Small business rate relief
Properties with a low rateable value can qualify for substantial or full relief, usually where the business occupies a single property. It is not always applied automatically — check your bill and ask the council directly.
Sector and situation-specific schemes
Several other reliefs exist and are commonly overlooked.
- Retail, hospitality and leisure relief where schemes are running
- Rural rate relief for the last shop or pub in a settlement
- Charitable and community amateur sports club relief
- Empty property relief during void periods
- Hardship relief at the council's discretion
Challenge the rateable value
If your property's rateable value looks wrong compared to similar premises, you can check and challenge it through the Valuation Office Agency. Be cautious of firms cold-calling with contingency fees; the process is free to start yourself.
Want this reviewed for your business?
Send us a recent bill and a consultant from our Cardiff office will tell you, honestly, whether you are paying more than you need to.