For occupiers of any commercial property, rates are a significant outgoing - Kirkby & Diamond can help by making sure this is kept to a minimum. The rating surveyor can check if there are grounds for appeal, which may cover the pure valuation, a change of circumstances or physical changes to the structure of the building.
The amount of rates you pay is determined by three principal factors - the Rateable Value, the level of the Uniform Business Rate, and the amount of transitional relief.
The Rateable Value is set by the Valuation Officer on behalf of the Inland Revenue and may be open to challenge.
The Uniform Business Rate and formula for transitional relief is set annually by central Government and cannot be altered, except by Parliament.
The Kirkby & Diamond team are happy to offer preliminary advice or to assist in challenging your rates, including handling negotiations and appeals.