Empty Properties

Business Rates will not be payable in the first three months that a property is empty.  This is extended to six months in the case of certain industrial properties.  After this period, rates are payable in full unless the unoccupied property rate has been reduced by the Government by order.

In most cases the unoccupied property rate is zero for properties owned by Charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs.  In addition, there are a number of exemptions from the empty property rate eg Listed Buildings, Companies in administration and properties with a rateable value less than £2,900.  Full details on exemptions can be obtained by contacting the Business Rate Section.

The occupier of a non domestic property normally pays the Business Rates.  Usually this is the owner-occupier or leaseholder.  If a property is empty, the person entitled to possession will have to pay the rates in full.