Business rates appeal decisions accelerate as VOA capacity improves
Business rates appeal decisions are accelerating as VOA capacity improves – Landlords are encouraged to act while processing times are reduced.
Valuation Officers across England and Wales have now completed their national revaluation for the forthcoming 2026 Rating List. The deadline for completing the mammoth task of revaluing circa 2.15 million commercial properties across England and Wales was Friday 27th June.
The draft list is now being compiled and is expected to be finalised before its official publication latest December 2025.
With the revaluation work now complete, more Valuation Officers are expected to return to specific Rating appeal duties, significantly boosting capacity. As a result, an uptick in appeal decisions is anticipated, helping to reduce the extensive backlog.
This presents a timely opportunity for property owners and occupiers. Businesses who believe their property has been incorrectly assessed are encouraged to submit an appeal now, as it is likely to be processed more quickly than in recent years.
The increased resources and focus on appeals mark a positive shift in the business rates appeals’ landscape, with improved response times expected to benefit both landlords and occupiers alike.
The appeal submission deadline for the current 2023 Rating List is 31st March 2026, so with just over 8 months to go until the deadline, businesses that have not had their assessments reviewed should look to do so before the opportunity to challenge their rates charge is lost.
Please contact us for a free appraisal of your situation, and to find out how much you could save.
