Business rates appeals plummet, sparking call for system reform

The latest statistics from the Valuation Office Agency’s 'Check, Challenge, Appeal' business rates system show a 97 per cent drop in the number of businesses challenging their rates bills in the last two years in England, compared to the two years following the previous revaluation.  

"These latest figures prove yet again that the Check, Challenge, Appeal (CCA) system needs to be urgently reformed," said FSB national chairman Mike Cherry. 

Rolled out at the same time as 2017’s revaluation, Mr Cherry warned that the current CCA system forces time-pressed small firms, already having to deal with unfair revaluations, to try and navigate the complicated platform.

"Many simply don’t have the time or money to bring together a case using the overly complicated system, risking financial penalties if they challenge them.

"With the number of challenges registered by businesses in England dropping by 97 per cent since the system was launched, it’s clearly not working. Businesses are walking away from the system, meaning thousands are potentially paying the wrong business rates bill," said Mr Cherry. 

According to Mr Cherry, the system needs to make sure businesses understand what they are being charged for so they can make a sensible judgement about whether to appeal or not.

"It must make sure smaller businesses know how their rates bills are calculated without having to lodge a formal complaint. There must also be a reduced evidence burden placed on them at the initial stages if they appeal their bills.

"Small businesses cannot afford a system in disarray," he concluded.