‘Empty Rates’ can be applied to an empty property for a period of three months for commercial properties such as shops, offices etc.
A further three-month period is applied for industrial properties such as workshops or warehouses.
But what constitutes empty?
- ‘Empty’ can mean that either part of or all of the property is empty and there are provisions written into the Local Government Finance Act accordingly.
- Applications for empty rates relief can be made to the local authority where the premises is based, and it is awarded at their discretion.
- If an application is successful, you will receive empty rates for that property or parts thereof.
However, where a period of re-occupation has taken place, a fresh application can be made.
The period of re-occupation must be at least 6-weeks and must be for the purpose of the occupier.
There are numerous rates mitigation schemes on offer to occupiers of empty properties.
For more information and support, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our business rates experts.
