Empty Rates and Property Investment

In 2008 the Government substantially changed the rules regarding Business Rates liability on vacant properties.

Rates are now charge at full liability after an industrial property has been vacant for more than 6 months. This exemption period ifs reduced to 3 months for other commercial property types.

In 2011 the Government significantly reduced the small property empty rates exemption threshold from £18,000 Rateable Value (RV) to £2,600 RV (now £1,700 in Scotland).

These additional charges at a tax rate (NNDR) approaching 50%, combined with a collapse of values in sectors such as retail, are a source of concerns for property owners and non-occupying tenants.

MUA is able to advise on the best way to reduce empty rates liabilities as far as is possible.

Property investment companies and funds are now attracted to MUA’s Rate Audit service where we have proved that our specialist rates management input is able to add value to the general property management activities carried out.