“The managing of business rates has always been complex, but I would say it became significantly more complicated around the time of COVID,” says Christine.
“The introduction of various relief schemes and new legislation changed the landscape considerably. However, I don’t think business rates have been more complex than they are now following the introduction of the 2026 Rating List.”
Introduced on 1 April 2026, the new Rating List and measures announced in the Government’s Autumn Budget have created a series of changes that businesses and local authorities alike are continuing to navigate.
A More Complicated System
From multiple business rates multipliers and changes to relief schemes, to transitional arrangements and updates to software systems, the landscape has become increasingly difficult to manage.
“The changes introduced by Government have resulted in significant updates to our own systems, as well as those used by local authorities across the UK,” explains Christne.
“With so many moving parts, it naturally creates greater complexity and increases the potential for errors and anomalies.”
Behind Every Rates Bill Lies a Sea of Regulations
While many organisations assume a rates demand issues by a billing authority is automatically correct, Christine says the reality is far more complicated.
“Behind every business rates bill lies a sea of regulations that determine how liability should be calculated,” she says.
“There are many errors and anomalies which often go undetected until they’re reviewed by an experienced eye.”
For businesses with extensive property portfolios, even relatively minor discrepancies can have a significant impact on budgeting, cash flow and long-term planning.
Greater Oversight Has Never Been More Important
As complexity increases, business rates management is no longer simply an administrative function.
“It’s no longer just about paying bills when they arrive,” says Christine.
“Organisations need visibility, accuracy and confidence that liabilities are being managed correctly and that all available reliefs and allowances are being considered.”
Looking Ahead
As the industry continues to adjust to the 2026 Rating List, Christine believes the importance of specialist oversight will continue to grow.
“The challenge for businesses isn’t simply paying their rates bills on time,” she concludes.
“It’s making sure they’re paying the right amount.”
Need Support with Your Business Rates?
With increasing complexity and ever-changing legislation, ensuring your organisation is paying the correct amount has never been more important. Dunlop Heywood’s specialist team provides expert advice and support to help businesses manage their liabilities with confidence.
Rates Liability Management Team manage ongoing portfolio liabilities on a dedicated, retained basis, while our Rating Audit Team handle all the ad-hoc, non-retained instances.
To find out how Dunlop Heywood can help your organisation navigate complexities of business rates, get in touch with Andy Upton at andy.upton@dunlopheywood.com or 07557 977309.
