The Valuation Officer maintains the Rating List and may alter the value of a property if the property's circumstances have changed.

You can also appeal against the value shown in the list if you believe it is wrong. An appeal can be made directly to the Valuation Office Agency for free. Appeals can be made online at the Valuation Office Agency website.

Some ratepayers choose to appoint an agent to handle their appeal. Many companies employ agents to act on a 'third party' basis in the appeal process, and represent businesses in negotiations with the Valuation Office.

Whilst the vast majority provide good advice for their clients, you should be on your guard against the minority who promise big savings in rates bills and may fail to deliver. Both the council and Valuation Office Agency advise you to look very carefully at the terms of your contract, ensure you understand exactly what you have agreed to pay for, and remember that a reduction in your rateable value does not automatically mean that your rates bill will be reduced.

All appeal queries should initially be directed to the Valuation Office Agency.

Successful appeals against values that came into force on 1 April 2010 are normally backdated to the beginning of the financial year the appeal was made. There are exceptions to this.

If the ratepayer and Valuation Office do not agree, the appeal is referred to the Valuation Tribunal (see the Valuation Tribunal website).

Appealing against your rating assessment does not entitle you to withhold payment of your account.