- A change in the local area
- A change in the use of a nearby property
Who do I appeal to?
The rateable value for a property is set by the Valuation Office Agency, not the Council, and all appeals must be made to the Agency. You can appeal online and get more information about appeals on the Valuation Office Agency's website (External link).
Do I have to pay my bill during an appeal?
You must continue to pay the rates requested on your bill even if you have made an appeal. We will automatically refund any overpayment to you as soon as the Valuation Office tells us your appeal has been successful. We will also pay you interest (at the rate set by the Government) on the amount that you have overpaid.
If we have to take legal action against you to make you pay your bill, you will loose the right to be paid interest.
Will transitional phasing affect my appeal?
Transitional phasing means that the amount a bill can increase or reduce after a revaluation is restricted. If your property is subject to transitional phasing it means your bill is based on the previous year's bill and not your current rateable value.
This means that even if your appeal is successful in reducing your rateable value, the actual amount you have to pay may not change.
Should I appoint a rating consultant or adviser?
You do not need to appoint an agent to deal with your appeal, but if you are considering using an agent you should be aware of the following information.
There are many reputable companies that will act as agent to deal with your appeal and they can offer expert professional advice which could help you to make a successful appeal. However, in recent years there have also been a number of 'cowboy' companies, who promise to obtain large reductions, but offer less than professional service and advice.
If you are thinking about employing an agent or consultant to act on your behalf you may want to consider appointing an agent who is a member of a recognised professional organisation such as:
