Ratepayers do not have to be represented in discussions about their rateable value or their rates bill. However, ratepayers who do wish to be represented should be aware that members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation are qualified and are regulated by rules of professional conduct designed to protect the public from misconduct.
Before you employ a rating adviser, you should check that they have the necessary knowledge and expertise, as well as appropriate indemnity insurance. Take great care and, if necessary, seek further advice before entering into any contract.
Please be aware that some ratepayers are being approached by companies that promise to act on their behalf to reduce their rates liability. Often after submitting Freedom of Information requests to identify potential businesses. A minority of these companies are subsequently charging fees for 'securing' access to existing reliefs to which the ratepayer is already entitled or to which they can apply themselves very easily and free of charge.
The Government's view is that these companies and agents are unnecessarily diverting business rate relief that is intended to help businesses into their own pockets. For example where little to no additional work is needed to obtain the relief. To support ratepayers in avoiding unnecessary fees of this sort, the Government wish to make you aware of this so that you know how to access reliefs for which you may be eligible.