The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is expected to publish the 2026 Draft Rating List later this week. This marks the first opportunity for organisations to see the updated rateable values that will apply from April 2026.
For many businesses, the draft list provides the earliest indication of how future business rates liabilities may change. Understanding what the figures represent and knowing what to look for can help organisations prepare with confidence.
The draft list sets out proposed rateable values for all non domestic properties in England and Wales. These figures reflect changes in rental markets, property use and local conditions since the previous revaluation.
While the figures are not yet final, the draft list represents the VOA’s view of the correct valuation as at the revaluation date. It gives ratepayers time to review the information before the list becomes active.
Business rates are calculated using the rateable value of each property. Any change to this figure can influence future liabilities. In some areas, values may rise, while in others they may fall depending on market evidence used by the VOA.
Reviewing the draft list helps organisations understand how their properties have been valued and whether the information appears consistent with current property details. Early awareness supports planning and budgeting, especially for businesses with larger portfolios.
Once the draft list is published, ratepayers can review their property entries to confirm that the information used by the VOA is accurate. Examples include floor areas, layout, use and any relevant changes since the last revaluation.
This period before April 2026 provides an opportunity to identify issues early. If something does not appear correct, it is possible to raise queries or seek clarification before the list goes live.
At Inform, we specialise in reviewing historic business rates bills to confirm whether valuations and liabilities have been calculated correctly. Our auditors review each property in detail, check historic entries against available evidence and, where appropriate, support the recovery of overpayments.
Understanding the draft list is an important step in preparing for future liabilities, and many organisations choose to review historic data at the same time to ensure past costs have been accurate. A historic audit provides reassurance that previous valuations and bills have been independently checked and that any discrepancies have been identified.
If you would like to discuss a no obligation review of your business rates bills, call Inform on 0161 669 8161.
