Business Rates & Rate Relief

What are Business Rates?

Business rates (Non-Domestic Rates) are a tax on properties used for business purposes, such as shops, offices, pubs, and warehouses. Even unused non-domestic properties may still be liable. Local authorities collect business rates, keeping 50% to fund local services, with the rest going to the government.

How Are They Calculated?

Your bill is calculated by multiplying the rateable value (set by the Valuation Office Agency) by a multiplier set by the government.

• Standard Multiplier: For properties with a rateable value of £51,000 or more.
• Small Business Multiplier: For properties below £51,000. Reliefs may reduce the final amount payable.

Types of Relief Available:

• Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR):
  • 100% relief for properties with a rateable value of £12,000 or less.
  • Tapered relief for values between £12,001 and £15,000.
• Empty Property Relief:
  • 3 months' exemption for most properties.
  • 6 months for industrial properties.
• Retail, Hospitality & Leisure Relief:
  • Temporary support for qualifying businesses like shops, pubs, and hotels.
• Charitable Relief:
  • 80% mandatory relief for charities and CASCs, with potential for full relief at the council's discretion.
• Rural Rate Relief:
  • 100% relief for sole village shops, pubs, or petrol stations under certain value thresholds.
• Transitional Relief:
  • Phases in large changes in bills following revaluation.
• Hardship Relief:
  • Discretionary support for businesses in financial difficulty.
• Improvement Relief:
  • 12 months' relief for qualifying property improvements.

If you believe you may qualify for any relief, please contact the Business Rates Team.

For more information on business rate:

Benefits, Business Rates and Council Tax Online | Stratford-on-Avon District Council