Rateable value and how to challenge it

Warning - please be aware of false emails claiming to be from the Valuation Office Agency.

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is responsible for calculating the rateable value of all non-domestic properties. They draw up and maintain a full list of all rateable values which can be found on the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) website where you can also see a summary breakdown of a rateable value.

Local councils use the rateable value to calculate your business rates bill. They are responsible for billing and collection of business rates. You must pay the instalments shown on your bill until any challenge you have with the VOA has been decided and a revised bill issued. Any overpayment will be refunded to you.

If you have any queries regarding a rateable value, you should contact the Valuation Office or call 03000 501 501.

Challenging your rateable value

As a business owner or business rates payer, you can challenge the rateable value of your property with the VOA, free of charge. You can:

• check your business rates valuation which confirms the facts about your property held by the VOA
• check and challenge your rateable value by explaining why you believe your valuation is wrong
• choose a business rates agent if you do not want to manage your business rates yourself
• get extra support from the VOA if you need extra support due to a health condition, disability or personal circumstances
• appoint a trusted helper to manage your VOA digital service if no one in your organisation can register for one

From 1 April you can only request changes to your 2026 valuation. The 2023 valuation list is now closed to new requests.

You don't have to be represented in discussions about the rateable value of your property or your business rates bill. However, you can request support from a qualified professional who is regulated by rules of professional conduct, designed to protect the public. You can enquire via:

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
• Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation

Remember to be wary of rogue business rates agents.

• Warning of false claims

Contact the VOA if you want to:

• find your rateable value 
• compare it with similar properties 
• check how it was calculated 
• report changes to your property 
• challenge your rateable value
• submit details of your rent and lease arrangements when requested

Contact us for questions about: 

• your business rates bills
• business rates relief and whether you're eligible 
• paying your business rates bill