Empty properties

An empty property with a rateable value of less than £2,600 is exempt from  Business Rates

If the property is an industrial unit, it is exempt from Business Rates for 6 months from the date of vacation. After the 6 month rate-free period expires the full rates are payable.

If the property is a non-industrial unit, it is exempt from Business Rates for 3 months from the date of vacation. After the 3 month rate-free period expires the full rates are payable.

Properties that are exempt on the grounds that they are empty:

• If the owner is entitled to possession of the property only as the personal representative of someone who has died.
• If the owner is a liquidator or a trustee under a deed of arrangement or the owner is subject to a bankruptcy order, or as a company is subject to winding up order or an administration order.
• If the property is a listed building or the subject of a building preservation notice or it is scheduled as an ancient monument.
• If a property is kept empty because action is being taken by or on behalf of the Crown or any local or public authority with a view to preventing occupation or acquiring the building.
• If occupation is prohibited by law.
• Unoccupied properties owned and likely to be next occupied by charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs.