A revaluation updates rateable values to reflect changes in the property market. The 2026 rating lists in England and Wales are based on open-market rental values at 1 April 2024, known as the antecedent valuation date.
The new rateable value is an important part of the calculation, but it is not the same as the final bill. The applicable multiplier, reliefs, transitional arrangements and the ratepayer's circumstances can all affect the amount payable.
Check 1: Is the property information current?
Review the address, description, floor areas and use shown for the assessment. Consider whether the premises have been extended, reduced, divided, merged, refurbished or repurposed. If the property changed after the valuation date, the timing and nature of the change may still be relevant to the current assessment.
Check 2: Does the rateable value make sense in context?
Rateable value is intended to represent an estimate of annual rent at the relevant valuation date, subject to the statutory assumptions. Compare the new figure with the previous assessment, available rental evidence and genuinely comparable properties.
A large movement does not in itself prove that the assessment is wrong. The local market may have changed. The important point is to understand the evidence and assumptions behind the figure.
Check 3: Has transitional relief been applied where relevant?
Transitional arrangements can limit the annual increase in a bill that results from a revaluation. Where a property qualifies, the adjustment should normally be reflected automatically. Review the bill to see how the movement from the previous list has been treated.
Check 4: Are reliefs and liability dates correct?
Confirm that any relief shown matches the current eligibility and that changes in occupation, ownership or use have been applied from the correct date. A revaluation year often attracts attention to the headline value, but dated adjustments elsewhere on the bill can be just as important.
Check 5: Can you explain the final amount?
The best test is whether the route from rateable value to the final liability is clear. If the bill cannot be reconciled to the multiplier, reliefs, transitional adjustments and relevant dates, it deserves closer examination.
The Dunlop Heywood Business Rates Calculator can provide an initial estimate for many straightforward scenarios. A comprehensive review can then consider the evidence, property facts and bill in full.
A timely review can provide reassurance
Business rates are complex and the correct position is highly fact-specific. Reviewing the assessment does not mean assuming that it is wrong; it means making sure the organisation understands the charge and can act on any genuine issue within the relevant process and timescales.
Use the calculator for an instant estimate here, or contact Dunlop Heywood for a detailed review of your 2026 assessment and bill at Info@dunlopheywood.com.
