AAA Change text size and contrast

In this section you will find information on:

• changes to small business rate relief from 1 October 2010
• who needs to pay business rates
• how to calculate your business rates bill
• how to pay your business rates
• how to find out if your business qualifies for business rate reliefs
• how we rate unoccupied properties
• help if you are having payment difficulties
• how to make a business rate appeal

Business rates change of circumstance forms

Please complete and return the forms below to notify us when you start the occupation of a business premises or vacate your business premises:

• Notification of occupation
• Notification of vacation

About business rates

Businesses and other occupiers of non-domestic properties pay non-domestic rates (often known as business rates) to directly contribute towards the costs of council services.

The council collects non-domestic rates, which are then pooled by the Government, and redistributed back to local councils. This money, together with revenue from council tax collection and Government grants, is used to pay for the services provided by your council and other local authorities such as the County Council and police in your area.

2010 Revaluation

Every five years the Valuation Office Agency carries out a revaluation of all the rateable values in England and Wales.  The current revaluation comes into force from 1 April 2010 with the introduction of the 2010 Rating List.  For further information on the revaluation process a fact sheet is available at Business Rates 2010 revaluation.  For advice on finding a professional rating agent a leaflet can be downloaded from the right of the page.

Business rates contact:

If you would like further information, please contact us using the contact details below

South Oxfordshire District Council 
Business Rates
PO Box 162
Erith
DA8 9DS

Tel: 0845 300 5562
Fax: 020 83152087
email: sodc.businessrates@secure.capita.co.uk

The council's revenues and benefits service, which includes business rates, is provided by the council's contractors Capita Local Government Services.

Change in circumstances

Please let us know if you have moved house, changed your name, or have other changes in your circumstances.

Further information on business rates and the rating system

• The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has produced a Guide to Business Rates which explains the non-domestic rating system.
• www.businesslink.gov.uk is a website aimed at offering practical advice to businesses.