Reforming Business Rates Appeals: Consultation on Draft Regulations

It is widely accepted that the current business rates appeal system has been in need of reform for some time.

There is a growing demand for a greater transparency among businesses and this coupled with a large backlog of appeals from the 2010 valuation increases the pressure on VOAs resources as we approach 2017, which is the date of the next revaluation.

Currently, the VOA does not provide rental evidence and analysis to arrive at rateable values.  In the future, this will change so as to discourage appeals.

However, a clear and transparent system for an appeals process is proposed and this is to be welcomed.  There are fines for small businesses who provide false information in the appeal process and it is difficult to argue against such a proposal.  Conversely, there is a fast tracked appeals package for small businesses and this is to be equally welcomed.

Although we at Scrivener Tibbatts do not specialise in rating or in rating appeals, we are, of course, available to assist any potential client who might need assistance in this area.  Please contact us at:  www.scrivenertibbatts.co.uk