Business rates are calculated using the rateable value of your property, set by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). These valuations are based on property details such as size, layout and use. While the process is designed to be accurate, small errors or outdated information can lead to businesses paying more than they should.
Valuations are often based on historic data. Over time, changes such as refurbishments, partial occupations or alterations to the property may not be fully reflected in the rating list. Even small discrepancies in floor area or use can affect the rateable value and, in turn, the amount billed by the council.
In some cases, changes to a property may have been reported but not updated correctly in the system. When managing multiple sites, it can be difficult to identify where and when these differences have occurred.
A modest difference in valuation can seem insignificant at first, but when multiplied across financial years, it can result in thousands of pounds in overpaid rates. For larger portfolios, the cumulative effect can be substantial.
Because rates are often paid automatically by finance teams, these discrepancies can go unnoticed until a detailed audit takes place.
Inform specialises in reviewing historic business rates data to confirm that each property has been valued and billed correctly. Our audit process cross-checks valuation data, list entries and billing history to identify and resolve any discrepancies.
Where overpayments are found, we work with the relevant authorities to recover funds on your behalf, ensuring your organisation only pays what it should.
An independent audit provides clarity and reassurance that historic valuations have been reviewed accurately. With property costs under increasing scrutiny, having confidence in your data helps protect budgets and support financial certainty.
Even if you’ve previously tried to claim this discount without success, we’ve achieved positive outcomes in many similar cases. By combining our specialist analysts, advanced software, and access to stronger comparable data, we’re often able to secure results where others haven’t.
If you would like to confirm that your property valuations are correct, please contact Inform on 0161 669 8161 for a no-obligation review.
