This type of issue can often be resolved by contacting your local valuation office. You will need to find your property first, if you haven′t already done so.

The property being vacant is not a valid ground for an appeal on its own.

The rateable value is based on the property′s rental value at valuation date, not its occupancy.

We can consider reducing the rateable value if there has been a ‘material change’ that affected the value of your property and also contributed to it becoming vacant. If this is the case then you can appeal to have the rateable value reduced. You should mention any changes, including the date they took place, in your appeal.

What else should you do?

If your property has recently become empty, you should inform your local council as you may be eligible for empty property rate relief