Step-by-Step Guide to Appealing Your Business Rates
If you believe your business rates valuation is incorrect, you have the right to appeal through the VOA (Valuation Office Agency) website. This guide provides a simple, step-by-step process to help you register for a valuation account, start a Check Case, and challenge your business rates valuation.
While you can complete this process yourself, we strongly recommend seeking expert support from an RICS-registered professional. Business Rates & Valuations Ltd offers a comprehensive business rates audit & appeal service to assist you in securing the best possible outcome.
Register for a Business Rates Valuation Account
To submit an appeal, you’ll first need to create a business rates valuation account.
If you already have a Government Gateway ID (for other tax purposes), you can use that to sign in without creating a new account. The system will guide you through any required identity checks.
Property to the Account
Once your account is active, you’ll need to “claim” your property to submit an appeal. Only the bill payer or someone working within the bill payer’s organisation can claim the property.
- On your account home page, you’ll see a box for “Properties.”
- Click “Add a property” and use the postcode to search for your property.
- Once found, select "Claim this property."
- Confirm ownership or occupancy details and submit supporting evidence.
You’ll receive a notification once your property claim is approved. This can take up to 15 days.
Check Case
The business rates appeal process is divided into two stages: Check and Challenge. Begin by starting a Check Case.
- Select the appropriate option for your Check Case.
- Follow the system’s instructions carefully, as submitting incorrect information may result in rejection.
- Provide supporting evidence to validate your request.
Rateable Value
After receiving the decision on your Check Case, you may wish to submit a Challenge Case if you believe your rateable value is still too high.
- Provide detailed evidence, such as property plans, photographs, comparable property data, and a statement explaining your case.
- To do this, click on Challenge Valuation.
If the VOA accepts your challenge, they will adjust your rateable value accordingly.
VOA’s Decision
If your Challenge Case is rejected by the VOA, you have the option to appeal the decision with the independent Valuation Tribunal. We recommend seeking professional help at this stage to strengthen your case.
If you prefer, you can make use of our Business Rates Appeal Service to handle this process on your behalf. Click here to learn more.
