The Valuation Officer has to maintain the Valuation List and may alter the rateable value if he or she believes that the circumstances of the property have changed.
The Ratepayer (and certain others who may have an interest in the property) can also appeal against the rateable value shown in the list if they believe it is wrong.
Rating advisors
Ratepayers do not have to be represented in discussions about their rateable value or their rates bill. Appeals against rateable values can be made free of charge. However ratepayers who do wish to be represented should be aware that members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS-website: www.rics.org.uk) and the Institue of Revenues Rating and Valuation (IRRV-website: www.irrv.org.uk) are qualified and regulated by rules of professional conduct designed to protect the public from misconduct. Before employing a rating advisor, you should check that he or she has the necessary knowledge and expertise as well as the appropriate indemnity insurance. Take great care and if necessary seek further advice before entering into a contract.
Further information on the grounds for making an appeal and on how to make one can be found on the VOA website: www.voa.gov.uk and at the ODPM website: www.local.odpm.gov.uk/finance/busrats/guide/index.htm
