Empty properties

With effect from 1 April 2008 empty properties will be exempt from business rates for the first three months they are empty. Industrial and warehouse properties qualify for a further three months exemption. After this period full business rates are payable unless the following applies:

  • where the property has a rateable value less than £2,600 (2010 Rating List)
  • where the property is a listed building
  • where the ratepayer is a charitable organisation or a registered Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC)
  • where the ratepayer is bankrupt or in liquidation
  • where the ratepayer is a company in administration
  • where the ratepayer is entitled to occupy as an executor of a deceased person
  • where the ratepayer is prohibited by law to occupy the property