Query about commercial rates

samdavis

Hi all, I took the plunge and opened my own business 2 months ago. I've found this forum to be extremely helpful (although up until now I've only been following posts and not actually posting). Business is going well, but I have yet to take a wage. Last week I had a visit from the Rates dept. of the county council. On the advice of my accountant I asked about a possible reduction in rates (currently 10,000 euro a year) and hit a blank wall. He said he does not have the authority to reduce rates, and it was not open to discussion.
So, my question is this, has anyone on Boards managed to get a reduction in their rates? We currently use only half of the premises, and I would be open to renting out the other half. The county council guy said that to avoid paying rates on the unused half, it has to advertised with an agency. I'm fine with that, although my plan was to put a sign on the building with my number.
I have invested all my savings in this venture, and it's frustrating that money that could be used on advertising, fixing up the building etc. has to be handed over to the c.c. for imo nothing.
I do realise that rates have to be paid, the building we are renting has been empty for some years now, and I honestly thought that the c.c. would be open to discussion on the rates, would be happy to see a new business in the area, would be helpful etc, but no. All I got was 'you can pay monthly if you can't pay it upfront.'
I realise that everyone in business is affected by rates, just wanted to get some feedback on your own experience. Thanks:)

91011

The only way to get rates reduced is to have the premises revalued. - This also gives a risk of higher rates too.

Rates are a statutory instrument and cannot be reduced on a case basis. (talk to Carlow Town Centre Traders who have the highest raes in the country!!) t

Maradunny

Hi Samdavis,
My reply may be too late however, The county council guy was correct in that you can seek vacancy relief for unoccupied property that is available to let.What he may not have told you was that the property must be available to let on the date the 'rate is strucl' by the county council. The rate is usually struck in January of each year as part of the Council's budgetary obligations.
Unfortunately, the only way to have the property revalued is if the property has had a " Material Change of Circumstances". This normally requires physical changes to the property have taken place which affects the rental value.
You may pm me for further information if you wish , My company specialises in rateable valuations.

Zonua

I wonder would www.cpssurveyors.ie be able to be of any help?

I made their website, but haven't used their services before.