Valuation Office Agency Announces Updated Rateable Values for Commercial Properties
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has released new rateable values for all commercial and non-domestic properties across England and Wales, set to come into effect on 1 April 2026. This change is part of the agency’s routine revaluation process that aims to reflect fluctuations in the property market.
Understanding the Revaluation Process
Revaluations of properties in England and Wales occur every three years to ensure that local councils have a current assessment for calculating business rates. It is essential to note that a property’s rateable value differs significantly from the actual business rates due or the rental costs.
For detailed information regarding the upcoming revaluation, individuals can refer to the government’s official website at GOV.UK.
Estimating Future Business Rates
Property owners in England can now access the future rateable values of their properties using a dedicated service on GOV.UK. This tool enables users to estimate their potential business rates bill starting 1 April 2026; however, it primarily serves as an indicative gauge and may not account for any reliefs individuals might qualify for.
It is important to mention that this estimating service is currently unavailable for properties in Wales. Updates will be released once the Welsh Government finalises details about new multipliers and available reliefs.
How Business Rates Are Calculated
An increase in a property’s rateable value does not automatically translate to a proportional hike in the business rates bill. Local councils compute the bill by applying the appropriate multiplier set by the UK and Welsh governments to the rateable value, then determining eligibility for any reliefs.
The Welsh Government is expected to clarify details regarding multipliers and reliefs for businesses in Wales in the near future.
Actions for Property Owners
Property owners are encouraged to log into their business rates valuation account to:
- Review the factual information held about their property
- Understand how their property’s valuation has been derived
- Report any inaccuracies concerning their valuation
Additionally, users can compare their property’s rateable value with similar properties nearby and assess how evaluations are determined. Property owners have until 31 March 2026 to request changes to their current valuations. After this date, only modifications to future rateable values will be accepted.
Further Information on the 2026 Revaluation
Official statistics related to the 2026 revaluation are available for public viewing, providing insights into the adjustments being implemented. Property owners with any inquiries about business rates, reliefs, or payments should contact their local council for assistance.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/business-rates-revaluation-2026
