What are business rates?

Business rates are collected by Derby City Council but are paid directly to central government. The government then re-distributes the money raised from business rates back to councils in the form of a grant.

The present business rates system was introduced in 1990. At this time all business properties were valued. A revaluation takes place every five years. The last revaluation was in April 2005.

Information about business rates is also available on the Valuation Office Website.

Who pays business rates?

Business rates are payable on most commercial properties, including shops, warehouses and factories. There are some non-domestic properties that do not pay business rates. These include farms, churches and parks.

Rates are normally paid by the occupier of a property. If the property is unoccupied then the owner or leaseholder will usually have to pay empty rates. Empty rates are charged at a reduced rate of 50%.

For information on paying Business Rates please visit How to Pay Business Rates.