Industrial buildings and Business rates.

[CoffeeCup]

I found out today that an *unoccupied* warehouse or factory is not liable for Business Rates ....... Is this correct?

If so, what is the position if the upper floor can be used as an office?

Can't really see why the local authority would not be entitled to their 50%, as would be the case with as shop.

[Editor]

The rules say as below, but you should check with your local authority for a definitive answer on your property.
Factories, warehouses, manufacturing and repair workshops are exempt from paying business rates when unoccupied.
Shops, offices and premises where a part of the premises has been constructed or adapted to include any retail provision of goods or services will be charged at 50%.
Liability falls upon the owner, defined as "the person or Company entitled to possession".

[SteveP]

Ah, well that is one reason why there are Chartered Surveyors who specialise in nothing but ratings.

I rarely recommend a competitor, but since my firm does not deal with ratings I can gladly suggest contacting Andrew Warde, who is the Rating Division Director at Nelson Bakewell (020 7544 2000) or one of his team. They work nationally.

I am told that large numbers of businesses pay more than they need to in business rates and I understand Andrew and his team charge a percentage of what they save the client, so if they don't save you money they don't charge you anything.

Tell him he owes Steve Palmer a beer :D