Business rates

Business rates are the way those who occupy non domestic buildings contribute to the cost of local services. They are also known as non-domestic rates. We collect these rates and keep a percentage. 

The business rate is calculated by multiplying the rateable value of property by the standard or small business rating multiplier. The government sets the rating multiplier. For 2020-2021 the multiplier rates are: 

• small business multiplier: 49.9p
• standard multiplier: 51.2p

The Valuation Office Agency assess the rateable value of a property. They usually revaluate every 5 years and the rateable value and multiplier are updated from this. The next Rating List is due to come into force on 1 April 2023. 

You can pay your business rates online and manage your account through OpenAshfield. 

Letting us know about starting and ending occupation

You can let us know when you start occupying premises, or when you end occupation using the forms in the related documents section of this web page. 

Completed forms should be returned by: 

• email: businessrates@ashfield.gov.uk

Business rates relief

There is extra help available for businesses due to coronavirus. The Rate Relief for Pubs has also been opened again for 2020/2021 (1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021). 

You may be able to get help through one of the business rate relief schemes. We manage: 

• Small Business Rate Relief
• Rural Rate Relief
• Charitable Rate Relief
• Community Amateur Sports Club relief
• Hardship Relief
• Retail Discount
• Transitional Relief
• Local Newspaper Relief. 

For many of the schemes we will contact you if you are eligible and you do not have to apply. 

Empty or partially occupied properties

You do not have to pay business rates on empty properties for up to 3 months. There is more information on this and on extended relief on the Gov.UK website. 

If part of your property is not being used and is completely unoccupied we may be able to offer a reduction on your rates. You will need to write to us and show: 

• a detailed plan of the premises showing clearly which areas are currently occupied and which are unoccupied
• the date that the part-occupation commenced and when it is expected to cease
• the reason why the part-occupation became necessary
• whether there is any intention to sublet or sell the unoccupied area
• whether any machinery or equipment will be stored in this area
• any other information in support of your claim.

Exempt properties

Some types of property are exempt from paying business rates. These include: 

• farm land and agricultural buildings
• churches
• certain properties used by people with disabilities
• property situated within an Enterprise Zone, such as Sherwood Business Park
• public parks
• moveable moorings
• sewers. 

Latest business rates news

Ministerial Statement 27 January 2020

Expanded Retail Discount increased to 100% for 2020/21 for eligible Retail, Leisure and Hospitality businesses in response to the Covid-19 crisis. 

Pub Discount will provide a discount of up to £1,000 to eligible pubs with a rateable value of less than 100,000. This is in addition to any Retail Discount the pub may already receive, subject to State Aid rules.

Ways to contact us about business rates

If you have questions about business rates, or paying your business rates, you can contact us by: 

• online form
• email: businessrates@ashfield.gov.uk 
• telephone: 01623 457200
• post: 

Business Rates
Ashfield District Council
Urban Road
Kirkby in Ashfield
Nottingham
NG17 8DA