Non-Domestic Rates

The non-domestic rates, or business rates that are collected by local councils are the means by which businesses and others who occupy non-domestic property make a contribution towards the cost of local services, such as roads, police and the fire service. Except in the City of London where special arrangements apply, the rates are pooled by central government and redistributed to local councils according to the number of people living in the area. This means that areas with very few businesses will not be disadvantaged.

The occupier of a non-domestic property normally pays the Business Rates. Usually this is the owner-occupier or leaseholder. If a property is empty, the owner or leaseholder will have to pay a reduced rate. In some cases empty property such as listed buildings, factories and warehouses, and those with a low rateable value are exempt from paying empty rates.

Non-domestic properties are business properties such as shops, offices, warehouses and factories, and any other property that is not classed as a domestic property. In some cases, properties may be used for both domestic and non-domestic use, in which case both Council Tax and Business Rates will be charged.

Our promise to you

Council Tax and Non-domestic Rates

Our promise is to provide correct bills at the right time and collect all sums due courteously and efficiently. We also aim to make payment as easy as possible for customers, with a variety of ways to pay.