Usually there are no Business Rates to pay for the first three months a property is empty. After that an empty property rate of 50% of the bill will be payable.

Certain types of properties are totally exempt from payment of Business Rates whilst they are empty and unused:

• qualifying industrial properties
• listed buildings
• ancient monuments
• property with a rateable value of less than £2,200
• property subject to insolvency and debt administration
• property where occupation is prohibited by law

Should your property become vacant, and you wish to make an application for empty rate relief, simply send the details in writing to us at the address on the right hand side of this page.

If part of your premises will be vacant for a specific period of time, or you are moving out of a property on a gradual basis, you may be entitled to a reduction. Under this scheme, the Valuation Office Agency certifies the rateable value of the occupied and unoccupied areas of your premises (known as a section 44A certificate). If you believe you may be eligible for this reduction contact us.