My bill feels too high
Your property’s rateable value and the details behind it may be worth checking.
Independent business rates support
Think your business rates are too high?
Let’s take a closer look.
A high rates bill can put real pressure on a business. Tell us about your property and we’ll connect you with a surveyor who can look at your valuation and explain what may be possible.
Start with a bill or a few details. No need to prepare an appeal today.
START HERE · ABOUT 2 MINUTES
Let’s look at your rates.
Choose the easiest way to get in touch. A surveyor can ask for anything else they need later.
01 Your situation first
02 A surveyor reviews the details
03 Clear next steps if there’s a case
Why the bill may be wrong
Even a correctly calculated bill can start with the wrong valuation.
In England and Wales, the Valuation Office sets the property’s rateable value and your council uses it to calculate your bill. If the property details or valuation are wrong, your bill may be too high. Councils can also make billing or relief errors. A surveyor can help identify where the issue lies and which organisation to contact.
How rates are calculatedDoes this sound familiar?
Rates are complicated.
Getting help shouldn’t be.
Whether you’re unsure about the valuation or simply struggling with the bill, the first step is to understand what’s going on.
My circumstances changed
Changes to a property or its surroundings may affect the available route.
I may have overpaid
A corrected valuation or billing error may lead to a refund, depending on the facts and relevant dates.
A straightforward starting point
Here’s what happens next.
You don’t have to work out the rules alone. Share the basics and a surveyor can help identify which questions are worth asking.
Get startedTell us about your property
Send the short form, or include your current rates bill if you have it handy.
Speak to a surveyor
Your details can be reviewed to see whether the valuation, property information or billing needs a closer look.
Understand your options
If there are grounds to act, the surveyor can explain the appropriate route, evidence and possible next steps.
A careful case starts with the facts
Good information gives your case a better start.
For properties in England and Wales, changing a rateable value normally begins with checking the property details. A challenge needs grounds and supporting evidence. If a challenge decision is disputed, a tribunal appeal may follow.
That’s why it helps to understand the property and its history before submitting anything formal. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different processes.
Read the official guidanceUseful to know
Questions before you begin?
Do I need my rates bill to enquire?
No. Send your business name, contact number and property address. You can provide a bill later if the surveyor needs one.
Can I get money back for past years?
A refund may be possible if a correction or billing error means you paid too much. The period depends on the relevant rating list, the reason for the change and applicable rules. A five year refund is not automatic.
Can you reduce my bill today?
An enquiry does not change your bill. The surveyor can assess whether there may be grounds for a correction or challenge and explain the process and likely timescales. Continue paying your bill unless your council tells you otherwise.
Are you the government or the Valuation Office?
No. This is an independent private service that introduces enquiries to surveyors. For England and Wales, the Valuation Office within HMRC manages rateable value checks and challenges. Your council handles business rates billing and refunds.
Take the first step
Let’s find out where you stand.
A few details are enough to start the conversation.