The 2026 revaluation has reset rateable values across the market, but that does not mean every assessment is correct. Where something doesn’t look right, there is a formal route to review and challenge it, known as the Check, Challenge, Appeal process.
Understanding how this works is essential for businesses looking to sense-check their position and take action where needed.
What is the Check, Challenge, Appeal Process?
The Check, Challenge, Appeal (CCA) process is the formal mechanism for reviewing and disputing a business rates valuation.
Introduced to bring more structure to the appeals system, it breaks the process into three distinct stages. Each step must be completed before moving to the next, and each has its own requirements and timelines.
While the framework is clear, navigating it in practice can be more involved, particularly where evidence and valuation detail are required.
Step One: Check
The first stage focuses on confirming that the factual details of a property are correct.
This includes elements such as size, layout and usage. If any of this information is inaccurate, it can affect the overall valuation.
At this stage, businesses are effectively verifying the foundation of their assessment. It is not about challenging the value itself, but ensuring that the data used to calculate it is accurate.
Step Two: Challenge
Once the facts have been agreed, the next step is to challenge the valuation.
This involves presenting a case as to why the rateable value should be changed, supported by evidence such as comparable properties or market data.
This stage requires a clear understanding of how valuations are determined and how to demonstrate that an assessment does not reflect the market accurately.
Step Three: Appeal
If a resolution cannot be reached during the challenge stage, the final step is to appeal.
This involves taking the case to an independent tribunal for review. At this point, the process becomes more formal, and the strength of the supporting evidence becomes critical.
Why The Process Isn’t Always Straightforward
If a resolution cannot be reached during the challenge stage, the final step is to appeal.
This involves taking the case to an independent tribunal for review. At this point, the process becomes more formal, and the strength of the supporting evidence becomes critical.
Why This Matters Following the 2026 Revaluation
The 2026 rating list has introduced new valuations across the board, reflecting changes in the market.
With that comes the potential for discrepancies, whether through outdated assumptions, data inaccuracies or differences in interpretation.
The CCA process provides a route to address these issues, but it relies on businesses taking the initiative to review their position and act where necessary.
Taking a Proactive Approach
Reviewing a business rates assessment is not just about identifying errors, it is about understanding how a liability has been calculated and whether it reflects the correct position.
For some businesses, this may confirm that everything is in order. For others, it may highlight areas where further investigation is needed.
Either way, having clarity provides a stronger foundation for managing costs and planning ahead.
How Dunlop Heywood Can Help
Dunlop Heywood supports occupiers and property professionals in reviewing business rates assessments and navigating the Check, Challenge, Appeal process.
If you would like to sense-check your position or explore whether a challenge may be appropriate, our team would be happy to have an initial conversation.
